KDOT Innovative Technology Summit
The 2026 Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Innovative Technology Summit will take place on August 19, 2026 in Lawrence, Kansas.
What is KITS about?
The event centers on showcasing innovative transportation technologies, research projects, and real-world applications funded through the Kansas Department of Transportation Innovative Technology Program.
Attendees can expect programming that includes:
- Presentations on emerging transportation technologies and pilot projects
- Research showcases from universities and industry partners
- Discussions on safety, mobility, connectivity, and smart infrastructure
- Networking opportunities between public agencies, private companies, and academic institutions
- Exhibits and sponsor/vendor demonstrations featuring innovative transportation solutions
- Conversations around future-focused topics such as intelligent transportation systems, connected technologies, drones/UAS, software infrastructure, transit innovation, and transportation data systems
The summit is also intended to create a collaborative environment where transportation professionals can share lessons learned, explore new partnerships, and discuss implementation strategies for innovative technologies across Kansas communities.
Who should attend?
The summit is open to a broad range of transportation and technology professionals, including:
- State and local transportation agency staff
- Engineers and planners
- Researchers and university faculty
- Students interested in transportation and technology careers
- Consultants and private-sector transportation firms
- Technology providers and vendors
- Transit professionals
- Aviation, rail, and UAS stakeholders
- Community and economic development leaders
- Sponsors, exhibitors, and project partners
The event is designed to encourage cross-sector collaboration between public, private, and academic organizations involved in transportation innovation.
What can attendees expect?
Attendees can expect a full day of professional learning, networking, and exposure to cutting-edge transportation ideas and technologies. The summit will provide opportunities to:
- Learn about successful innovative transportation projects across Kansas
- Hear from industry experts, agency leaders, and researchers
- Discover funding opportunities and implementation strategies
- Explore new technologies and products through exhibitors and sponsors
- Build partnerships with transportation professionals from across the region
- Gain insight into future transportation trends and statewide innovation priorities
Participants can also expect an interactive atmosphere focused on practical applications and knowledge sharing rather than purely academic discussion. The summit emphasizes solutions that improve transportation safety, efficiency, accessibility, and connectivity for Kansas communities.
When:
August 19, 2026
Where:
The University of Kansas
Learned Engineering Expansion Phase 2 (LEEP 2)
1536 W 15th St, Lawrence, KS 66045