The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is preparing for a significant leadership transition as Laura J. Mester, Chief Administrative Officer, retires on January 30, marking more than 15 years with MDOT and an extraordinary 32 years of service to the State of Michigan.

Since joining the department in 2011, Laura has been a cornerstone of MDOT’s executive leadership team. Her influence and steady guidance have shaped nearly every corner of the organization. She played a driving role in establishing the Office of Enterprise Information Management, elevating MDOT’s focus on data, technology integration, and information governance. She also led the creation of the Office of Rail as a standalone modal office, strengthening multimodal coordination and investment strategy across the state.

Laura oversaw the revision of MDOT’s strategic plan, sharpening expectations around performance, long-range vision, and outcomes. She has been instrumental in advancing financial management practices and supporting major initiatives that continue to improve mobility and infrastructure throughout Michigan.

Prior to MDOT, Laura served in the State Budget Office for 13 years, directing the Accounting and Financial Reporting Division. There, she led Michigan’s early implementation of GASB Statement 34, one of the most impactful governmental accounting reforms in recent history. Her career has been marked by both innovation and outstanding leadership, earning honors such as the Government Financial Manager of the Year Award, the William R. Snodgrass Leadership Award, and the 2023 WTS Michigan Woman of the Year. She has also been recognized for her statewide leadership roles with MAASTO and the Michigan Aeronautics Commission.

Laura’s legacy is one of excellence, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to MDOT’s mission. The engineering community extends its deepest gratitude for her decades of service and leadership—and offers warm congratulations on her well-earned retirement.

Welcoming MDOT’s Next Chief Administrative Officer: Paul McDonald

As MDOT turns toward the next chapter of its administrative leadership, Director Brad Wieferich has announced the appointment of Paul McDonald as the department’s incoming Chief Administrative Officer, effective November 24.

Paul brings more than 25 years of state government financial leadership, most recently serving as the Finance Division Director and Chief Financial Officer for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). In this role, he oversaw department-wide fiscal strategy, accounting, procurement, federal aid, travel, security services, and major financial programs—including the Michigan Underground Storage Tank Authority (MUSTA) and the Water Infrastructure Funding and Financing Section (WIFFS).

Paul began his state service in the Office of Financial Management, where he helped shape statewide accounting policy and led the development of Michigan’s first financial transparency portal. He later served as Chief Accountant for the Department of Health and Human Services, managing more than $15 billion in annual revenue and expenditures.

A graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in accounting, Paul also holds an associate degree in computer security and controls from Lansing Community College. He and his wife live in DeWitt and have two college-aged children. An enthusiastic Spartan and active community member, Paul brings both expertise and energy to his new role at MDOT.

Looking Ahead

The Michigan engineering community thanks Laura Mester for her remarkable contributions and steadfast leadership—and extends a warm welcome to Paul McDonald as he steps into this key statewide role. MDOT’s commitment to innovation, transparency, and service remains strong, and this leadership transition is poised to support the department’s continued success in the years ahead.