The 2026 WTS International Annual Conference is set to bring together transportation leaders and professionals from across the United States and Canada. The event will take place from May 5 to May 7, 2026, at The Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles, California. Organized by WTS International, the conference aims to foster an inspiring exchange of ideas, leadership, and innovation within the transportation sector.
Network and Impact
WTS International boasts a network of 73 chapters spanning the United States and Canada. This extensive reach strengthens cross-border collaboration and brings together diverse perspectives and regional expertise. The organization remains committed to advancing women in transportation on an international scale, making this conference a pivotal event for promoting gender diversity and professional growth in the industry.
Leadership Transition
A significant highlight of this year's conference is the leadership transition within WTS International. The association will honor outgoing Board Chair Bridgette Beato, Founder and CEO of Lumenor Consulting Group, and welcome incoming Chair Erin Slayton, Senior Vice President at HDR, along with new board members. Beato expressed enthusiasm for the conference, stating, "This conference is a chance to connect, share ideas, and spark collaborations that will shape the future of transportation. I'm excited for the conversations and momentum we'll build over the coming days and the impact we'll create among WTS members, partners, and sponsors."
Keynote Speaker
The conference will feature keynote speaker Alana M. Hill, PMP, CSP, who will present "What's Your Catalyst? Leading, Rising, and Thriving in Transportation." Hill will explore how women in transportation navigate pressure while moving people, systems, and industries forward. As an international change leadership consultant and former engineer with over 25 years of experience, Hill brings valuable insights from leading global teams and driving transformation in energy and technology sectors.
Plenary Sessions and Distinguished Guests
The conference includes compelling plenary sessions, such as a "Fireside Chat with Transportation Leaders Shaping America's Future." This session will feature Seval Oz, Assistant Secretary Nominee at the United States Department of Transportation; Russell R. McMurry, P Eng, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation and President of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials; and Leanne Redden, CEO of Regional Transportation Authority, Chicago and Chair of the American Public Transportation Association.
Distinguished guests include Adetokunbo "Toks" Omishakin, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency, and Marie Therese Dominguez, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Transportation. Dominguez will be honored with the 2026 Women of the Year Award during the conference gala. Additionally, WTS will recognize recipients of the WTS International Recognition Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions to the transportation industry and inspiring transformative actions. The gala will also honor recipients of the WTS Foundation Scholarships and Strategic Partner Scholarships, highlighting their role in shaping the future of transportation.
