Meet Evan Sullivan, who works with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Volpe Center, researching technologies that make travel safer and smarter. When he’s not improving mobility systems, he’s out hiking, boxing, or enjoying Concord’s vibrant local scene.
Q: Where do you currently work?
I currently work for the United States Department of Transportation. I specifically work on behalf of one of the department’s research offices, known as the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center. Many of my colleagues work out of our flagship office in Cambridge, MA, but others (like myself) work from federal sites across the country. Congress authorizes us to conduct business through our own Working Capital Fund (Statute 49 U.S.C. §328), and we operate on a fee-for-service model that allows us to
provide services to different businesses, communities, and government agencies.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do.
My professional role is to research transportation technologies and operations. My deliverables and services help engineers and agency officials optimize infrastructure investments, advance emerging safety practices, and prepare for the deployment of various mobility technologies. Safety is always a top priority! I also volunteer time every summer to conduct migratory bird counts in the White Mountains.
Q: Why do you choose to live in the Greater Concord area?
Concord is a vibrant community that co-locates state, federal, private-sector and non-profit professionals across many disciplines and services. This wide range of amenities and businesses drew me here, and I’ve been excited to call this city my home for a couple of years now. The city is also remarkably close to New Hampshire’s lakes, mountains, and seashore.
Q: What’s a secret or piece of fun trivia about Concord that you think most people don’t know?
Winant Park offers a clear view of Mount Monadnock (36 straight-line miles away). Visitors can catch a unique elevation profile of the mountain that’s only visible from the Greater Concord area. If it’s cloudy and you’re out of luck with the vista, there’s still plenty to see up close! There are a couple of jaw-dropping old-growth trees along the park’s trail network that are a must-see.
Q: What do you like to do for fun?
I like to go four-season hiking and backpacking in the White Mountains. I also enjoy boxing lessons, running, yoga classes and barre workouts. My partner is encouraging me to write music and learn guitar, which has been a fulfilling experience so far. I also enjoy eating ice cream!
Q: How did you find out about CYPN, and how has it benefitted your business or you personally? I found CYPN after an internet search, and it seemed like a great resource because I didn’t know anyone in Concord, NH when I moved here. CYPN has been a great way to connect with community professionals and make friends. Everyone is welcoming, curious, and knowledgeable.
Q: Who is your greatest role model?
My mother. She is one of twelve children and has consistently modeled resilience and empathy for me throughout my childhood and adult years. Over the past ten years, I’ve also depended on a few mentors in New England’s extensive boxing community who have guided me through some challenging times in my life.
Q: What has been your favorite CYPN event so far?
It’s honestly hard to choose! I have a soft spot for outdoor events. So, I have to say either Sunfox Farm’s Sunflower Bloom Festival or Social Club Creamery + Homebody along Main St.
Q: Where is the best place you’ve visited?
Last month, I had a terrific start to my day at the new Morning Dew Sauna Company, one of Greater Concord’s newest businesses in Hopkinton. It was a very memorable experience and a unique amenity that I think everyone should check out.