Scott Smith is the CEO of Valley Metro responsible for the planning, design, construction and operation of an expanding regional transit network in metro Phoenix, Arizona. The Valley Metro system is a partnership of 18 cities, towns and Maricopa County, offering bus, light rail, paratransit and vanpool services to 67 million riders annually. Smith’s leadership is a continuation of his public service as the former Mayor of Mesa and president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Smith’s passion for public transportation stems from his belief that transportation infrastructure is critically important to the regional, state and national economy and to improving the quality of life for those who need and choose transit as their mobility option. He has extensive private sector experience as a certified public accountant, lawyer and CEO of a regional homebuilding and development company.