Staff Spotlight: Billy Williams, Ph.D, P.E.
Dr. Billy Williams became the Director of the Institute for Transportation Research and Education in August 2018. Dr. Williams is also a Professor in the Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at NC State University, and worked closely with ITRE for many years as an affiliate faculty researcher prior to leading the institute. He also previously served as Assistant Professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology, worked five years as a consulting engineer with the firm of Kimley-Horn and Associates, and served four years as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps. Dr. Williams received his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Civil Engineering from NC State University, and his Doctorate degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Virginia.
What is Your Expertise?
Dr. Williams is a recognized expert in the areas of analytical and simulation modeling of traffic operations and transportation networks, intelligent transportation systems, and the application of rigorous statistical methods to a broad range of transportation modeling applications, including traffic condition forecasting and models of fundamental traffic flow characteristics.
Who are You?
I am a husband, father, and grandfather — born in Raleigh and raised in Eastern North Carolina.
What’s a Fun Fact About Yourself?
Starting in 1972, I worked as part of a barn crew in rural NC with my grandfather. Some of those old-fashioned barns are either disused or have been converted for other uses, so glad I got that opportunity.
What are Your Favorite Things About ITRE?
We have a unique mission and an incredible academic environment in which to work out this mission. I love how the ITRE team thrives in this environment with creativity and dedication.
What Can People Ask You About?
Audiobooks, tennis, hiking, kayaking, and most anything outdoors.
What Inspired You to Enter This Industry?
Safe and accessible mobility is critical to the quality of life for all people. I wanted to use my natural abilities and training to help people by improving transportation for all.
How Can People Reach You?
billy_williams@ncsu.edu
Traffic Condition Forecasting
Intelligent Transportation Systems
Modeling and Computation