Leading the Way Alumni Spotlight: Karissa Miller

Name: Karissa Miller
Cohort: 17
Graduation Year: 2020
Current Position: National Account Manager, Pacific GeoSource

Since graduating from the Transportation Institute at the University of Denver (DTI) with Cohort 17, Karissa Miller has stepped into a new role as national account manager with Pacific GeoSource (PGS). In this role, she is working closely with the intermodal side of the business. In particular, she is focused on the importance of time. PGS’ success in reducing construction time and minimizing operational interruptions resonates well with its owner and operator customers, especially in the last year and a half.

“Construction definitely challenges and limits operations. I have enjoyed working with owners to help reduce the impact on capacity and throughput,” Miller said.

Regarding her student experience, Miller says that Cohort 17 is keeping in touch. This is especially important since the group was the first to experience pandemic-related conditions. Although the annual international travel seminar was canceled, the cohort is planning a reunion as soon as travel guidelines allow.

Memories of their student experience help the group maintain its bonds of friendship.

“I always looked forward to seeing everyone in Cohort 17 during the residencies. Our cohort usually tried to plan an event together either before or after each residency. Going to a DU hockey game was one of the most fun nights we had as a group!” Miller recalled.

Going forward, Miller plans to stay involved with the institute. She currently serves on an ad hoc alumni council, which is helping staff create meaningful programming and gathering opportunities for the 300 DTI graduates. The value, she notes, “…is in the network and wealth of industry knowledge at DTI.”