Business student places second in innovation competition

Jonathan Rasmussen, a senior majoring in operations and supply chain management in the Belk College of Business, received $250 and second-place honors in the undergraduate division of the student competition at Innovate Carolina. This annual conference is organized by the Product Development and Management Association (PDMA) Carolinas chapter.

Rasmussen’s concept is to improve public transportation through new technologies like mobile pay, smart apps and partnerships that will improve the convenience, reliability and quality of service.

“Better public transportation will improve the quality of life for everyone in the region,” Rasmussen said.

He developed the idea after observing how public transportation – especially buses – weren’t using new technologies or applications. “I love the opportunity to solve problems. Years ago I rode the bus daily for school and work. It was a frustrating experience and I knew that it could be improved,” he said.

Rasmussen’s concept utilizes mobile pay and membership options for bus and light rail riders. “Currently CATS buses and light rail require cash, with exact change, for rides. Not many people carry pockets full of change these days, and this outdated technology has become one of the easiest hindrances to resolve,” he said. In addition, his concept included “smart” bus stops that allow riders to use their mobile phone technology to request stops or pickups.

“As a business student at UNC Charlotte, I learned about how more reliable public transportation is of benefit to everyone: safer for drivers, less wear on roads, less congestion and obviously for people using the services. As the construction for the Blue Line Extension of the LYNX light rail continues, better public transportation is on my mind with every commute to campus,” he said.