Procurement Series: West Coast Small Business Academy

Procurement Series: West Coast Small Business Academy
Wednesday, March 18, 2026

LIT is proud to present this informational session designed for small businesses interested in contracting opportunities with transit agencies across the West Coast.

This session will provide an inside look at agency procurement and RFP processes, upcoming contracting opportunities through 2027, key timelines, and how small businesses can position themselves for success. Participants will also have the opportunity to hear directly from agency representatives and ask questions.

Whether you are new to public transportation contracting or looking to strengthen your approach, this Academy will help you better understand how to navigate transit procurement and prepare for future opportunities. Join LIT on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 to gain valuable insight and take the next step in expanding your business within the transit industry.

Speaker Agenda

11:00 AM PT | 1:00 PM CT – Presentation from Dietter Aragon, Director of Operations, Omnitrans

12:00 PM PT | 2:00 PM CT – Presentation from Edson Ives Zavala, PMP, Deputy Executive Director, Economic Development, Sound Transit

Featured Speakers

Dietter Aragon
Director of Operations, Omnitrans

Dietter Aragon brings over 22 years of transit industry experience across public and private sectors. As Director of Operations at Omnitrans, he oversees daily service operations and training to ensure efficient and reliable transit service. Aragon began his career as a coach operator and has held leadership roles in operations, planning, and transit technology. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Latinos In Transit.

Edson Ives Zavala, PMP
Deputy Executive Director, Economic Development
Department of Civil Rights, Equity & Inclusion, Sound Transit

Edson Zavala leads economic development initiatives at Sound Transit focused on expanding opportunities for small, minority, and women-owned businesses. He oversees the agency’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program, Small Business Program, technical assistance efforts, and business outreach initiatives that support inclusive participation in the region’s transit development and expansion.