Jared W. Perdue, P.E., stands as a prominent Leader Of The Department Of Transportation in Florida, a role he assumed as Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) on April 7, 2022, following his appointment by Governor Ron DeSantis. In this crucial position, Perdue is at the helm of the state agency responsible for the comprehensive planning and strategic development of Florida’s transportation network. His leadership is vital in ensuring a safe, efficient, and interconnected transportation system that caters to the diverse needs of all regions within the state, harmonizing various transportation modes for seamless connectivity.
Perdue’s career trajectory is deeply rooted in public service, entirely within the FDOT. His journey commenced through the Professional Engineer Training Program in FDOT District Three, a foundational experience that ignited his dedication to serving the people of Florida. His ascent through various leadership roles within the Department has provided him with an in-depth understanding of virtually every facet of Florida’s intricate transportation system and its impact on local communities. Throughout his tenure, Perdue has been instrumental in both operational and developmental aspects of transportation. He has held significant positions including District Geotechnical Engineer, District Traffic Operations Engineer, and District Design Engineer, showcasing his versatile expertise. His breadth of experience extends across diverse transportation modes, encompassing spaceports, multi-use trails, and notably, his role as CEO of SunRail, a regional commuter rail system.
Most recently, a significant undertaking under Secretary Perdue’s guidance is the implementation of Governor DeSantis’s ambitious Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative. This landmark investment in Florida’s transportation infrastructure is designed to proactively address the challenges posed by the state’s rapid population growth. The initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance safety measures across the transportation network, bolster the resilience of infrastructure against future challenges, and strengthen Florida’s crucial supply chain statewide. This initiative underscores his commitment as a leader of the department of transportation to future-proof Florida’s infrastructure.
Since becoming Secretary, Perdue has articulated a clear vision for the FDOT, emphasizing the construction of a safer, stronger, and more resilient multimodal transportation system, placing Florida’s communities at the heart of all endeavors. Recognizing the direct correlation between transportation and the quality of life for Floridians in a rapidly growing state, Secretary Perdue is dedicated to ensuring FDOT’s infrastructure effectively serves both residents and visitors, now and in the years to come. His approach prioritizes collaboration with communities, ensuring transportation developments align with local visions and needs. Under his direction, the Department remains steadfast in its commitment to prioritizing safety, striving towards a goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries. Furthermore, his leadership fosters the enhancement of the transportation network, encourages innovative solutions, and cultivates strong partnerships, all aimed at maintaining Florida’s position as a national leader of the department of transportation and in the broader transportation sector.
Secretary Perdue’s academic foundation is a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina. He is married to Brandis and is the father of five daughters.
