August 3–6 in Miami, FL
The 2025 APTAtech conference brought together transportation technology leaders, public agencies, and industry innovators to explore the future of mobility through AI, data, automation, and innovation culture. For a research center focused on making streets safer and more livable, attending APTAtech provided CS3 a front-row seat to the tools, partnerships, and emerging trends reshaping transportation and infrastructure—from artificial intelligence and data governance to the real-world rollout of automation. These insights inform not just academic work, but practical applications and collaborative opportunities with agencies and industry alike.
Below are short recaps of key sessions and highlights from the expo.
AI Solutions for Modern Mobility
Panelists: MioVision, CITYROVER, ConnX
- AI is already improving transit operations through real-time data and automation, even if quietly.
- CITYROVER shared results from an 8-bus deployment in York Region, Canada, using cameras to detect transit infrastructure conditions (e.g., damage to infrastructure, incidents, and hazards).
- ConnX presented SEPTA’s use of AI to improve safety and efficiency across the system.
CINO Roundtable
Panelists: Chief Innovation Officers from DART, COTA, Monterey-Salinas Transit, AC Transit, and WMATA
- Successful innovation requires building relationships and trust internally.
- Innovation leaders emphasized humility, curiosity, and a “no-fear” culture where all ideas are welcomed.
- “Culture eats strategy for breakfast”—technology and strategy succeeds when supported by people and systems.
The Shift to Self-Driving Vehicles
Panelists: Via, WSP, Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), Beep, Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA)
- WSP and TTI’s YARD pilot retrofitted a CapMetro bus for AV operations; workforce development and remote dispatch are next steps.
- CCTA’s PRESTO AV pilots in California (including a hospital-serving wheelchair accessible AV) emphasize OEM-grade vehicles and partnerships with unions like ATU for AV operator training.
- Success depends on policy alignment, vehicle standards, and long-term workforce transformation.
Data Governance in Public Transit
Panelists: AC Transit, Jarvis Innovations, San Mateo County Transit
- Agencies stressed the importance of data stewardship to responsibly implement AI.
- Clear governance frameworks ensure data quality, security, and appropriate use.
- Strong internal practices prepare transit systems for scalable AI deployment.
Innovation on the Expo Floor
The expo hall was a showcase of cutting-edge mobility solutions:
- BusPas, a CS3 industry member, demoed their smart signage platform and showcased their latest deployment with the City of Miami Beach.
- CITYROVER gave a close look at its edge-based AI camera system used in live deployments.
- Industry leaders like Spare, Via, and Transit were on hand, highlighting new tools and platforms designed to make transit more responsive, integrated, and user-friendly.
Final Thoughts
APTAtech 2025 had several clear through lines:
- Invisible intelligence, especially AI, is embedding itself into mobility quietly but meaningfully.
- Success hinges not on technology alone, but on people-centric cultures, inter-agency collaboration, and intentional workforce development.
- Autonomous transit is still gaining traction, but it requires policy, standardized equipment, and human upskilling.
- Long-term innovation demands strong data governance frameworks.
As the industry moves forward, APTAtech 2025 reinforced that true innovation is about more than just tools; it’s about culture, collaboration, and a workforce ready to lead the next generation of mobility.