North County Transit District is celebrating Director of Strategic Planning and Transit Systems Nicholas A. Sofoul for being named to Mass Transit magazine’s “40 Under 40 Class of 2025.” The annual list recognizes rising leaders in the transit industry who demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation, and achievement.
The honor highlights Sofoul’s contributions to advancing public transportation and supporting NCTD’s mission of serving North San Diego County.
“North County Transit – San Diego Railroad congratulates Nick on this incredible recognition,” said Shawn M. Donaghy, chief executive officer. “Over the past few years, the agency has taken on significant projects that have defined the future for North County, and Nick has been an integral part of those successes.”
Sofoul joined NCTD in 2022 and has led several key initiatives, including the launch of the agency’s first microtransit service, NCTD+, and the transition of bus operations and maintenance from a contracted model to direct operations under NCTD. The transition was completed without service disruptions while building a strong organizational culture within the newly integrated team, a news release said.
“I am deeply appreciative of the support of my colleagues, mentors, and leadership at NCTD,” Sofoul said. “Receiving this honor strengthens my resolve to serve with humility and strive for excellence for our passengers, who are always at the heart of my work at NCTD.”
With nearly 15 years of experience in public transportation, Sofoul is an alumnus of the University of Central Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and Florida Atlantic University, where he earned a master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning.
Before joining NCTD, he spent 11 years at Broward County Transit (BCT) in Florida. While there, he helped secure dedicated transit funding, launch the county’s Premium Mobility Plan (PREMO), and advance transit-oriented development strategies through updates to the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code.
