Title: Administrator
Company: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation
Location: Flagler Beach, Florida, United States
Derek D. Barrs, administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration at the U.S. Department of Transportation, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in transportation and infrastructure.
Honored for a professional life stretching across nearly 35 years, Mr. Barrs is noted for his expertise in the worlds of infrastructure and transportation, although his interest in those topics actually began through his roles in law enforcement. In 1991, he became a deputy sheriff at the Madison County Sheriff’s Department, alternating between highway patrol and school resource duties. Through the latter responsibility in particular, Mr. Barrs embraced opportunities to mentor students and connect with his community on a deep level. As a deputy sheriff, he prided himself on civic engagement, participating in local clubs and taking part in community activities.
After establishing himself in law enforcement, Mr. Barrs transitioned into a series of roles with the Florida Highway Patrol in 2001. Across nearly 20 years with this organization, he rose through the ranks to reach his final position as bureau chief in commercial vehicle enforcement. Working in collaboration with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Mr. Barrs oversaw audits, command operations and investigations. During this time, he also familiarized himself with efforts to improve motor vehicle safety and reduce roadway fatalities.
Building on this expertise, Mr. Barrs retired from law enforcement in 2020 and joined HNTB as a deputy program manager. Founded in 1914, HNTB is one of the biggest infrastructure firms in the United States, with a specialty in transportation systems and public safety. In 2023, Mr. Barrs was promoted to associate vice president of the company, demonstrating the value of his contributions. During his time with HNTB, he has been a key part of highway safety and commercial vehicle projects across Florida and other states.
Concurrently with his position at HNTB, Mr. Barrs served as a school board member at Flagler Schools beginning in 2024. This endeavor reflected the importance he places on education in his local community. In 2025, Mr. Barrs was recognized for his skills when he was nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as the administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. As part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, he will partner with state governments and law enforcement organizations across the U.S. to support the goal of improving traffic enforcement, roadway safety, transportation education and more.
In order to further back up his credentials in his primary vocation, Mr. Barrs has pursued education and training throughout his journey. He earned a Bachelor of Science in public administration from Flagler College in 2012. Subsequently, Mr. Barr completed certification as a law enforcement officer through North Florida College in 2019. He has received a Life-Saving Award and was named Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in 2006.
In addition to his professional life, Mr. Barrs is a proud father to two grown sons, 24-year-old Bentley and 28-year-old Brett. He fills his free time by taking walks on the beach, doing yard work, playing golf and being an active member of his community. Looking to the future, Mr. Barrs is excited for his new role as administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, where he intends to focus on reducing highway injuries and fatalities, especially those involving large trucks and buses. He also hopes to dedicate more time to mentoring others.
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