#United States #Los Angeles #AutoMobility LA #Toks Omishakin #California Transportation

California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin at AutoMobility LA

California is set to witness a pivotal moment in transportation dialogue with Secretary Toks Omishakin headlining the main stage at AutoMobility LA on November 20, 2025. This session is a key component of the Los Angeles Auto Show's media and industry day, offering a unique platform for industry leaders and media personnel to interact with one of the most influential figures in transportation.

Terri Toennies, the president of the Los Angeles Auto Show, emphasized the significance of this event, stating, "As California leads the nation in reimagining transportation, there's no more important conversation than the one connecting state policy with the innovation coming from the automotive and mobility sectors."
This lunchtime main stage presentation will be presented by Cox Automotive and is titled "Direct Line Live with California's Secretary of Transportation, Toks Omishakin." During this session, Secretary Omishakin will delve into California's role in ushering in the future of mobility. Key topics will include electrification, strategic infrastructure investments, climate-conscious policies, and the collaboration between public and private sectors in driving innovation.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with the Secretary by submitting questions and topic suggestions which will be addressed live on stage. Following this, an open Q&A session will enable audience members to delve deeper into the pressing transportation matters concerning California today.

Secretary Omishakin noted, "California is proving what's possible when policy, innovation, and people-centric values align. From expanding zero-emission readiness in our communities to setting the global model for safe autonomous vehicle deployment, we rely on our Core Four priorities to build a transportation system that's cleaner, safer, more equitable and contributes to prosperity for every Californian."

Under his leadership, several noteworthy initiatives have already taken shape in the state. This year, for instance, the California New Motor Vehicle Board launched its Zero Emission Vehicle Readiness Awards, which honors cities and regions that are at the forefront of adopting climate-friendly transportation options. This program recognizes efforts in areas such as expanding charging infrastructure, supporting zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption, and developing equitable and innovative policies aimed at reducing carbon footprints.

Moreover, innovation in the realm of autonomous vehicles has continued to thrive under Secretary Omishakin’s guidance. The California Department of Motor Vehicles recently proposed extending its regulations to encompass heavy-duty trucks, cementing the state’s position as a leader in autonomous vehicle innovation. This draft regulation outlines a phased permitting process along with stricter safety and reporting standards, thereby enhancing both safety on the roads and the efficiency of goods movement across the state.

Having served as Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) since 2022, Omishakin oversees numerous state transportation departments, boards, and commissions, collectively employing over 42,000 individuals and managing substantial budgets exceeding $30 billion annually. Before his current role, he spent three years as the director of Caltrans, further honing his expertise in transportation management.

AutoMobility LA promises a dynamic agenda filled with various panels, discussions, and media previews, with Secretary Omishakin's appearance being a standout highlight. The event serves as a focal point where the global mobility ecosystem converges to explore emerging technologies, policies, and collaborations shaping the future of transportation.

This session, along with the entire main stage programming, will be live-streamed globally by CarBuzz, the official partner of AutoMobility LA. For those interested in attending, registration is currently open. Various admission options are available, including complimentary admission for accredited press members and standard registration for industry professionals.

To learn more about attending and to register, visit www.automobilityla.com. Don't miss this chance to be a part of the conversation that is shaping the future of transportation in California.

In conclusion, this key dialogue at AutoMobility LA underscores California's leadership role in transportation policy and innovation, paving the way for a future that aligns closely with the state's ambitious climate and mobility goals.