Michael Sandoval is retiring after working in state government for 27 years.
Sandoval served as the secretary of the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) since 2019, according to a press release from the governor’s office. Under his guidance, the department approved and managed multiple construction projects worth approximately $3 billion to improve New Mexico’s transportation infrastructure. He was in charge of 2,500 employees, making his department one of the largest in the state.
“My decision to retire did not come easily,” Sandoval said in the press release. “I love my job and I am proud of the accomplishments and time I spent being of service to New Mexicans. When I think back on the last 27 years, it is the partnerships and relationships I made with employees, legislators, the public and private sectors I am most proud of. They are the driving force behind my success in state government.”
Sandoval held several positions in New Mexico. Prior to his most recent position, he was executive manager of NMDOT’s modal divisions. There, he dealt with major projects including the Rail Runner, permits for commercial vehicles, and traffic safety, according to the press release. He also worked in NMDOT’s Office of Safety Programs, Planning Division, and Traffic Safety Division.
“I am grateful for every position I held, and I am honored to retire on such a high note working under the leadership of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham as her appointed Secretary of Transportation,” Sandoval said. “I believe the department is in a good place and it’s time to carve out more time for my wife, children, family, and golf.”
A native of Santa Fe, Sandoval earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from New Mexico State University.
Deputy Secretary Justin Reese will serve as acting secretary for the department while the administration conducts a comprehensive search to fill the position, the press release said.
Gov. Lujan Grisham expressed her gratitude for Sandoval’s service.
“I am deeply grateful to Mike for his many years of leadership at the Department of Transportation and his professional career in state government,” she said in the press release. “Mike is truly beloved throughout all of state government – he has worked tirelessly over several decades to advance critically important projects improving the quality of life for New Mexicans and supporting state employees. I know he will be missed by his team at NMDOT, legislators, and myself, but I wish him all the best in retirement and his next chapter with his family.”
