Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is to sponsor the 2025 Future Leaders Program at the ITS World Congress, hosted by RX and ITS America (ITSA). This year’s event will take place August 24–28 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia.
The Future Leaders Program brings together emerging talent in intelligent transportation systems (ITS), offering students access to educational sessions, hands-on training, and networking opportunities with global ITS professionals, exhibitors, and technology leaders.
University students worldwide are invited to submit essays envisioning the future of transportation. One winner from each region – Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Americas – will be awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to present their ideas at ITS World Congress 2025 in Atlanta.
“We’re committed to empowering the next generation of transportation innovators by giving them a platform to share their ideas globally,” said Laura Chace, President and CEO of ITS America. “These students will help shape the future of safer, smarter, and more sustainable mobility.”
Participants must address regional transportation challenges aligned with the 2025 conference theme, “Deploying Today, Empowering Tomorrow.” A panel of judges from ITS Asia-Pacific, ITS America, ERTICO, and SwRI will select regional finalists and ultimately three global winners.
“The Future Leaders Program offers students a unique opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders,” said Josh Johnson, Executive Director of SwRI’s Intelligent Transportation Systems Department. “Presenting at ITS World Congress gives them invaluable experience and visibility.”
A full day of programming is scheduled for Wednesday, August 27, featuring expert roundtables, guided exhibit tours, and resume reviews at the SwRI booth. Students from around the world, including local Atlanta-area groups, will participate in sessions designed to inspire careers in transportation technology.
“ITS World Congress is a launchpad for students pursuing careers in intelligent transportation,” said Jaime McAuley, Event Director for ITS America Events at RX Global. “Winners receive conference access, airfare, and exclusive networking opportunities with potential employers and mentors.”
Students can register and view submission guidelines. The deadline for submissions is June 2, 2025, with winners announced on July 1, 2025.
