PEORIA, Ill. (AP) Peoria-based Caterpillar Inc. has hired former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood as a consultant.

The Journal Star reported that the former Illinois congressman will be the company’s representative on policy matters. LaHood was transportation secretary from 2009 to 2013, when he retired from the Obama administration. Since then he has said he will lecture at Bradley University, work with the Chicago law firm DLA-Piper and the Dirksen Congressional Center in Pekin.

Caterpillar spokeswoman Molly Donahue said LaHood will help the company develop corporate strategies. The company said it will benefit from LaHood’s "deep expertise in infrastructure planning and investment and manufacturing in the United States."

Today's top stories

Construction Industry Optimistically Preparing for New Year Ahead

CFX Oversees $412M SR429 Expansion in Florida

Capital Express Central Project Ramps Up in Texas

VIDEO: NCDOT Plans Major Road Upgrades in Wilmington Over Next Several Years

DEVELON Set to Exhibit at ARA Show 2025

Des Moines Airport Works With Weitz/Turner On Expansion

Earthborne Demo Day Draws Crowd Despite Downpour

National Equipment League — Heavy Equipment Operation as a Professional Sport — Launches Season Two