Matthew Tucker

Global Transit Market Sector Director

HDR

As HDR’s Global Transit Director, Matt Tucker sets the strategic vision for a team of over 650 employees delivering a diverse portfolio of services tailored to the design and delivery of bus, streetcar, commuter rail, light rail, subway, and inter-city passenger rail projects and programs worldwide.

Matt draws on his extensive executive-level public sector experience to advise transit agencies on industry trends and best practices to enhance transit service, safety, and operation. He partners with agencies to think beyond an individual project and consider how public transportation can holistically support community goals, improve quality of life, and foster economic prosperity. Matt’s background spans key industry areas like public-private partnerships, transportation demand management, integrated corridor planning, and operations. With more than 35 years’ experience, he remains active in the transit industry through his professional association involvement in the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO), and through his ongoing commitment to sharing knowledge and insights with peers across the industry.  

Prior to joining HDR in 2023, Matt spent 15 years serving as the CEO of the North County (San Diego) Transit District (NCTD). During his tenure, NCTD constructed a downtown COASTER rail station, established a robust real estate development program, replaced its fleet with new locomotives, and advanced the agency’s transition to zero emissions bus fleets. Prior to NCTD, he was the executive director of the Virginia Department of Rail & Public Transportation (VDRPT), chief operating officer of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), deputy public transit director for Phoenix, and deputy general manager of the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC). Matt has also held several appointments for APTA, including as chair for APTA’s Legislative Committee.