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The International Parking & Mobility Institute (IPMI) is the largest community for parking, transportation, and mobility professionals in the world. We welcome you to our community, where you will have access to best-in-class learning, a powerful network, and tools you need for success.
Thought Leadership
Membership
IPMI members maximize their access to our unparalleled network and community of parking, transportation, and mobility professionals and organizations.
With cutting edge-research and publications, members gain the information and expertise they need to streamline and advance their operations.
Learning opportunities include in-person events like the annual Conference & Expo and Leadership Summit, live virtual events, a comprehensive library of on-demand courses, and certificates and credentials.
Education & Events
PTAP Conference & Trade Show, April 1-3, 2025, in Pittsburgh, PA.
Join us for a members-only roundtable dedicated to university and academic members.
This session will provide attendees with relevant and practical knowledge on how we approach the issue of mental health, why it is imperative to check in consistently, and what strategies can be employed to help address and mitigate issues that might negatively impact us both personally and professionally.
Stockholm and Sunnyvale, CA – EasyPark Group, a leading provider of digital parking and mobility solutions, and Google Cloud announced a strategic collaboration to support its multicloud strategy and advance its AI journey. By leveraging Google Cloud’s AI technology, EasyPark Group aims to accelerate global expansion through intelligent automation, enhance operational efficiency, and drive innovation that transforms the mobility experience for users worldwide. “Our partnership with Google Cloud marks a significant step toward realizing our vision of creating more livable cities through technology. Together, we are redefining urban mobility—making it more convenient, efficient, and sustainable for users worldwide while enhancing employee productivity. As a product-led technology company, we are committed to delivering secure, modern solutions that address today’s mobility challenges and drive the future of urban innovation,” said Sandesh Bhat, Chief Technology Officer at EasyPark Group. In the initial phase of this partnership, EasyPark Group is leveraging Google Cloud’s AI capabilities to streamline employee onboarding and to integrate employees from recent acquisitions. To address this challenge, the solution – built on Google Cloud’s Vertex AI platform – uses Agent Builder to create an intelligent agent that serves as a companion for every employee. This agent provides instant access to information, guides individuals through onboarding processes, and facilitates the seamless integration of acquired team members. Using Gemini’s advanced natural language processing and understanding, the intelligent agent can comprehend and respond to complex queries, including in multiple languages. It also offers personalized support and accelerates the learning curve for new and existing employees. This AI-driven approach helps enhance efficiency and improve the employee experience during the onboarding and integration phases of the employee’s journey. “As we continue our growth path, we need an efficient AI solution that is personalized, efficient and scalable within multiple use cases. Google Cloud’s AI capabilities, particularly Gemini 2.0 and Vertex AI Agent Builder, allowed us to create a seamless and intuitive experience that has significantly reduced onboarding time and improved employee experience,” said Bhat. “This strategic alliance with EasyPark Group highlights the critical role of AI in driving operational transformation and workforce productivity.” said Eva Fors, Managing Director of Google Cloud Nordics. “By providing EasyPark with flexible AI solutions, we’re empowering the company to transform operational processes, enhance workforce productivity, and ultimately, deliver a superior experience to users worldwide. This collaboration is not just about streamlining onboarding; it’s about setting the stage for long-term, AI-driven advancements that will redefine how cities manage mobility.” This successful implementation marks the beginning of EasyPark Group’s AI journey with Google Cloud, as it continues to explore the potential of AI to unlock new opportunities, make data-driven decisions, and accelerate global reach. About Google Cloud Google Cloud is the new way to the cloud, providing AI, infrastructure, developer, data, security, and collaboration tools built for today and tomorrow. Google Cloud offers a powerful, fully integrated and optimized AI stack with its own planet-scale infrastructure, custom-built chips, generative AI models and development platform, as well as AI-powered applications, to help organizations transform. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted technology partner. About EasyPark Group EasyPark Group is a global mobility platform with a vision to make cities more livable. Present in over 6,000 cities across more than 80 countries, the company simplifies parking and mobility worldwide. In 2024, EasyPark Group was recognized as one of Europe’s fastest-growing businesses by Financial Times and Statista. And in January 2025, it expanded its scope by acquiring Flowbird. Together, the group is uniquely equipped to support cities’ distinct needs with proven mobility solutions, and to create a global leading mobility platform where technology, data, insights, payments and user-choice make urban life easier for everyone.
OAKLAND, CA – The Oakland City Council just approved the installation of 244 Flash Level 2 public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and other improvements across eight downtown city parking facilities. The eight newly approved locations will add 244 Level 2 EV chargers to the existing 24 charging stations already installed at the Oakland City Center Garage (525 14th St.) and 32 charging stations at the Rotunda Garage (524 16th St.) for a total of 300. Level 2 chargers provide 240 volts of electricity, allowing nearly all-electric vehicles to charge from empty to full in four to eight hours. “Oakland is committed to building a greener, more sustainable future, and expanding our public EV charging infrastructure is a critical step in that journey. These new chargers will make it easier for Oaklanders—especially those who don’t have access to at-home charging—to choose clean transportation. By investing in this infrastructure now, we’re ensuring that all our communities can benefit from the transition to electric vehicles, reducing emissions and improving air quality for everyone,” said Interim Oakland Mayor Kevin Jenkins. “The people of Oakland lead the nation in the transition to electric vehicles, and this gives them convenient, affordable access to the infrastructure they need to sustain the shift and make it a practical choice for more of our residents, especially those who can’t realistically charge at home,” said Josh Rowan, OakDOT Director. This new partnership with Flash will help implement Oakland’s Zero Emission Vehicle Action Plan and 2030 Equitable Climate Action Plan, which together provide a roadmap to a zero-emission transportation system in Oakland. The chargers will be installed at no cost to the City and the City will receive half of net revenues from charging. The new EV charging sites will be operational by the end of 2025 – some with on-site battery systems, lighting, and other property improvements – at the following addresses: Oakland Museum of California – 1000 Oak St. Marriott Convention Center – 1001 Broadway St. Pacific Renaissance Plaza – 1002 Webster St. Harrison Garage – 1200 Harrison St. Franklin Plaza Garage – 1735 Franklin St. Telegraph Plaza Garage – 2100 Telegraph Ave. 1800 San Pablo Lot – 1800 San Pablo Ave. Parkway Lot – 360-398 E. 19th St. The new locations join the initial two that went live late last year as part of a growing EV charging ‘Innovation Lab’ Flash is building with a $5.8 million grant from the California Energy Commission (CEC) to demonstrate a reliable, scalable model for public charging infrastructure. “The City of Oakland and its residents have embraced electric vehicles and clean transportation,” said Hannon Rasool, director of the CEC’s Fuels and Transportation Division. “The city’s leadership in supporting and installing effective public charging infrastructure helps improve our communities. Oakland is setting an example for how cities can lead across California and the country.” Data from Flash and CEC’s collaboration will provide technical and financial insights to improve efficiency, dependability, and return on investment to the City of Oakland. Flash will also promote the availability of the new EV charging stations through a multi-channel community outreach initiative, including direct outreach to area businesses. “This collaboration with CEC and the City of Oakland is a huge source of pride for us at Flash,” said Matt McCaffree, Vice President & General Manager of EV Charging at Flash. “We’re showing what’s possible for the future of parking plus charging and playing a part in helping Oakland and other smart cities make the EV transition a reality.” About the Oakland Equitable Climate Action Plan (ECAP) The ECAP establishes actions the City and its partners will take by 2030 to equitably reduce Oakland’s climate emissions and adapt to a changing climate. Part of the ECAP is the Zero Emission Vehicle Action Plan, which provides a roadmap for transitioning to a zero-emission transportation system. Learn more here: https://www.oaklandca.gov/topics/sustainable-oakland-1 About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations—connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress. The solution has arrived. Visit www.flashparking.com to learn more.
Vancouver, Canada – PayByPhone, a global leader in mobile parking payments, launches its multi-award-winning Meters for Trees tree-planting initiative in North America. First introduced in the UK in 2019, Meters for Trees offers an innovative and straightforward way to promote mobile parking payments while making a meaningful environmental impact by planting trees. Carmen Donnell, Managing Director North America for PayByPhone, says, “Meters for Trees is a revolutionary initiative that promotes positive and sustainable change, which is perfect to launch ahead of the United Nations’ International Day of Forests and World Planting Day 2025, which takes place on March 21. Thanks to the removal or decommissioning of meters or pay stations, cities, universities, and parking operators can leave a sustainable green legacy for future generations, while at the same time contribute to cleaner air today for local communities and save costs for their operation simply by promoting mobile parking payments.” Meters for Trees is part of PayByPhone’s broader environmental campaigns, including Green December. Over the past five years, these campaigns have collectively planted over 225,000 trees globally. Under the terms of Meters for Trees, PayByPhone will plant one verified tree on its client’s behalf for every multi-space meter, and one tree for every 10 single-space parking meters in a client’s operation that are removed. Trees will be planted through PayByPhone’s partner, veritree, a data-driven, restorative platform that connects nature-based solutions with mission-driven companies ready to lead the restorative economy. By switching to mobile parking payments, cities, universities and parking operators help improve air quality by eliminating the need for collection and maintenance vehicles, which would otherwise be on the roads collecting cash from parking meters and pay stations, repairing and replacing parts, emitting harmful tailpipe gasses. Greenhouse gases, like CO2, and vehicles, in particular diesel vehicles, which emit particulate matter such as soot and NOx, negatively impact air quality and may exacerbate many respiratory illnesses. Each tree planted through Meters for Trees absorbs CO₂, directly benefitting the local environment by sequestering greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Meters for Trees has been recognized for its environmental efforts, winning 12 international awards to date, including a Global Gold Award at the 2019 Green World Environment Awards in the Carbon Reduction and Local Authorities categories, the Green Champion Award in Carbon Reduction at the 2019 Green Apple Environment Awards, and the Environmental Initiative Award at the 2020 SEAL Business Sustainability Awards. “Implementation of Meters for Trees is uncomplicated, quick and inexpensive. By removing payment hardware in favor of digital parking payments, clients not only eliminate the need for expensive EMV readers but also streamline operations and reduce maintenance costs. At the same time, they can make an immediate impact through supporting reforestation efforts. Best of all, they can make the switch at their own pace, ensuring a seamless transition that fits their needs,” adds Donnell. Oswaldo Tosado, Deputy Director of Allentown Parking Authority, in Pennsylvania, one of the first cities to have implemented Meters for Trees, says, “Partnering with PayByPhone on Meters for Trees is an exciting step toward sustainability. It allows us to drive greater adoption of mobile parking solutions while actively contributing to environmental conservation.” Monica Beltran, Parking Mobility and Sustainability Director City of Coral Gables, says, “Joining PayByPhone’s Meters for Trees is a meaningful way for our city to reinforce what truly sets Coral Gables apart—our lush tree canopy. As a Tree City USA for 40 years and counting, we take immense pride in preserving and enhancing our urban forest.” Chelsea Baker van Drood, Parking Services Program Specialist, City of Olympia, Washington, who signed up to Meters for Trees in 2025, says, “We’re excited to partner with PayByPhone on Meters for Trees as part of our commitment to combating climate change and deforestation. This initiative offers an innovative and easy way to promote mobile parking payments while planting trees and making a meaningful environmental impact.” For more information about Meters for Trees, please visit www.paybyphone.com/meters-for-trees ABOUT PAYBYPHONE We simplify the journeys for millions of people through our smart, intuitive mobile payment technology and exciting features. We work with over 1,400 clients across North America, the UK, France, Germany, Switzerland and Ireland. More than 95 million drivers worldwide have trusted us with their payments to date. To discover how our products and services can elevate your driving experience, please visit www.paybyphone.com. ABOUT VERITREE veritree is a data-driven, restorative platform that connects nature-based solutions with mission-driven companies ready to lead the restorative economy. With on-the-ground monitoring and blockchain verification, veritree improves transparency and trust through data and tools that revitalize ecosystems, strengthen communities, and build climate solutions. veritree scales consumer-centric programs between planting organizations and corporations around the world. veritree’s mission is to restore the planet—planting and verifying one billion trees within the decade. For more information, visit veritree.com. Contact: Sarah Claridge Communications Consultant Indaba sarah.claridge@weareindaba.com (+44) 207 692 4964
Professional Development
Accredited Parking Organization (APO) is a designation for parking, transportation, and mobility organizations that have achieved a comprehensive standard of excellence.
IPMI offers industry-leading certification that places those who earn the designations as the leaders of the profession. The PTMP credential is respected worldwide as the leading parking and mobility credential.
The IPMI Conference & Expo brings together professionals representing every level of experience and segment of the parking, transportation, and mobility industry. The event delivers four days of exceptional education, the largest display of parking- and mobility-specific technology and innovations, networking, and the opportunity to connect with a global community – to advance the industry.
Employees are an organization’s most valuable asset. An investment in staff training and education brings a high rate of return in job performance and satisfaction. IPMI offers custom, agency-specific trainings on these topics for your staff. Our training team is made up of industry veterans who can help your organization soar.
Parking Enforcement & Compliance Professional™ (PECP) is the next step in your career path as a parking enforcement professional.
Virtual education includes live online training in the form of webinars, Frontline training , and instructor-led learning courses. IPMI also offers a robust online library for on-demand learning.
Enhance your visibility and increase your bottom line with IPMI’s publications, platforms, and events.
Work with the IPMI team to create a customized package to reach your target audience and exceed your sales goals.
Your competition is here, are you?
“IPMI has been transformative for my career development, connecting me with mentors and industry leaders who challenged me to push beyond my comfort zone. Through this invaluable network, I’ve gained the confidence to make bold decisions and stay ahead of emerging technologies. The exposure to innovative vendors, peer insights, and cutting-edge solutions has strengthened my credibility with administration and enhanced my ability to drive meaningful change in parking and transportation operations.”
Tanara Teal-Tate /Executive Director, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“Being a member of IPMI has played such an important part in advancing my professional career and developing leadership skills. Whether it’s obtaining highly regarded certifications, continued learning of industry trends, or having the opportunity to present on technical and workplace matters, IPMI has created an environment to move our industry forward. One of the most meaningful benefits of the membership is being a part of the diverse network of connections and partners!”
Mark Santos, PE, PTMP /Director of Operations, Walker Consultants
“IPMI has been instrumental in expanding my professional network. Through their events and resources, I have been able to raise my voice, share my expertise, and connect with key industry leaders. These experiences have not only increased my visibility but have also opened new doors for collaboration and growth in my career.”
Madison Huemmer /Head of Market Transformation, ParkMobile, LLC
“IPMI has been diligent about creating avenues to truly make a difference. Through IPMI, my personal journey has allowed me to invest in myself, light the path forward, and elevate other voices in the industry.”
Joseph R Madison II /Assistant Transit Program Delivery Manager, Georgia Department of Transportation
“IPMI membership has been an invaluable resource to me throughout my career in the parking industry. The relationships I’ve built through IPMI have opened doors to meaningful partnerships and new opportunities I never thought possible. Through IPMI’s education and resources, I’ve gained insights into the latest trends and leading technologies, keeping me well-informed and prepared for future shifts in the parking and mobility industry. Being part of IPMI means not just staying informed but also contributing to the advancement of our industry.”
Mike Tudor, PTMP /Executive Director, Parking Authority of River City, Inc.
Relevant Resources
The evolution of Certified Administrator of Public Parking (CAPP) into Parking, Transportation & Mobility Professional™ (PTMP™) isn’t a gimmick—it’s growth. It isn’t just a rebrand—it’s a recognition that our industry continues to transform. CAPP was needed and right for its time. Times are different now, and it’s time for a credential that captures our diverse, dynamic work across the parking, transportation, and mobility sectors.
The homelessness crisis in America is real and has far-reaching economic and community impacts. Parking and mobility owners and operators are facing issues on both the operations and enforcement fronts, from people sleeping outside in and around the garages to those seeking shelter in automobiles using parking garages and lots as places to sleep for the night or longer to stay safe.
We all want to be the best version of ourselves, but balancing family life and work commitments can make it feel impossible at times. Whether you’re juggling meetings or making dinner, there’s always something pulling you in multiple directions. But here’s the thing: Being your best self doesn’t mean being perfect. It means showing up with energy, patience, and intention, both at work and at home. Prioritize Self-Care You can’t pour from an empty cup. If you’re running on empty, it’s hard to give your best to anyone. Start by carving out time for yourself—even if it’s just 10 minutes a day. Whether it’s a walk, reading, or simply sitting in silence, taking care of your mental and physical health recharges you, making you more present for your family and your work team. Set Boundaries It’s easy to blur the lines between work and home life, especially when you’re constantly connected. But setting clear boundaries is essential. Try to stick to your work hours when possible and avoid bringing work stress home. When you’re with your family, give them your full attention. They deserve it, and you’ll feel more connected to them. Communicate Openly Whether it’s with your boss, your colleagues, or your family, communication is key. Be open about your needs, challenges, and what you need help with. A supportive work environment and a family that understands your goals make it easier to thrive in both areas. Embrace Imperfection You’re never going to be 100% at everything. Some days, work will demand more, and other days, your family needs extra care. Embrace everything about life. Perfection is overrated—what matters is that you’re showing up, giving your best, and trying to balance it all. At the end of the day, being your best self is about consistency, not perfection. Focus on small moments of growth and remember—you’re doing better than you think. Tavris Parker, PTMP, is a Parking Operations Manager for the City of Virginia Beach. Tavris can be reached at TParker@vbgov.com.
How do you see the future of parking in your city? If I would have asked this question fifteen or twenty years ago we would be speaking about flying cars and all sorts of other, out of this world, possibilities. What comes to mind when you think of this question now? How do you see the future of parking in your city? When I think of the future of parking in my city, a beautiful coastal town with a wild, tourist driven, peak season. I think of satellite parking lots. As cities seem to fill up more and parking seems to disappear, it begs the question of self driving cars and satellite lots. I am more of a gas and oil kind of person and not so much of an eco-electric / self driving fanatic. Though I am not inclined to this sort of thing, I certainly see the perks of driving your own personal vehicle to a destination and having the vehicle park in an economic parking space outside of the destination. With a call back feature, it would certainly bring better convenience than uber or any sort of rideshare app. How do you see the future in your city? Tate Misiaszek is a Project Manager for LAZ Parking. You can reach Tate at TMisiaszek@lazparking.com.
No child dreams of entering the parking industry. I certainly didn’t. Like many of us, I stumbled into this field through a series of unexpected opportunities and practical decisions. What began as “just a job” eventually became a lifelong career. And for years, as we built our company we did so the same way. Looking at opportunities and making practical decisions. Then one day, idly skimming the stacks at Kramerbooks, The High Cost of Free Parking popped out at me. What? I pulled it out, cut it open and read: “Children first learn about free parking when they play Monopoly”. “City planners sometimes mistake Pandora’s box for a toolkit.” “Every jab of the parking needle relieves the local symptoms but ultimately worsens the real disease” Pungent, direct, revelatory and I was hooked. Completely hooked. I read it in a rush finding confirmation here, challenged assumptions there. But what I found more than anything else was an intellectual foundation that understood parking wasn’t mere infrastructure but a critical component of urban planning and community economics. His research demonstrated that parking policies shape cities as powerfully as any zoning law or transportation system. What made Shoup truly exceptional was his ability to connect parking to nearly every aspect of urban life. He showed us how pricing strategies affect traffic congestion, how minimum parking requirements influence housing affordability, and how curb management impacts retail success. These connections were more obvious to those of us who had spent decades focused on parking operations but Shoup provided the language and intellectual heft that made it clear to the larger world. As our company continues adapting to a rapidly evolving mobility landscape, Shoup’s intellectual framework remains our most valuable asset. For those who found themselves in an industry few deliberately choose, his work provided direction, and a sense of purpose beyond profit margins. He helped us understand that we aren’t just selling parking spaces, we are participating in the complex choreography of urban life, with responsibilities extending far beyond our property lines and rate surveys. Though Donald Shoup has left us, his ideas continue to guide Federal Parking and countless others who found their way into this unexpected career. For that intellectual legacy, we remain profoundly grateful. That book I picked up is now a bit dog eared, as are most of us who spend decades in this industry…but it still sits in easy reach on the shelf above my desk. William Boyle is the Owner of Federal Parking, Inc. William can be reached at waboyle@federalparking.com. Reposted with permission from the Mid-Atlantic Parking & Transportation Association No child dreams of entering the parking industry. I certainly didn’t. Like many of us, I stumbled into this field through a series of unexpected opportunities and practical decisions. What began as “just a job” eventually became a lifelong career. And for years, as we built our company we did so the same way. Looking at opportunities and making practical decisions. Then one day, idly skimming the stacks at Kramerbooks, The High Cost of Free Parking popped out at me. What? I pulled it out, cut it open and read: “Children first learn about free parking when they play Monopoly”. “City planners sometimes mistake Pandora’s box for a toolkit.” “Every jab of the parking needle relieves the local symptoms but ultimately worsens the real disease” Pungent, direct, revelatory and I was hooked. Completely hooked. I read it in a rush finding confirmation here, challenged assumptions there. But what I found more than anything else was an intellectual foundation that understood parking wasn’t mere infrastructure but a critical component of urban planning and community economics. His research demonstrated that parking policies shape cities as powerfully as any zoning law or transportation system. What made Shoup truly exceptional was his ability to connect parking to nearly every aspect of urban life. He showed us how pricing strategies affect traffic congestion, how minimum parking requirements influence housing affordability, and how curb management impacts retail success. These connections were more obvious to those of us who had spent decades focused on parking operations but Shoup provided the language and intellectual heft that made it clear to the larger world. As our company continues adapting to a rapidly evolving mobility landscape, Shoup’s intellectual framework remains our most valuable asset. For those who found themselves in an industry few deliberately choose, his work provided direction, and a sense of purpose beyond profit margins. He helped us understand that we aren’t just selling parking spaces, we are participating in the complex choreography of urban life, with responsibilities extending far beyond our property lines and rate surveys. Though Donald Shoup has left us, his ideas continue to guide Federal Parking and countless others who found their way into this unexpected career. For that intellectual legacy, we remain profoundly grateful. That book I picked up is now a bit dog eared, as are most of us who spend decades in this industry…but it still sits in easy reach on the shelf above my desk. William Boyle is the Owner of Federal Parking, Inc. William can be reached at waboyle@federalparking.com. Reposted with permission from the Mid-Atlantic Parking & Transportation Association.
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