February 22, 2023 — Southwest Research Institute and ITS Texas are inviting college students and young professionals to participate in the inaugural Future Leaders Program at the 2023 ITS America Conference & Expo April 24-27 in Grapevine, Texas.
The new program is designed to inspire the next generation of leaders in the intelligent transportation systems (ITS) industry through a variety of activities at the ITS America Conference & Expo, which takes place this year at the Gaylord Texan Resort. Participants can attend education sessions and training and network with ITS professionals, exhibitors, sponsors and technology providers.
“The ITS sector needs smart and creative young people to develop the transportation infrastructure and technology of the future,” said Josh Johnson, director of SwRI’s Critical Systems Department.
Complimentary student registration includes access to the full education program, networking, refreshments and lunch. Benefits of attendance include:
- Networking with professionals, enhancing interview skills and learning about job opportunities.
- Discussing research and projects with peers and industry leaders.
- Participating in an exclusive walking tour with an ITS America and SwRI ambassador.
- Exploring innovative technologies through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
- Learning about ITSA connected and automated vehicle education (CAVe-in-a-box) training development.
“We are excited to team up with ITS Texas to develop exciting programming to inspire students and emerging young leaders to share ideas and explore careers in an impactful industry,” Johnson said.
The Future Leaders Program builds upon previous student outreach efforts, including the ITS World Congress Student Essay Competition, which SwRI sponsored for 11 years.
This year, instead of an essay, students have an opportunity to submit a 500-word ITS-related abstract that will be reviewed by SwRI, ITS Texas and ITS America Events. Five students will be chosen to present their abstracts at the ITS America Conference & Expo on April 26 in Grapevine. March 31 is the deadline to submit abstracts. To learn more, contact Minh Le, ITS Texas treasurer and student chapter liaison, at m-le@tti.tamu.edu.
Students are not required to submit an abstract to receive a complimentary registration to the conference and expo. For more information, visit https://www.itsamericaevents.com/expo/en-us/experiences/future-leaders-program.html.
For more information, visit Intelligent Transportation Systems or contact Robert Crowe, +1 210 522 4630, Communications Department, Southwest Research Institute, 6220 Culebra Road, San Antonio, TX 78238-5166.