Toks Omishakin is the Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA), where he leads one of the worlds largest transportation systems. His career has centered on creating equitable, safe, and sustainable infrastructure, previously serving as Director of Caltrans and holding leadership roles at the Tennessee Department of Transportation. He earned a masters degree from Jackson State University.
Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, to Nigerian immigrant parents, Omishakins work is grounded in community focus and public service. In a recent interview, he mentioned that he initially went to college primarily interested in playing basketball before his parents, who worked in academia, encouraged him to pursue engineering and planning. He and his wife have two children.
He is the first African American in Californias history to serve as both Director of Caltrans and Secretary of CalSTA.
Toks Omishakin
Director of Healthy Living Initiatives at Office of the Mayor
La Vergne, Tennessee, United States
Overview
Topics They Care About
Transportation Equity
A core tenet of his leadership, focusing on correcting past harms of infrastructure projects and ensuring equitable access for all communities, particularly through recent state investments.
Active Transportation
A long-standing proponent of creating walkable, bikeable communities and integrating these modes into transportation planning, dating back to his work in Nashville and as chair of AASHTO's Council on Active Transportation.
Climate Action
He champions policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable infrastructure, zero-emission vehicles, and creating a multimodal transportation system to meet California's climate goals.
Media Appearances
Toks has no verified media appearances
Work History
3-2010
Director of Healthy Living Initiatives at Office of the Mayor
12-2008 - 3-2010
Multimodal Transportation Coordinator at Office of the Mayor
7-2002 - 12-2008
Senior Planner at Metro Planning Commission
Education
MURP from Jackson State University
More Information
Social Presence :
Prographics :
Exp : 23
Location : La Vergne, Tennessee, United States
Job Level : Mid-senior
Designation : Director of Healthy Living Initiatives at Office of the Mayor
