ITS Conference & Expo
June 9-12, 2026
Huntington Place, Detroit, Michigan

FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM


EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ITS INNOVATORS

Welcome to the Future Leaders Program at ITS America Conference & Expo. Whether you are a young professional or a student, this program is designed to inspire, educate, and connect the future leaders of the intelligent transportation systems industry.

Choose your path below to explore the opportunities waiting for you.



YOUNG PROFESSIONALS, GRADUATE, & UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

The Future Leaders Program offers graduate and undergraduate students a unique platform to dive into the world of ITS. Here’s what you can look forward to.

Education Sessions & Trainings

Gain insights from industry experts and thought leaders through engaging sessions and hands-on workshops.

Networking Opportunities

Meet exhibitors, sponsors, and technology providers, and connect with professionals who can offer career guidance and mentorship.

Essay Competition

Participate in the ITS America Conference & Expo Essay Competition! Respond to a challenge aligned with program themes for a chance to present your solution during the Future Leaders Program on June 11.

Discounted Registration

Students can register for just $25, which includes full access to education sessions, networking activities, refreshments, and lunch.



HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Are you a high school student interested in engineering or intelligent transportation? The Future Leaders Program offers an exciting opportunity to experience the ITS America Conference & Expo firsthand.

Education Sessions & Trainings

Gain insights from industry experts and thought leaders through engaging sessions and hands-on workshops.

Networking Opportunities

Meet exhibitors, sponsors, and technology providers, and connect with professionals who can offer career guidance and mentorship.

Discounted Registration

Students can register for just $25, which includes full access to education sessions, networking activities, refreshments, and lunch.

Square One Education Network

A Michigan-based nonprofit that provides hands-on STEM experiences for K–12 students. Their Innovative Vehicle Design projects offer real-world, career-focused learning opportunities. A selected group of students will attend the conference to showcase their work.



PAVE ESSAY COMPETITION

The PAVE Essay Contest and Scholarship Program is an initiative that encourages young adults to contemplate a future with automated vehicles by writing about what this technology could mean for their communities, the economy, and the transportation system as a whole. The contest, which is held in a different state each year, is open to Michigan high school students for the 2025-2026 school year. 

After the conclusion of the submission period, a committee of industry experts selects the top essays. Winners receive scholarship funds provided by contest sponsors, and the participating students are invited to attend an awards ceremony and autonomous vehicle demonstration at ITS America Conference & Expo 2026. More information coming soon. 


CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMING 

Build Your Future in ITS

No matter your level, ITS America Conference & Expo offers career development programming to help you grow. Join campfire-style sessions in the Transportation Hub to learn about ITS career pathways, emerging roles in the sector, LinkedIn profile development, and other career-building insights. 


Bringing together the intelligent transportation community.