Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between COMTO National and COMTO Indiana?

COMTO is a national organization headquartered in Washington DC. The organization includes a national Board of Directors and 39 COMTO Chapter organizations located across the country. COMTO Indiana shares in the mission of the national organization with a focus on local matters in the state of Indiana.

Do I have to belong to both or can I belong to just one?

Your membership in COMTO Indiana is a national membership as well. Any memberships paid directly to the national office are assigned to the chapter affiliation requested by the applicant or (if not specified) are designated based on location of the closest active chapter to the applicant.

What is the purpose of the COMTO Indiana Chapter?

Though Indiana has made gains over the years the State is not exempt from issues relating to inequities in leadership diversity in the State’s transportation industry. COMTO Indiana was created to espouse and foster the mission of the national organization in creating a more level playing field for minorities and people of color to be employed and advance as decision makers and leaders in this growing industry. The chapter also wants to serve as an advocate and agent of change to ensure that minority suppliers and contractors receive an equal and fair opportunity to compete and serve in Indiana’s transportation industry and statewide initiatives. Finally, COMTO Indiana wants to champion the effort to ensure that the minority students of today are mentored and their education financially supported to prepare them as leaders in the State’s transportation industry tomorrow.

Who should be involved?

Anyone who shares the same vision and mission of COMTO.

What if I’m not directly involved in the transit field?

First, COMTO is more than transit (or buses). COMTO is a multimodal organization, which includes: transit, roads and highways, rail, port authorities and airports. The transportation industry also is comprised of a multitude of trades and skill disciplines that are required to deliver and provide transportation services to the public. Your skill set and/or talent could serve as an asset for COMTO. Again, if you share in the vision and mission of COMTO you are welcome to become a member.

What do I receive with my membership?

Your membership provides you with access to some of the greatest transportation information resources and training opportunities available. Please refer to the Membership Matrix on the membership page.  

How can I be involved?

Secure a membership today, and attend the monthly chapter meetings. Become engaged in the strategic projects and activities on the calendar or in the planning stages. Volunteer your time and talent to one of the chapter committees. Remember COMTO Indiana is a statewide organization so your involvement may be more long distance via, teleconference calls and e-mails. You may be asked to take the lead on a COMTO event or initiative in your local community.

What is the time commitment for membership in COMTO Indiana?

That is pretty much determined by you. We encourage all members to participate in our monthly meetings either in person or by conference phone. These meetings usually last no more than 2 hours. Also, COMTO Indiana does not have any paid staff, so events or programs that we sponsor or host typically require the volunteer support of the members.

What does membership cost? Is it for a calendar year?

Membership varies based on type (e.g. individual, student, corporation, institution, etc.), however they are all for one calendar year. Please refer to the membership page for further details.

Can I participate without being a member?

COMTO Indiana welcomes non-member supporters.  However, non-members will not be able to vote or hold office.