Chris Holman welcomes Palencia Mobley, P.E,, founder and CEO of Mode Collective, Detroit area. She's the former deputy director and chief engineer of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department and has been appointed as chair of the Michigan Infrastructure Council (MIC).Watch Palencia and Chris discuss her career path, new role as Chair, and scope of work for the Michigan Infrastructure Council, in the YouTube video shared below:

Chris had several questions for Palencia:
Can you explain what the Michigan Infrastructure Council does and its role in the state? 

How will your past experience in infrastructure contribute to your role as chair of the MIC? 

What is asset management and why is it important? 

How does MIC work with local communities to address their infrastructure needs?

What impact does MIC hope to have on Michigan's infrastructure in the coming years?

There was also a news release at the time of her appointment:

New Appointments Will Help Drive Michigan's Collaborative and Interconnected Infrastructure Systems to Create a Thriving, Sustainable and Prosperous State

LANSING, Mich.— The Michigan Infrastructure Council (MIC) recently announced it has appointed Palencia Mobley, P.E., founder and CEO of Mode Collective, as chair. In this role, Mobley (left) will lead the MIC in fostering greater collaboration and partnerships among stakeholders to develop innovative solutions, secure funding for critical projects, and ensure Michigan’s infrastructure remains resilient and sustainable for future generations. Mobley was appointed to the MIC by Governor Whitmer in 2018 and will serve as chair through Dec. 31, 2026.

“As a firm believer in the power of infrastructure to drive economic growth and enhance quality of life, I am honored to lead MIC in addressing the critical challenges facing our communities,” Mobley said. “With a focus on equity, innovation, and collaboration, I am committed to advancing our mission and ensuring that Michigan is a place where people can live, work and raise a family today and tomorrow. I am eager to leverage my experience and expertise to lead the organization in addressing the complex challenges of our state’s infrastructure.”

Mobley will oversee and implement an asset management strategy for the state's infrastructure systems. Her strategic vision, combined with her deep understanding of infrastructure, will drive positive change and pave the way for a safer, more sustainable and equitable Michigan.

“Palencia brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise in infrastructure asset management that will be instrumental in leading MIC as we work to improve the state’s asset management system,” said MIC Executive Director Ryan Laruwe. “Her commitment to promoting equity and inclusion in infrastructure planning and development is commendable, and we believe her visionary leadership will drive meaningful progress in addressing disparities and ensuring access to essential infrastructure services for all Michiganders.” 

The MIC also announced today that it has welcomed two new members, Chuck Marshall and Doug Matthews. Marshall was appointed by Speaker Joe Tate and Matthews was appointed by Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks. Both members will serve through Dec. 31, 2026. Marshall is vice president of transmission planning for ITC Holdings Corp. and Matthews is assistant city manager for the City of Grand Rapids.

The MIC is comprised of nine appointed voting members who are representative of one or more of the following: (1) asset management experts from the public and private sectors with knowledge of and expertise in the areas of planning, design, construction, management, operations and maintenance for drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, transportation, energy, and communications, (2) financial and procurement experts from the public or private sector, and (3) experts in regional asset management planning across jurisdictions and infrastructure sectors.

To learn more information about the Michigan Infrastructure Council, please visit www.michigan.gov/mic.

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