Headquarters Public Affairs image
Sara Alqutami created the winning poster in the contest’s 7-to-10 age bracket. She is the daughter of District 6 transportation engineer Mohammed Alqutami.
By Jay Connerley
Headquarters public information officer
Each year, Caltrans holds a Safety Poster Contest open to all children and minor family members of department employees. The contest’s aim is to reinforce the message that safety is the responsibility of every person that uses the state’s vast transportation system to get them where they want to go.
Inspired by the theme of Caltrans’ 2026 contest – “Safety Begins Behind the Wheel” – four talented young artists’ posters were selected from more than 100 submissions for inclusion in the department’s Workers Memorial last April. Their artwork – originally 8x11-inch digital documents – were transformed into large, physical posters that were printed, mounted on easels, and displayed prominently at the West Sacramento event.
Cora Howell, the niece of District 1 environmental scientist Devin Sutfin, placed first in the 6-and-under category. Cora is a Girl Scout who likes to sing, ride her bicycle, jump on trampolines and do cartwheels.
Sara Alqutami, whose poster was the winner in the 7-to-10 age bracket, is the daughter of District 6 transportation engineer Mohammed Alqutami. Sara says reading, swimming, doing crafts and playing outside are among her favorite activities.
Isabela Williams, the daughter of Headquarters Legal Division Deputy Division Chief Dominique Williams, took first place in the 11-to-13 category. Isabela plays volleyball and softball and says that she really likes pickles and rock music.
Gautam Repaka, the son of Headquarters transportation engineer Sunil Repaka, was the winner in the 14-to-17 age group. Gautam plays basketball and tennis, says his hobbies include computer coding and travel, and likes to ride his electric bike to school.
Caltrans is gearing up for the 2027 Safety Poster Contest, so stay tuned for details about the new theme and how to enter!