Transportation Commission

Transportation Commission District One

As a proud New Mexico native, John grew up in Las Vegas, NM, and graduated from Las Vegas Robertson High School.

John brings a wealth of experience to this role, having dedicated 28 years to state government with the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), primarily serving in Districts 4 and 5. His last seven years with NMDOT were spent as the District Five Engineer, where he made significant contributions to NMDOT and our State.

In addition to his extensive public service, John has over 15 years of experience in the private sector as a consultant engineer and project manager within New Mexico’s transportation field. He is a registered and licensed Professional Engineer in New Mexico and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from New Mexico State University (NMSU).

John is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Concrete Institute, the American Society of Civil Engineers, the NMSU Academy of Civil Engineers, and the Las Cruces Utilities Board of Commissioners.

Transportation Commission District Two

A fourth-generation Lea County New Mexican and licensed Professional Engineer with more than 40 years of experience, Hicks is president and CEO of Pettigrew & Associates, which she purchased in 1990. Her career spans infrastructure, roadways, utilities, airports, and industrial development projects across the state. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a minor in economics from New Mexico State University and has been recognized by the State of New Mexico for contributions to economic development.

Transportation Commission District Four

Walter Adams is a native of Las Vegas, NM. He worked for the New Mexico Department of Transportation (DOT) for over forty years, beginning in 1977 as a Highway Maintainer 1 in a survey crew. He left District 4 in 2003 as an Area Maintenance Supervisor. In 2004 he began work out of the General Office in Santa Fe as a Quality Coordinator. Most recently, Walter served as Employee Support Coordinator. This position provided him with the opportunity to visit communities throughout the state boosting agency communication, promoting and recognizing best practices within the DOT, and ensuring that employees had access to resources that address their concerns and inquiries.

Walter’s career in public service began as a substitute teacher and coach for local district and intramural sports. He brings to the Commission more than 15 years of experience serving on public boards. Walter was elected to the West Las Vegas Schools Board in 1993 where he served three consecutive, four-year terms. He was later appointed to a six-year term on the New Mexico Highlands University Board of Regents.

Over the course of his career, Walter has played active roles in major infrastructure projects ranging from facility upgrades to the construction of new, public facilities. Among his most notable accomplishments is raising two children Walter Jr. and Leann with his wife, Romie, of 40 years. They also enjoy the pleasure of spoiling four grandchildren – Abby, Santino, Keanna and Gia.

Transportation Commission District Five

Born 5/2/48
Wife, Bev of 51 years, and four wonderful offspring Tara, Tyson, Tennille, Thomas, and 6 grandchildren.
Life time resident of Farmington New Mexico.

Professional / Current

Self employed, Real Estate management and Investments

Other Things I am doing now

4 Corners Economic Development Broadband Committee Chair
San Juan Symphony Board of Directors
New Mexico Amigos
Farmington Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee Chair
Leadership New Mexico,  annual leadership presentation

Transportation Commission District Six

Born 9-4-1962 in Durango Colorado; residing in Gallup New Mexico for 60+ years.

Married in 2011 to my better half, Tery, from Estancia.

Self-employed, operating New Mexico family businesses established in 1972.

Served on various boards and commissions at the state, county, and local levels.

Current Associations/Boards

Great Gallup Economic Development Board

New Mexico Amigos

Catalpa Hills Water Assn.