As part of Q-Free’s commitment to promoting leadership within the intelligent transportation sector, we’re proud to highlight three of our team members who have recently stepped into prominent industry leadership roles in 2025.

These leaders are making waves in their respective fields, shaping the future of transportation, and driving innovation.

Patrick Marnell: President of ITE Western District

Patrick Marnell, Director of Product Management at Q-Free, has recently taken on the prestigious role of ITE Western District President. Since joining Q-Free in 2019, Patrick has consistently demonstrated his leadership, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise. His rapid rise within the company reflects his dedication to advancing the transportation industry, and his new position within ITE solidifies his role as a driving force in shaping the future of mobility.

Patrick’s career achievements have been recognized by his alma mater, Oregon State University, where he received the Council of Outstanding Early Career Engineers Award. Additionally, his dedication to mentoring young engineers earned him the Mentor Award from the ITE Western District.

As president of the ITE Western District, Patrick is eager to contribute to the growth and development of the transportation profession in the region while continuing to drive innovation for the global ITS space.

Trisha Tunilla: ITS California Board Member

Trisha Tunilla, Q-Free’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for ITS California—one of the nation’s leading ITS organizations. A lifelong Californian, Trisha has dedicated her career to advancing the role of technology in improving mobility and safety. Her board involvement marks an exciting new chapter where she aims to influence policies and foster innovation within her home state.

With over 16 years in the industry, Trisha’s leadership extends beyond her role at Q-Free, having co-founded the #FREEtheMIBS campaign and served as Co-Chair of the Industry Council at ITE. Trisha is passionate about using her platform to educate policymakers on the benefits of ITS technologies, ultimately working to improve transportation for communities across California and the nation.

Chris Sobie: President of ITE Mountain District

Q-Free Project Manager Chris Sobie recently stepped into the role of President of the ITE Mountain District. An active member of ITE for some time, Chris’s appointment as president underscores his impact on the industry. His leadership in the Mountain District will help shape the direction of transportation innovation across the region and beyond.

Chris’s journey at Q-Free began in 2019. He plays an integral role in managing client relationships and driving solutions that improve traffic management systems. As president of the Mountain District, he’s committed to collaborating with industry professionals to create safer, more efficient transportation systems. At Q-Free and within ITE, Chris fosters the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that make a difference in communities nationwide.

A Commitment to Leadership and Innovation

Patrick, Trisha, and Chris’s new leadership roles exemplify Q-Free’s commitment to fostering talent and supporting the growth of intelligent transportation. As the transportation landscape continues to evolve, we are excited to see the impact that their leadership will have on the future of mobility. These individuals are not only leaders within Q-Free but also passionate advocates for advancing the transportation industry at large.

We look forward to seeing how they continue to shape the future of transportation and inspire others to lead with purpose.