Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas Highway Commission has appointed Jared D. Wiley as the new Director of the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), a decision made at an executive meeting on December 4, 2024. Wiley will officially take over the role on January 10, 2025, succeeding Lorie H. Tudor upon her retirement.
A Legacy of Leadership
Jared Wiley has been a part of ARDOT for nearly two decades, starting as an Engineering Student Intern and moving through the ranks to become Chief Engineer for Preconstruction since April 2023. His extensive experience within the department and deep understanding of Arkansas’ transportation needs poised him as a fitting successor to Director Tudor.
Chairman Alec Farmer expressed confidence in Wiley’s leadership capabilities, stating, “The Department is very fortunate to have a deep pool of highly qualified talent to choose from in selecting the next director. We know that Jared will do an excellent job leading ARDOT and the entire team. The Commission looks forward to working with him in this new role.”
Commitment to Excellence
Upon his appointment, Wiley expressed his dedication to continue the legacy of cooperation and collaboration that Tudor established. “I am humbled and honored by the trust the Commission has shown in me. I commit to building on the legacy of cooperation and collaboration that was established by my mentor, Director Tudor. She has taught me and our staff many things over her 41-year career. ARDOT is blessed with a great staff of dedicated public servants. The entire ARDOT team will continue to work diligently to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of Arkansas’ transportation system,” Wiley stated.
Professional Journey
Wiley’s journey at ARDOT saw him handling significant responsibilities, including overseeing the Department’s traffic count and roadway inventory programs and serving as a Consultant Coordinator. His progression continued as he took on roles such as Assistant Division Head of the Transportation Planning and Policy Division and Division Head of Program Management before becoming the Assistant Chief Engineer for Planning and then Chief Engineer for Preconstruction.
Wiley holds a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering with an emphasis in civil engineering from Arkansas State University and is a Registered Professional Engineer. His technical background and comprehensive experience within ARDOT have equipped him with the skills necessary to lead the department through its future challenges and innovations.
Continuing a Tradition
As Wiley prepares to become the sixth person to serve as the Department’s Director in the past 52 years, his focus will be on continuing to enhance the state’s infrastructure effectively and efficiently, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of the millions who travel in and through Arkansas each year.
