A 30-year City employee, Vinson has served as interim director of Wichita Transit since February 2008.

A Chicago native, Vinson completed his undergraduate degree from Wichita State University in 1979 and his Master’s degree in Urban Affairs from WSU in 1980. He worked for five years as a transportation and transit planner with the Metropolitan Area Planning Department and spent 25 years at Wichita Transit, holding positions of Transit Planner, Special Services Manager, Administrative Services Manager, and Assistant Director.

He was involved in the formation of the Kansas Public Transit Association and was elected president of KPTA in 1985. He remains active on its board and serves on various boards and committees in the community.

“Mike has demonstrated that he is a strong and innovative leader,” Moore said. “He has many strong qualities, including attention to detail, willingness to effect change and dedication to public service. I’m confident he will take the transit department to another level, improving the overall level of daily service to our citizens.”

As director, Vinson will manage a staff of 130, including 90 employees represented by the Teamsters Union.

Vinson succeeds Jay Banasiak, General Manager with First Transit. The City Council cancelled the First Transit contract in February and placed the department under internal control.

Back to Top