The people building
the Connector.

Derek Minnema is a Transportation leader with a proven track record of delivering complex, multi-jurisdictional infrastructure projects. As Executive Director of the Capital SouthEast Connector Joint Powers Authority, I have secured over $100 million in competitive federal, state, and local funding, cleared more than 20 miles of environmental approvals, and delivered significant infrastructure improvements across the Sacramento region.

My expertise spans strategic coalition building, federal grant strategy, government affairs, and project delivery. I specialize in bringing diverse stakeholders together around shared regional goals while respecting local priorities and navigating complex regulatory environments.

As President of the Transportation Officials Division of the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA), I engage with national best practices in transportation policy and infrastructure finance.

Matt Lampa is a Civil Engineer with nearly 20 years of experience delivering transportation projects throughout the Sacramento region. As the Principal Civil Engineer, he has delivered over 6-miles of Connector improvements.

As a lifelong resident of the Sacramento region, Matt is passionate about implementing the Connector project to create a more connected region and is excited to tackle the challenges associated with construction of a 34-mile multi-modal facility.

Osman serves as Legal Counsel to the Connector JPA, advising the Board and staff on contracts, procurement, environmental compliance, and the unique regulatory framework that governs public infrastructure projects.

Prior to joining the JPA, he represented municipalities and transportation authorities across Northern California, helping shepherd complex projects from environmental review through construction completion. He brings deep expertise in California public agency law to every decision the Board considers.

Erika Zheng is an Administrative Services Officer at the Capital SouthEast Connector Joint Powers Authority, where they support financial operations, contracts, and administrative coordination for major transportation infrastructure projects. They are currently completing an MBA at Sacramento State, where they have developed stronger skills in financial analysis, strategy, and organizational decision-making. Through both their professional experience and graduate studies, Erika Zheng is building a foundation in public-sector operations, data-informed planning, and process improvement, with a strong commitment to contributing to projects that create meaningful, long-term impact for the community.