Priya Jain was sworn in as the Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation on March 30, following unanimous confirmation by the full New Jersey State Senate on March 23. Jain becomes the 21st chief executive to lead the department and had served in an acting capacity since her nomination by Governor Sherrill on January 19.
Jain will oversee a transportation network that serves millions across New Jersey. In addition to her role at NJDOT, she will serve as Chair for New Jersey Transit, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, and the South Jersey Transportation Authority.
According to NJDOT officials, Jain is “committed to delivering an affordable, reliable, and modern transportation system through collaboration, practical problem solving, and disciplined delivery.” Her approach emphasizes community-centered solutions using innovative technology and data-driven decision making.
Jain brings more than thirty years of experience leading complex transportation and infrastructure programs. She began her career as a civil and environmental engineer before moving into leadership roles at companies such as Mace Consult—where she was President of Americas—and Atlas, where she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer. She also held senior positions at Atkins and CH2M. Earlier in her career, Jain worked on the original ARC Tunnel project in New Jersey.
In addition to her professional work, Jain serves on several boards including those for AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials), NASTO (Northeast Association of State Transportation Officials), and The Eastern Transportation Coalition. She is also involved with academic service as an Advisory Board Member for Civil Engineering at City College of New York.
Jain holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and master’s degrees in physics from Birla Institute of Technology & Science Pilani as well as environmental engineering from University of New York at Buffalo.
