Fort Wayne Citilink CEO John Metzinger Stepped Down
Citilink General Manager and CEO John Metzinger has concluded his tenure after five years leading the transit agency.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Should your local transit system prioritize high-demand routes over providing basic community-wide coverage?
Fort Wayne transit agency Citilink announced that General Manager and CEO John Metzinger has stepped down from his position. Chief Operations Officer Pam Schieber will take over the agency as the interim general manager.
Why it matters
The leadership change arrives as Citilink pursues its long-range Transit Tomorrow plan, which aims to guide the future of public transportation infrastructure in Fort Wayne.
John Metzinger served as the agency leader for a 5-year tenure starting in April 2021. Under his leadership, the organization secured $11 million in federal funds designated for electric-hybrid buses.
The players
John Metzinger
John Metzinger is the outgoing General Manager and CEO who led the Fort Wayne transit agency for five years.
Pam Schieber
Pam Schieber is the Chief Operations Officer who will serve as the interim general manager for Citilink.
The details
During his time at the helm, the agency implemented significant operational upgrades including mobile ticketing, Tap to Pay systems, and fare-capping programs. Citilink also enhanced service routes, expanded shelter accessibility, and strengthened connections to local nonprofits.
Timeline
John Metzinger joined Citilink in April 2021.
John Metzinger stepped down from his role in October 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership change follows a period of modernization for Fort Wayne public transit, setting a new course as the agency navigates the implementation of its long-range Transit Tomorrow plan. The shift positions the agency to continue its focus on fleet electrification and digital payment integration against the backdrop of shifting local transportation needs.
Commuters can expect current service standards and ongoing projects like mobile ticketing to remain in place under interim leadership. The agency continues its focus on route improvements and expanded shelter access for all public transit users in the area.
The takeaway
The transition to interim leadership ensures that the agency maintains its current operational momentum regarding digital payment adoption. Residents should monitor the ongoing development of the long-range plan as the agency prepares for its next phase of transit expansion.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership, see Fort Wayne People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 21alivenews.
Live Poll
Should your local transit system prioritize high-demand routes over providing basic community-wide coverage?
