TT EP 49: From E-ZPass to AI: Modernizing the Ohio Turnpike for the Future

What does it take to modernize a 241-mile toll road while keeping a 24/7 operation moving? In this episode of Toll Talk, Alex Fakeri and guest co-host Pat Wicketts of CSG sit down with Chriss Pogorelc, Chief Information Officer at the Ohio Turnpike & Infrastructure Commission, to explore more than two decades of technology transformation at the Ohio Turnpike. Chriss shares his journey from programmer to CIO and how technology has evolved from a supporting function into an essential part of nearly every aspect of Turnpike operations. The conversation covers the Ohio Turnpike’s transition to E-ZPass and open-road tolling, the growing role of cybersecurity, ITS and roadway technology, customer experience, and the opportunities AI and automation could bring to transportation agencies. Chriss also shares an important reminder that modernization isn't just about deploying new technology—it’s about understanding how every change impacts customers, employees, operations, and everything downstream. Learn more about Ohio Turnpike & Infrastructure Commission: 🌐 https://www.ohioturnpike.org/ Connect with us: Chriss Pogorelc: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriss-pogorelc-aaa522177/ Pat Wicketts: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pwicketts/ Alex Fakeri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fakeri/ A special thank you to CSG for supporting this episode and for helping drive innovation across customer engagement and payment experiences. https://www.csgi.com/industries/tolling-and-smart-mobility Subscribe to Toll Talk Podcast for more conversations with the leaders, innovators, and organizations shaping the future of tolling, mobility, and transportation. #Tolling #TransportationTechnology #OhioTurnpike #EZPass #OpenRoadTolling #ITS #ArtificialIntelligence #Cybersecurity #SmartMobility #CSG