OCTA Welcomes New Teen Council to Help Shape Orange County’s Transportation Future

OCTA's 2026-27 Teen Council kicked off has formed, giving Orange County high school students an opportunity to learn, build leadership skills and share their perspectives on transportation

ORANGE - A new group of Orange County high school students is getting a firsthand look at transportation this school year while helping provide a youth perspective on the future of transportation in the county.

The Orange County Transportation Authority recently welcomed 30 students to the 2026-27 Teen Council, kicking off a year of learning about transportation in Orange County, building professional skills and sharing their ideas and perspectives.

"The OCTA Teen Council gives young people an opportunity to learn how transportation decisions are made while sharing perspectives that are important to the future of Orange County," said OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico. "We are excited to welcome this year's members and hear their ideas as they learn, grow and become more involved in their communities."

The new Teen Council members come from high schools throughout Orange County, from Anaheim to Aliso Viejo and Yorba Linda to Newport Beach, bringing a variety of experiences and perspectives to the program.

Initially formed in 2015, the OCTA Teen Council gives Orange County youth, ages 13 to 18, an opportunity to learn about transportation programs and projects while building leadership, teamwork, communication and critical-thinking skills.

Throughout the 2026-27 school year, members will participate in six meetings and learn about topics that help shape transportation decisions in Orange County, including transportation planning, funding, legislation, marketing, environmental impacts, ridesharing and transit. Students will also participate in professional development workshops and community service opportunities.

Teen Council members are encouraged to engage in discussions, exchange ideas and provide feedback that can help OCTA better understand the perspectives of young people. Past members have contributed ideas to marketing campaigns and initiatives such as the Youth Ride Free pass.

OCTA's Teen Council will meet monthly through May. At the end of their term, members will be invited to an OCTA Board of Directors meeting to be recognized for their participation.

For more information about OCTA's Teen Council program, visit OCTA.net/TeenCouncil.

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