This month’s UDOT Career Story features Amber Mortensen, Emergency Operations Manager. Amber started at UDOT in 2007 in Region Two Permits. After identifying interest in an assistant traffic engineer position that did not require an engineering degree, she engaged in job shadowing and returned to school to qualify for the role. Amber used the state’s tuition reimbursement program to earn a degree in planning and a master’s in public administration. 

In her current role, Amber established the Emergency Coordination Center as a space for people to collaborate during an emergency. She has equipped the Center with workspaces and “comfort items” such as toothbrushes and spare clothing that might be needed if people were required to be on-site during an emergency. She also oversees UDOT’s participation in the annual Great Utah Shakeout. Watch Amber’s career story.

"UDOT Career Stories" is a monthly feature that highlights the many development opportunities at UDOT. Hear directly from your fellow employees about how they've navigated their careers through UDOT learning programs, available resources, mentorship, and openness to changing responsibilities.