Transportation Commission Members

Transportation Commission District One

Commissioner Sisneros brings a unique perspective to the NMDOT as the newly appointed District One Commissioner. She has deep roots in the NMDOT as well as the community of Las Cruces.

Her father, grandfather, and great grandfather all worked for the Department of Transportation. Early in her educational career she pursued a degree in Engineering, however later transitioned to elementary education and is now a 3rd grade elementary teacher. 

Commissioner Sisneros holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from New Mexico State University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Higher Education Administration at her alma mater.

“I am honored to serve as a commissioner on the State Transportation Commission,” said Commissioner Sisneros. “My commitment to education and community development directly reflects my dedication to enhancing the quality of life in New Mexico. I hope to continue this commitment through improved transportation infrastructure and services.”

Transportation Commission District Two

District 2 Commissioner Gary Tonjes (pronounced tawn-Jess) will represent the southeast corner of the state. He grew up in Albuquerque and graduated from Eastern New Mexico University in Portales with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications/Marketing. Commissioner Tonjes has an extensive background in advocating for communities, economic prosperity, and local businesses. He has worked for the Roswell Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Chambers of Commerce in Odessa TX and Joplin MO, before becoming President of the Albuquerque Economic Development, Inc., where he served for 25 years. He retired in 2020.

He and his wife Leann live in Ruidoso, and they enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring every corner of New Mexico. They have three children and two grandchildren.

Transportation Commission District Three

Hilma Chynoweth has spent most of her career in the fields of economic development and commercial real estate. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and an M.A. in English, both from the University of New Mexico. She is currently Director of Business Development for the Garcia Automotive Group in Albuquerque. Her areas of interest are diverse and include workforce development, communications and marketing, as well as promoting the arts and culture of New Mexico. She serves on the board of Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum and the New Mexico chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. Her most successful endeavor to date has been collaborating with her husband of 28 years, Jim Chynoweth, in raising four productive children. Some of her favorite activities involve enjoying the tremendous beauty in New Mexico while hiking, bicycling, and exploring its back roads and small towns.

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

Charles Lundstrom is a former Senior Manager with the New Mexico Environment Department. He is a Certified Safety Professional and now a professional Educator. He loves coaching Kids and Outdoor Activities.