December 2, 2024
Get to know Justin Neff, Manager of the Traffic Management Program.
What was your first job?
Spying on people. My dad was a private investigator, and because no one expected a kid, I’d wear a hidden camera and record people who had claimed they were injured do things that said otherwise. One time all the camera wires fell out of my jean jacket, but no one seemed to notice.
How did you end up at DVRPC?
I was a high school teacher in Arizona for 11 years. When my wife and I moved back East in 2015, I switched careers, and DVRPC hired me as an intern. Thirty-four years old; new dad; intern. Great for LinkedIn.
What is your work/life philosophy?
I wish I had something really deep to say, but I don’t. Just figure it out, and if you can, help others figure it out.
What three words best describe you?
Dependable, (occasionally) contrarian, ever-evolving.
What is something colleagues don’t know about you?
I cry really easily at movies.
Who would you like to drive across the country with?
Mark Twain. I doubt he’s as interesting as his one-liners, but in my head it would be one witty observation after another. By Pittsburgh we’d probably turn on the radio.
What actor would play you in the movie version of your life?
My students used to say I looked like Keanu Reeves, and it wasn’t a compliment. So I guess him. However, I don’t do karate and he can’t grow a beard.
What is your favorite leisure activity?
Driving around on my tractor.
What is your recent obsession?
Driving around on my tractor.
What is the best music you’ve heard recently?
My kids have been playing the piano for a few months, and it’s finally starting to sound like actual music. That’s a nice change.
Are you a cat or dog person?
I used to think both, but compared to people and their pets these days, probably neither.
What is the most meaningful item in your house?
Our dining room table. We have a strict (my wife would say militant) no phone policy, and there’s just a lot of energy and life that happens there. It would be a different answer if my tractor was in the house.