2024 Innovation Invitational

July 2024 in San Antonio, Texas

The 2024 Innovation Invitational, held in San Antonio, marked a pivotal moment in the transportation technology and innovation landscape. The conference brought together transportation leaders from across the state and various industries, showcasing groundbreaking advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), connected and autonomous vehicles, data, renewable energy, connectivity and smart infrastructure, plus the plans for the 2026 World Cup.

The conference featured meticulously curated plenary sessions, each designed to address critical themes in the innovation ecosystem. From the ethical implications of AI to the future of renewable energy, these sessions provided deep insights and fostered meaningful dialogue among participants.

The conference was hosted by TxDOT and the UT Center for Transportation Research (CTR). Notable speakers included Chairman Robert Nichols of the Texas Senate Transportation Committee, Texas Senator Kelly Hancock, Jennifer Harris of the US Department of Commerce, San Antonio Councilwoman Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia, and former US Housing and Urban Development Secretary Henry Cisneros.

Key highlights

Cutting-Edge Technology Showcases: Participants were introduced to the latest innovations across multiple sectors, including AI-powered automation, next-gen renewable energy solutions, and advanced healthcare technologies.
Thought-Provoking Keynotes: Renowned speakers, including top industry leaders and visionary entrepreneurs, shared insights on the future of technology, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and ethical innovation.
Interactive Workshops and Demos: Attendees had the opportunity to engage with emerging technologies through hands-on workshops and live demonstrations, offering a glimpse into the future of smart cities, autonomous systems, and digital transformation.
Networking and Collaboration: The event facilitated valuable networking opportunities, connecting innovators, investors, and thought leaders. Collaborative discussions focused on driving forward the next wave of technological advancements.
Spotlight on Education and STEM: A significant emphasis was placed on supporting education and STEM initiatives, recognizing the role of the next generation in shaping the future of innovation.

Agenda

The 2024 Innovation Invitational was not just a conference but a hub of inspiration, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas, setting the stage for the next era of technological breakthroughs.

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STAR award winners

Which regional teams won the 2024 Smart Transportation & Advanced Roadway awards?

View winners

Texas Senators Robert Nichols and Kelly Hancock
An autonomous vehicle on display at the Tech Showcase.
Former HUD Secretary Henry Cisneros, Emily Royall of City of San Antonio, and Beto Altamirano of Irys
Vendors and attendees at the Tech Showcase.
TxDOT Executive Deputy Director Brandy Hendrickson speaks at the 2024 Innovation Invitational.
An attendee at the conference tests and e-bike at the Tech Showcase.
TxDOT Director of Strategy and Innovation Darran Anderson speaks at the 2024 Innovation Invitational conference.
Texas Senator Kelly Hancock, Jennifer Harris from the US Dept of Commerce, and Anita Kim from Torc Robotics on a panel at the Innovation Invitational conference.
Moderator Trish DeBerry of Centro introduces the next panel.
Moderator Carlo Capua from City of Fort Worth speaks to Monica Paul of Dallas Sports Commission during a panel at the Innovation Invitational conference.
Former HUD Secretary Henry Cisneros provides opening remarks at the Innovation Invitational conference.
Middle and high school STEM students were invited to the Tech Showcase.
Director of TxDOT's Strategic Initiatives and Innovation Division Erika Kemp provides opening remarks at the Innovation Invitational conference.
Middle and high school STEM students viewed an autonomous truck at the Tech Showcase.
San Antonio Director of Transportation Cat Hernandez provides remarks at the welcome reception kicking off the Innovation Invitational conference.
Vice President of Technology & Innovation, VIA Metropolitan Transit, Brian Dillard provides welcoming remarks at the Innovation Invitational conference.
Vendors and attendees at the Tech Showcase.
City of San Antonio Councilwoman Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia provides opening remarks at the Innovation Invitational conference.
Moderator David Zipper of MIT Mobility Initiative speaks with Justine Johnson of MEDC and Jim Perschbach of Port SA during a “Fireside Chat” at the Innovation Invitational conference.
A delivery robot at the Tech Showcase.