Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute

Staff Bio

Chris Padilla
Program Director - TLN
Cell: (701)202-5730
Email: chris.padilla@ndsu.edu

Chris Padilla is the Program Director for the Transportation Learning Network (TLN) at UGPTI, leading efforts to advance innovation and excellence in transportation education. TLN is a collaborative partnership among four Departments of Transportation and the members of the Center for Transformative Infrastructure Preservation and Sustainability (CTIPS). As the premier resource for supplemental learning in the transportation field, TLN delivers high-quality, technology-driven training to professionals nationwide.

With a deep commitment to knowledge transfer, Chris works closely with TLN members to develop and deliver cutting-edge training, including research-driven presentations that bridge the gap between academia and real-world transportation challenges.

Before joining UGPTI, Chris spent 13 years with the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), where he held key roles in Design, Planning & Programming, Maintenance, and Construction. He played a pivotal role in the development and implementation of the NDDOT Maintenance Academy and the NDDOT Rotational Training Program, ensuring the next generation of transportation professionals was equipped for success.

Chris also brings a wealth of field experience, having worked at the Pennsylvania DOT as a construction inspector for three years. His foundation in discipline and leadership was shaped by five years of active-duty service in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served the nation.

Through strategic leadership and a passion for continuous learning, Chris is dedicated to driving innovation, expanding access to high-quality education, and shaping the future of transportation workforce development.

Employment

  • 2013-Present, Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute, NDSU
  • 2000-2013, North Dakota Department of Transportation
  • 1997-2000, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
  • 1992-1997, United States Army

Education

  • B.S., Applied Science and Technology, Dickinson State University, 2008
  • A.S., Engineering Technology, Lincoln Technical Institute, 1992

Professional Memberships/Affiliations

  • AASHTO Technical Training Solutions Member
  • ATSSA Member
  • APWA Member
  • AMVETS Honor Guard and Lifetime Membership
  • DAV Lifetime Member
  • Certified CrossFit Trainer & Mobility Certified Trainer
  • USA Weightlifting Advanced Sports Performance Coach
  • Apple Creek Township Road Supervisor (2005-07)