Diana Gomez honored with Ronald E Brummett Lifetime Achievement Award in Kern County

The 2024 Kern Council of Governments Regional Awards of Merit Ceremony celebrated significant contributions to transportation and community development in Kern County, California, on April 24, 2025. Among the honorees was Diana Gomez, the Caltrans District 6 Director, who received the prestigious Ronald E. Brummett Lifetime Achievement Award for a public official.

Diana Gomez has played a pivotal role in overseeing the state highway system across several counties, including Fresno, Madera, Kings, Tulare, and Kern. Her leadership has led to the successful delivery of major capital projects, resulting in millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements. With over 25 years of experience at Caltrans, Gomez has held various positions, including senior transportation electrical engineer and deputy district director of operations in Los Angeles. Her commitment to transparency and stakeholder communication has been instrumental in keeping the community informed about project progress.

In her acceptance speech, Gomez expressed gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged the support of her family, highlighting her journey into transportation, which began unexpectedly after a change in career plans. She reflected on her early projects in Bakersfield, including the reconstruction of Rosedale Highway, and emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving successful transportation initiatives.

Gomez also addressed her tenure at the California High-Speed Rail Authority, noting the challenges faced in implementing the state's first high-speed electric passenger operations. She underscored the significance of collaboration with local stakeholders to navigate controversies and ensure that community needs are met.

As she transitions to the next phase of her career, Gomez reaffirmed her dedication to improving transportation in the Central Valley, emphasizing the need for a robust transportation network to benefit all communities, particularly smaller towns.

The ceremony not only recognized Gomez's achievements but also highlighted the ongoing efforts of local leaders to enhance the quality of life in Kern County through effective transportation solutions. The event served as a reminder of the critical role that dedicated public officials play in shaping the future of regional infrastructure and community development.