E-ZPass and Beyond: A Professional Journey

ABSTRACT

In this seminar, Rick will share the story of his diverse and dynamic career, which spans over 35 years and includes roles as a structural engineer for nuclear power plants, mechanical engineer, software developer, Director of IT, and operations leader in consulting engineering firms. Drawing on his experiences across multiple disciplines, Rick will highlight the pivotal role his education at Stevens Institute of Technology played in shaping his success.

A central focus of the seminar will be Rick’s extensive work with E-ZPass, where he has contributed to the system’s development and operations for over three decades. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the lessons he’s learned along the way—lessons in innovation, leadership, and navigating complex challenges in engineering and tolling operations.

BIOGRAPHY

Rick Gobeille, PE graduated from Stevens Institute of Technology in 1980 with a BE in Civil Engineering and an ME in Mechanical Engineering in 1983. He was an early adopter of computer technology, designing nuclear power plants, district heating systems, and developing construction cost-estimating software. As Director of IT, he negotiated Autodesk/Softdesk’s first IBM-PC software site licenses, helping lead Vollmer Associates into the computer age.

Building on these skills, Rick played a key role in the development and implementation of the E-ZPass system across the Northeast U.S. He has also contributed to toll road studies that supported over $40 billion in infrastructure projects, including the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge in New York. He currently serves as Senior Principal Engineer at Stantec.