April 16 - 17 , 2026
About the Conference
The 2026 R-SEAT Annual UTC Conference explores how cutting-edge technologies are reshaping transportation systems across rural landscapes. This year's event highlights innovative research and strategic collaboration in advancing safe, efficient, and innovative transportation options in rural communities.
Automated Vehicles and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
Mobility, MaaS, Ridehailing, and Public Transit Solutions
Resilience in Infrastructure and Emergency Response
Transportation Safety and Risk Mitigation
About R-SEAT Center
The Rural Safe Efficient and Advanced Transportation (R-SEAT) Center was established in early 2023 by the U.S. Department of Transportation. We are a consortium of six institutions dedicated to advancing safe, efficient, and innovative transportation options in rural communities.
Conference Agenda
The Rural Safe Efficient and Advanced Transportation (R-SEAT) Center was established in early 2023 by the U.S. Department of Transportation. We are a consortium of six institutions dedicated to advancing safe, efficient, and innovative transportation options in rural communities.
Day 1 - Thursday, April 16, 2026
Topic: What 's the perception of transformation from a user's point of view
| 8:00AM - 9:00AM | Breakfast and Registration |
| 9:00AM - 9:20AM | Welcome and Introductions |
| 9:20AM - 9:30AM | Workshop Session Overview |
| 9:30AM - 10:00AM | Workshop Instructions |
| 10:00AM - 12:00PM | Workshop Session Begins |
| 12:00PM - 1:00PM | Lunch |
| 1:00PM - 2:00PM | Live Demonstration |
| 2:00PM - 3:00PM | Student Poster Presentations |
Day 2 - Friday, April 17, 2026
Topic: How are transportation technologies and related infrastructure scalable between rural and urban areas?
| 8:30AM - 9:30AM | Breakfast |
| 9:30AM - 9:45AM | Welcome Back! |
| 9:45AM - 10:00AM | Overview Panel Discussion |
| 10:00AM - 11:00AM | Panel Discussion Begins |
| 10:00AM - 12:00PM | Workshop Session Begins |
| 11:00AM - 12:00PM | Lunch |
| 12:00PM - 2:00PM | Student Presentations |
Conference Speakers
Conference Speakers
Christian Levings
Emergency Management Department Head,
Apalachee Regional Planning Council (ARPC)
Dr. Tierra S. Bills
Assistant Professor,
Public Policy & Civil Engineering at UCLA
Dr. Raj Ponnaluri
Manager of Emerging Technologies
(formerly State Connected Vehicles & Arteril Management Engineer),
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)
Dr. Rupert R. Giroux
Safety Data Coordinator,
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) State Safety Office
Register Today
Join researchers, industry experts, and students shaping the future of rural transportation technology.
April 16 - 17 , 2026