Plenary Sessions

Opening Plenary
Monday, October 22, 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Room 108-110

Our keynote speaker is Mr. John Halikowski, Director of the Arizona Department of Transportation. John will share his perspective on the promise of advanced ITS technologies and the challenges to our organizations to lead and deploy them in a meaningful way in collaboration with the private sector. Appointed in 2009, John is one of the longest tenured leaders of a state DOT.  He leads an agency responsible for planning, building and maintaining the state’s multimodal transportation system, managing transportation revenue, and providing motor vehicle title, registration and driver license services. Prior to his executive role with Arizona DOT, John refined his transportation policy expertise during 12 years as the director of research at the Arizona House of Representatives, where he researched, presented and drafted major transportation-related legislation. In addition, he has served in leadership roles with the Transportation Research Board and AASHTO.  He also served as past President, WASHTO; Chair AASHTO Standing Committee on Research, ITS Leadership Council, HELP Inc. Board of Directors and TRB Executive Committee.

ITS Arizona 25th Anniversary Plenary
Tuesday October 23, 1:15 – 2:45 p.m.
Room 108-110

ITS Arizona was founded in 1994 by a team of transportation professionals with the vision and dedication to improving our transportation system operations and safety.  Our membership has grown to over 300 members, including public agencies, private corporations and academic institutions.  We are excited to be celebrating our 25th Anniversary at this year’s 2018 joint conference with NRITS.  As part of this event, we will recognize the dedication and leadership of ITS Arizona past presidents and present board, our members, exhibitors/sponsors, volunteers, and those who have contributed to ITS Arizona foundation and growth. Join us while we stroll down memory lane- Where we came from, where we are, and where we are going.

Closing Plenary
Wednesday, October 24, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Room 108-110

Be sure to stay to the end of this year’s meeting for an engaging conversation between Maricopa County Director Jennifer Toth and William T. Panos, Director and Chief Executive Officer, Wyoming Department of Transportation as they discuss the implications of advanced technology on the future of transportation safety, system management, and public agency operations.  What are the key factors that influence our ability to manage and improve the transportation system effectively?   What can we do now using innovative approaches to improve safety and reliability of travel while reducing our environmental footprint?  How will the transportation agency of the future need to evolve to meet the changing needs of its customers? What role will technology play in eventually eliminating fatalities and reducing serious injuries on our roadways??  These and other questions will be part of this provocative and forward-looking discussion.