Partnership. Progress. Impact.
By Nick Stanton
In an industry where big announcements and major initiatives often steal the spotlight, the true drivers of progress can sometimes go unnoticed. These are the individuals who make things happen behind the scenes—solving problems, building relationships, and pushing the industry forward in ways that don’t always make headlines.
Kristen Locke, Director of Technical Sales and Partnerships at ParkMobile, is one of those people. While flashy innovation and high-profile deals tend to grab attention, it’s professionals like Kristen who ensure that those initiatives actually work in the real world.
Making Innovation Work
With a deep understanding of the intersection between technology, operations, and customer experience, Kristen has spent years navigating the complex world of parking and mobility. She’s not just focused on adoption; she’s committed to making sure that municipalities, operators, and end users alike see real, tangible benefits from the solutions they implement.
A major part of Kristen’s impact has been in building and strengthening ParkMobile’s partnership team, forging key relationships that have driven some of the biggest changes in the parking, mobility, and EV industries. Through her work with Athena Partners Strategy Group, she has helped create a foundation for transformative collaborations that push the industry forward. Beyond this, she has been integral in developing partnerships with a wide range of companies, embodying a collaborative “rising tides” mentality that ensures everyone benefits from progress. Historically, it’s professionals like Kristen—who focus on execution and meaningful cooperation—who end up shaping industries more than anyone else, even if they don’t always get the recognition they deserve.
A Connector, A Builder, A Doer
What sets Kristen apart is her ability to cut through industry noise and get things done. She builds trust not just by talking about collaboration, but by proving—through action—that she is a true partner to those she works with. Whether it’s troubleshooting implementation challenges, helping clients maximize ParkMobile’s capabilities, or advocating for user-friendly improvements, Kristen is always pushing for better outcomes.
Kristen’s impact extends beyond partnerships—she is a leader who brings technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and unwavering support to those around her. Known for her ability to tackle the most complex challenges, Kristen is often the go-to person when others hit roadblocks. Whether it’s troubleshooting system integrations, optimizing operational workflows, or navigating industry regulations, she has a reputation for finding solutions that others overlook.
"Having worked with Kristen Locke for years, I’ve seen firsthand her ability to tackle the toughest challenges, build strategic partnerships, and drive real progress. Her technical expertise and problem-solving skills make her an invaluable asset, and her dedication to collaboration sets a standard for the entire industry. Kristen’s impact on parking and mobility is undeniable, and her contributions continue to push the industry forward in meaningful ways,” said Andy Harman, Vice President of Sales at ParkMobile.
At the same time, Kristen is deeply committed to supporting those she works with. She provides mentorship, guidance, and practical insights to colleagues, clients, and partners alike, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge needed to succeed. Her leadership is not about titles or authority—it’s about enabling others to perform at their best and driving progress that benefits the entire industry.
The parking and mobility space is evolving rapidly, with technology driving new opportunities and challenges. But the industry needs more than just innovation—it needs execution. Kristen Locke embodies that mindset, ensuring that progress isn’t just an idea but a reality.
About Kristen Locke
Kristen Locke, CAPP, serves as the Director of Technical Sales and Partnerships at ParkMobile, where she plays a pivotal role in driving the company's success. Beyond her responsibilities at ParkMobile, Kristen is actively involved in the parking and transportation industry. She holds the position of Vice Chair and Chair of the Conference Committee for the Pacific Intermountain Parking & Transportation Association (PIPTA). Kristen's expertise and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the future of mobility and parking solutions.
So while others may take center stage, let’s take a moment to recognize the individuals like Kristen who are working every day to shape the future of mobility in meaningful, lasting ways.
Unsung Heroes: Recognizing the Real Industry Movers
Unsung Heroes is an initiative by Athena Partners Strategy Group that highlights the individuals who make a real impact in the parking, mobility, and transportation industries—often quietly from behind the scenes. These are the doers, the problem-solvers, and the quiet forces behind meaningful progress. We are always looking for the next industry professional to spotlight, and we invite anyone in the industry to submit their nominations. If you know someone who deserves recognition for their hard work and dedication, reach out to us anytime—we’re committed to showcasing those who truly drive change.
About Athena Partners Strategy Group
Athena’s exclusive focus on parking technology delivers unmatched insight and results, proven by hundreds of success stories from industry leaders who have transformed their operations with our expertise. As a premier technology representation and consultancy, APSG leverages a specialized network of partners to guide organizations in developing new business and launching innovative solutions across parking, transportation, curb management, rideshare, law enforcement, public safety, and EV charging sectors. Learn more at athenapsg.com.
Written by Nick Stanton, Managing Partner, Athena Partners Strategy Group info@athenapsg.com
Comments