Begeman has served as a senior aide on Capitol Hill for 21 years, playing a role in crafting major transportation legislation, including the ICC Termination Act, which created the STB.
Immediately prior to joining the STB, Begeman served as Republican staff director for the Senate Commerce Committee. She has also served as acting chief of staff and legislative director for Sen. John McCain and as a legislative assistant to Sen. Larry Pressler. In addition, Begeman has worked in the private sector, serving as a benefits specialist for First American Bankshares.
She was first nominated by President Obama on Dec. 20 and again on Jan. 5, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on April 14, for a term that expires Dec. 31, 2015. Begeman was then named vice chairman by the STB, a role that rotates between members each year. She was sworn in by STB Commissioner Francis P. Mulvey.
