Projects Shaping the Future: AI & Innovation Poster Showcase
Application Deadline: Friday, October 9
Artificial Intelligence is transforming how transportation agencies plan, deliver, communicate, and serve their communities.
The Self-Help Counties Coalition (SHCC) invites agencies, consultants, technology partners, and industry leaders to share innovative projects, AI-powered solutions, and forward-thinking initiatives that are reshaping the transportation workplace.
As part of the 2026 Focus on the Future Conference, the Projects Shaping the Future: AI & Innovation Poster Showcase will highlight practical applications of artificial intelligence alongside other innovative transportation projects that improve efficiency, decision-making, customer service, project delivery, and organizational performance.
Selected posters will be displayed throughout the conference and featured during an interactive networking session where attendees can connect directly with presenters.
WHO SHOULD APPLY
We welcome submissions from public agencies, consultants, technology providers, universities, non-profits, and partner organizations working to advance transportation through innovation.
Poster topics may include transportation projects, emerging technologies, organizational innovations, or practical applications of Artificial Intelligence in the workplace.
Marketing or sales materials promoting a specific product or company will not be considered.
Examples include:
- AI-assisted planning and project delivery
- Generative AI tools improving employee productivity
- Predictive analytics and asset management
- AI for customer service and public engagement
- Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
- Digital twins and data visualization
- AI governance and responsible implementation
- Workforce development and organizational change
- Innovative transportation programs and partnerships
- Research shaping the future of transportation
SELECTION CRITERIA
- Relevance: Demonstrates innovative thinking and aligns with the conference theme of AI in the Workplace and the future of transportation.
- Originality & Quality: The strength and innovation of the ideas presented.
- Value to Attendees: Lessons learned and takeaways that can be applied across projects and programs.
- Completeness: A thorough, well-developed application.
Selection Guidelines — Selections will be based on:
- Relevance of the topic submitted to the 2026 Focus on the Future;
- Originality and quality of ideas;
- Value of content and lessons learned to conference attendees; and
- Completeness of application.
HOW TO APPLY
Ready to participate? Download the application using the button to the left, complete it, and email your submission to Jenny Devine at selfhelpcounties@gmail.com by Friday, October 9, 2026. The SHCC Executive Director and Focus on the Future Conference Planning Committee will review all submissions and select posters that best reflect the 2026 program.
POSTER SESSION LOGISTICS
The Focus on the Future Poster Session provides an opportunity for agencies, consultants, researchers, and industry partners to showcase innovative transportation projects, programs, research, and emerging solutions that are helping shape the future of mobility in California.
Poster Specifications
Poster Size
- Maximum size: 36″ H × 48″ W (landscape orientation recommended)
- Posters should be designed for easy viewing and engagement by conference attendees.
Printed Poster
- Posters should be professionally printed in full color.
- Laminated posters are strongly encouraged to improve durability and presentation quality.
- Posters may be mounted on lightweight backing material or submitted as a laminated standalone poster.
- Push pins and display materials will be provided onsite.
Digital Submission
To extend the reach of the Poster Session beyond the conference, all accepted presenters must also submit:
- A high-resolution PDF version of their poster
- One representative project image (optional)
- Presenter contact information for attendee follow-up
Digital posters will be made available through the conference website and/or mobile app for attendee reference before and after the event.
Setup & Display
- Poster setup must be completed by 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 15, 2026.
- Each poster station will include an identification sign and display materials.
- Posters will remain on display throughout the conference unless otherwise instructed.
Poster Session Presentation
Formal Poster Session | Monday, November 16, 2026 | 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Presenters (or a project representative) are expected to be available at their poster during the full session to engage with attendees, answer questions, and discuss project outcomes, lessons learned, and future applications.
Optional Featured Spotlight
Selected poster presenters may be invited to participate in a brief recorded interview highlighting their project and its relevance to the future of transportation. Featured interviews may be shared through conference communications and digital platforms. Interviews will take place after the conference, via Zoom.
