Events / Annual Conferences / Fall Conference & Expo
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Monterey, California • October 28–30, 2026

Register Now Become a Sponsor/Exhibitor

Welcome to the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo!

Join the California Transit Association in Monterey, California from October 28–30, 2026, for the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo, presented by Accenture.

Hosted in partnership with Monterey-Salinas Transit, this multi-day event will take place at the Portola Hotel & Spa and adjacent Monterey Conference Center, bringing together transit leaders, agency staff, and industry partners from across the state.

Attendees can expect content-rich general sessions and breakouts, an interactive Expo Hall, technical tours, and valuable networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and share best practices across California’s transit community. The conference offers a dynamic space to explore innovative solutions, engage with peers, and gain insights into the issues shaping the future of public transportation.

The Early Bird deadline is September 1, 2026.

Register today, and join us in Monterey!

At a Glance

  • Who: Agency leaders, transit professionals, operations staff, industry partners, and vendors
  • What: In-person conference featuring general sessions, breakout sessions, an exhibit hall, and networking events
  • When: October 28–30, 2026
  • Where: Monterey, California

Timely Topics

Explore the latest trends and pressing issues impacting California transit agencies.

Meaningful Connections

Build relationships with peers, industry leaders, and business partners from across the state.

Innovative Solutions

Discover tools, products, and services designed to strengthen and support transit operations.

Program Details

Conference programming will feature educational sessions, keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and exhibits designed for transit professionals and stakeholders.

Future Dates & Locations

62nd Annual Fall Conference & Expo
November 17–19, 2027
Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, Chula Vista, CA

Photo Highlights

Browse highlights from the Association’s 2025 Fall Conference & Expo. To browse photos, click here.

Speaker
General session
Expo floor

61st Annual Fall Conference

Schedule-at-a-Glance

The schedule below is provided as a preliminary schedule-at-a-glance and is subject to change. Additional speakers, session details, and program updates will be added as they become available.

Tuesday, October 27, 2026

8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Jim Ditch Golf Tournament
4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Executive Committee Meeting

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Exhibitor Move In
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Maintenance Committee Meeting
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. IT Committee Meeting
9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Operations Committee Meeting
10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. IDEA Task Force Meeting
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Small Operators Awards Lunch
Sponsored by GMV
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Opening General Session & Keynote Address
3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Welcome Reception & Expo

Thursday, October 29, 2026

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. General Session
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Coffee & Expo
11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Concurrent Sessions I
12:45 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Lunch & Expo
2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Concurrent Sessions II
2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Exhibitor Move Out
3:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. Technical Tours
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Evening Event

Friday, October 30, 2026

9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Concurrent Sessions III
10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Coffee Break
10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Concurrent Sessions IV
12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Closing Session
12:45 p.m. Conference Adjourns
Leon Panetta
2026 Keynote Speaker

Leon Panetta

U.S. Secretary of Defense (2011–2013), Director of the CIA (2009–2011), White House Chief of Staff, and Co-founder of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy

The California Transit Association is honored to welcome Leon Panetta as the keynote speaker for the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo.

Leon Panetta has built a distinguished career at the highest levels of American government, marked by decades of leadership in public service, national security, and policymaking. A co-founder of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy, he returned to the Institute in 2013 after serving as the 23rd U.S. Secretary of Defense.

From his early days as a U.S. Army officer to key roles in Congress, the White House, and the Central Intelligence Agency, Panetta has played a pivotal role in shaping domestic and international policy. Known for his bipartisan approach and commitment to public service, his work spans critical issues from budget reform and healthcare to national defense and global security, bringing a wealth of leadership experience and policy insight to this year’s conference.

A Special Conversation on Leadership & Public Service

Join us in Monterey for this special keynote conversation with a leader whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and the future of public policy.

Biography

Co-founder of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy, Leon Panetta returned to the Institute on February 27, 2013, after serving as the 23rd Secretary of Defense.

A Monterey native and Santa Clara University School of Law graduate, Mr. Panetta began his long and distinguished public service career in 1964 as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, and upon discharge went to work in Washington as a legislative assistant to U.S. Senate Minority Whip Tom Kuchel of California. In 1969, he was appointed director of the U.S. Office for Civil Rights, where he was responsible for enforcing equal education laws, and later he served as executive assistant to the mayor of New York City. He then returned to Monterey, where he practiced law until his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1976.

Serving his Central Coast district in Congress for 16 years, Mr. Panetta was a key participant in agriculture, healthcare, marine and federal budget issues, and from 1989 to 1993, he chaired the House Budget Committee. He authored a wide range of legislation, including the Hunger Prevention Act of 1988, Medicare and Medicaid coverage for hospice care for the terminally ill, and numerous measures to protect the California coast, including creation of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

In 1993, Mr. Panetta left Congress to serve as director of the Office of Management and Budget for the incoming Clinton administration. There, he was instrumental in developing the policies that led to a balanced federal budget and eventual budget surpluses. In 1994, he accepted appointment as the President’s chief of staff, and immediately brought order and focus to White House operations and policy making.

Upon leaving the Clinton administration in 1997, Mr. Panetta joined with his wife Sylvia to establish and co-direct the Panetta Institute for Public Policy, based at California State University, Monterey Bay. Reflecting Mr. Panetta’s own ideals and personal example, the nonpartisan, not-for-profit study center seeks to attract thoughtful men and women to lives of public service and prepare them for the policy challenges of the future. In addition, Mr. Panetta developed programs for the Institute, such as its Leon Panetta Lecture Series, Congressional Internship Program and Leadership Seminar, that help to inform Americans about the critical issues facing our communities, states and nation in the 21st Century. Institute programs also aim to inspire a deeper engagement in the democratic process while simultaneously setting a public example of service and commitment.

Returning to public service in the Obama Administration as director of the CIA, he ran the operation that brought Osama bin Laden to justice, and, as Secretary of Defense, led the effort to develop a new defense strategy, helping bring two wars to an end, and opened up opportunities for everyone to serve in the military. Mr. Panetta chronicles his life in public service in his memoir Worthy Fights, which was published by Penguin Press in the fall of 2014.

Over the years, Mr. Panetta has served on numerous boards and commissions. He co-chaired California Forward, the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative and Governor Schwarzenegger’s Council on Base Support and Retention. In 2006, he served on the Iraq Study Group, a bipartisan national commission seeking a new course for the war in Iraq. In 2016, Mr. Panetta launched the CSIS Commission on Countering Violent Extremism, which he co-chairs with former Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Mr. Panetta is the recipient of many awards and honors. His most recent awards include: the California Teachers Association’s “Friends of Education Award”; the Judicial Council of California’s “Stanley Mosk Defender of Justice Award”; “The Harry S. Truman Good Neighbor Award”; the Sons of Italy Foundation’s “National Education & Leadership Award”; the “Peter Benchley Ocean Award for Excellence in Policy”; and the Intelligence and National Security Alliance’s “William Oliver Baker Award”.

Join Us in Monterey

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the nation’s most accomplished leaders during the California Transit Association’s 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo.

Register Today

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I attend the California Transit Association’s 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo?

Join the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo to hear directly from industry leaders, expand your professional network, and learn more about innovative approaches to today’s most pressing transit challenges. Guided by the conference theme of Connecting Us, the event ensures that transit professionals of all levels have a space to gather, network, and learn.

Who can attend the conference?

The 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo brings together public and private sector transportation professionals from throughout California and the country to engage in timely discussions aligned with the most pressing issues in transit.

The conference is open to both members and non-members and is designed for a broad audience, including:

  • Transit and transportation professionals across all sectors, disciplines, and career stages
  • Public- and private-sector leaders, consultants, and industry partners
  • Individuals interested in learning more about the California Transit Association or considering membership
  • Students and emerging professionals pursuing or exploring careers in transit, engineering, planning, policy, and related fields

Whether you are a seasoned leader, new to the industry, or exploring a future in transportation, the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo offers education, networking, and collaboration opportunities for all attendees.

Where is the event being held?

The 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo is being held at:

The Portola Hotel & Spa and Monterey Convention Center
Two Portola Plaza
Monterey, CA 93940

How much is registration?

Registration rates are available on the California Transit Association’s Fall Conference website linked here.

What is included in my full conference registration fee?

Conference registration includes access to all conference programming and select networking events, providing a comprehensive professional development experience.

  • Admission to the Welcome Reception
  • Access to all Plenary Sessions
  • Access to all Keynote Sessions
  • Full access to the Expo Hall
  • Admission to the Thursday Evening Offsite Reception
  • Access to all Concurrent Sessions and meals (with the exception of the Small Operators Awards Program & Lunch)

What are the onsite registration hours?

  • Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
  • Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Who should I contact about sponsoring and exhibiting?

For more information on sponsoring:
Rob Finley, Business Development Director
rob@caltransit.org

For more information on exhibiting:
Erin Meyer, Events & Education Director
erin@caltransit.org

Refunds and Cancellations

All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to info@caltransit.org.

Submitted registration cancellation requests will be refunded minus a $35 administrative fee. Registration refund requests will be processed in 7–10 business days.

The cancellation deadline is Thursday, September 15. Refund requests received after this date will not be honored.

Registration no-shows will NOT be refunded, including individuals who attend the conference and later decide not to participate or request a refund.

When and where is next year’s Fall Conference & Expo?

The 62nd Annual Fall Conference & Expo will take place November 17–19, 2027, at the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center in Chula Vista, California.

Location & Venues

The 2026 California Transit Association’s 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo will be held at The Portola Hotel & Spa and Monterey Conference Center, located at:

Portola Hotel & Spa
Two Portola Plaza
Monterey, CA 93940

Monterey Conference Center
1 Portola Plaza
Monterey, CA 93940

All conference sessions, keynote presentations, and the Small Operators Awards will take place at the Portola Hotel & Spa and adjacent Monterey Convention Center, providing a centralized and seamless experience for attendees.

Conference Center
Hotel

Future Dates & Locations

62nd Annual Fall Conference & Expo
November 17–19, 2027
Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, Chula Vista, CA

Host & Local Acknowledgment

The conference is presented by The California Transit Association, with special recognition of Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) as our host agency. Their conference leadership and support play an important role in planning and event logistics for visitors to Monterey and showcasing the region’s vibrant transit community.

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Program & Conference Committee

The Program & Conference Committee is responsible for shaping a comprehensive, relevant, and educational experience for the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo. The committee has finalized a program designed to address timely issues in five core areas:

  • Community Outreach and Community Benefits
  • Management & Leadership
  • Maintenance
  • Operations
  • Policy, Innovation & Customer Experience

Meals & Networking Functions

The following meals and gatherings are included with conference registration:

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

  • Welcome Reception & Expo | 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 29, 2026

  • Coffee & Expo | 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
  • Lunch & Expo | 12:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Friday, October 30, 2026

  • Coffee & Networking | 10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

Additional networking opportunities include:

  • Thursday Evening Reception
  • Small Operators Awards Luncheon – Ticket not included with conference registration
  • Tickets for the Awards Luncheon are available via registration as an add-on

Expo Hall

The Expo Hall will serve as a central gathering place throughout the conference, offering opportunities to connect with industry partners, explore innovative technology, and engage with peers.

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Technical Tours

Optional conference add-ons will be available and released in phases leading to the event. These include:

  • Technical tours
  • Professional development offerings

Attendees are encouraged to check the conference website regularly for updates and registration availability.

Volunteer Opportunities

A limited number of student volunteer roles and professional volunteer opportunities will be available through Monterey-Salinas Transit. Volunteer positions support various conference activities and provide a behind-the-scenes view of conference operations. For additional information on volunteering contact: erin@caltransit.org

Contact Information

For general conference questions, please contact: info@caltransit.org

Additional details and updates will continue to be added as the conference approaches. We look forward to welcoming you to Monterey for three days of learning and collaboration at the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo.

Hotel

The conference will be held at the Portola Hotel & Spa, which is conveniently connected to the Monterey Conference Center.

Conference Center
Hotel

The Association reserved a block of discounted rooms at the Portola Hotel & Spa and Monterey Marriott at a rate of $305 per night, plus tax. Reservations can be made via this link through Monday, October 5.

Nearby Airports

  • Monterey Regional Airport (MRY): Located approximately 10 minutes from the conference venue. While it is the most convenient option, it is a smaller regional airport with limited airline service and fewer direct flight options.
  • San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC): Located approximately 75 miles from Monterey, about 1.5–2 hours by car, and offers a wide range of domestic flights. It is the most commonly used airport for visitors.
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Located approximately 110 miles from Monterey, about 2–2.5 hours by car. SFO provides extensive domestic and international flight options.
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK): Located approximately 105 miles from Monterey, about 2–2.5 hours by car. OAK offers a convenient alternative with a variety of domestic routes.
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Ground Transportation

  • Transit: Local bus service is provided by Monterey-Salinas Transit, offering routes throughout Monterey and surrounding communities.
  • Shuttle Service: Shared airport shuttle service is available between SFO, SJC, and Monterey through providers such as Groome Transportation. Service operates daily; advance reservations are recommended.
  • Rental Cars: Available at all major airports and recommended for flexibility, especially for exploring the Central Coast.
  • Rideshare & Taxis: Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are widely available.

Driving to Monterey

Monterey is located on California’s Central Coast, approximately 10 minutes from Monterey Regional Airport, 1 hour from San Jose, 2 hours from San Francisco, 3 hours from Sacramento, and 5 hours from Los Angeles.

Parking

  • Downtown Parking Structures: Two City of Monterey garages are located approximately one block from the Conference Center: Downtown East Garage, located at Washington & Tyler Streets, and Downtown West Garage, located at Franklin Street & Tyler Street. Both structures offer the first hour free, then $1.00 per 30 minutes or fraction thereof, with a daily maximum of $12.00. Maximum vehicle height is 6 feet 8 inches and rates reset at midnight.
  • Hotel Parking: Valet and self-parking options are available at the Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay and nearby hotels. Rates vary by property and may include in/out privileges for overnight guests.
  • Street Parking: Metered parking is available throughout downtown Monterey on a first-come, first-served basis. Time limits and rates vary by location.
  • Additional Parking: Additional parking is available at nearby public lots and garages within a short walking distance of the venue. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking, particularly during peak conference hours.

Sponsors & Exhibitors

Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities offer high visibility with transit leaders, agency decision-makers, and industry partners from across California. The Expo Hall serves as a central hub for connection and engagement, providing a valuable platform to showcase products and services and build meaningful relationships.

The Expo is an ideal space to increase brand awareness, connect with qualified buyers, strengthen existing partnerships, and generate new business opportunities. Sponsorship opportunities further enhance your presence, helping drive booth traffic and maximize return on investment.
 

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Exhibitor Opportunities

Exhibit

The Association’s Annual Fall Conference & Expo is where the California transit industry gathers. Association members receive preferred pricing on exhibiting.

Each exhibit space includes a booth, a draped table, company sign, chairs, wastebasket, electronic attendee list with mailing and email address, conference registrations, and participation in our prize drawings.

For information on membership or to join, please visit the California Transit Association website or call (916) 446-4656 or email info@caltransit.org.

Register to Exhibit View/Download Prospectus

Exhibitor Booth Registrations

Standard Booths receive two full conference registrations, and Premium, Island, Display, and Vehicle Exhibits receive four full conference registrations.

Vehicle Exhibit Space

Each Vehicle Exhibit space includes the display of one vehicle, electronic attendee list with mailing and email address, four full conference registrations, and participation in our prize drawing. Exact arrival time for vehicle move-in will be assigned at a later date.

Exhibitor Schedule-at-a-Glance

Subject to change
Wednesday, October 28
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Exhibitor Move-In
8:00 am - 11:30 am
Committee Meetings
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Awards Lunch
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Opening General Session
3:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Welcome Reception & Expo
Thursday, October 29
9:00 am - 10:30 am
General Session
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Coffee & Expo
11:30 am - 12:45 pm
Concurrent Sessions
12:45 pm - 2:15 pm
Lunch & Expo
2:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Exhibitor Move-Out
3:45 pm - 5:45 pm
Tech Tours
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Evening Event (offsite)

Exhibitor Booth Pricing

Association Members BEFORE OR ON 9/1/26 AFTER 9/1/26
Standard Booth (10x10) $2,750 $3,000
Premium Booth (10x20) $4,000 $4,250
Island Booth (20x20) $4,750 $5,000
Display Booth (20x40) $5,750 $6,000
Vehicle Exhibit $5,750 $6,000
Non-Members BEFORE OR ON 9/1/26 AFTER 9/1/26
Standard Booth (10x10) $3,750 $4,000
Premium Booth (10x20) $5,000 $5,250
Island Booth (20x20) $5,750 $6,000
Display Booth (20x40) $6,750 $7,000
Vehicle Exhibit $6,750 $7,000

Registration

Registration is available online at caltransit.org. Additional conference and expo information, including booth and vehicle space assignments, will be provided at a later date.

Cancellation Policy

Exhibitors must submit a written cancellation request to Maria Barajas, Association Services Director, at maria@caltransit.org. Cancellations received by September 15 will receive a full refund. Cancellations received after September 15 will not be eligible for a refund.

Annual Fall Conference & Expo Policies

By registering to sponsor and/or exhibit at the Annual Fall Conference & Expo, you agree to abide by the Exhibitor Rules and Regulations located at https://caltransit.org/Portals/0/Exhibitor%20%26%20Sponsor%20Agreement.pdf

Prospectus

Information coming soon...

Our Sponsors

We sincerely thank our sponsors and industry partners for their support of the California Transit Association’s 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo.

2026 Fall Conference Sponsors

Small Operators Awards

Overview

The Small Operators Awards are presented annually during the California Transit Association Fall Conference & Expo, recognizing excellence, leadership, and innovation among California’s small transit operators. This event brings together transit professionals from smaller service areas to celebrate achievements that make a meaningful impact on their communities.

The awards will be held on Wednesday, October 28 in conjunction with a lunch presentation (sponsored by GMV) and feature a keynote speaker, creating a dedicated space to honor outstanding contributions while fostering connection among peers across the industry.

Award Categories

The Small Operators Awards highlight individuals and agencies that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and service excellence across the transit industry. Award categories include:

  • Transit Professional of the Year – Honors an individual who has demonstrated strong leadership and vision
  • Transit Agency of the Year – Recognizes an agency program or service that reflects innovation, effective problem-solving, or a positive community impact
  • Transit Innovation Award – Celebrates forward-thinking approaches and creative solutions in transit
  • Distinguished Service Award – Acknowledges long-standing contributions and commitment to the industry

2025 Recipients

Transit Professional of the Year (formerly Transit Leadership Award)
2025 – Martin Erickson, Ventura County Transportation Commission

Transit Agency of the Year (formerly Transit Excellence Award)
2025 – Culver CityBus

Transit Innovation Award
2025 – Torrance Transit System

Distinguished Service Award
2025 – Geoff Straw, San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority

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Registration & Tickets

The Small Operators Awards event is offered as a separate conference function. Tickets can be purchased for $100 as an add on to registration.

Past Award Recipients & Member Organizations

Transit Professional of the Year Award (formerly the Transit Leadership Award)

2025 - Martin Erickson, Ventura County Transportation Commission
2024 - Vanessa Rauschenberger, Gold Coast Transit Authority 
2023 - Greg Pratt, Humboldt Transit Authority
2022 - Gamaliel Anguiano, Santa Maria Regional Transit
2021 - Jeanne Krieg, Eastern Contra Costa Transit Authority
2020 - Transit Frontline Workers
2019 - Michael Tree, Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority
2018 - Art Ida, City of Culver City
2017 - Alex Clifford, Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District
2016 - Len Engel, Antelope Valley Transit Authority
2015 - Dustin Strandberg, Victor Valley Transit Authority
2014 - Mona Babauta, Solano County Transit (SolTrans)
2013 - Carl Sedoryk, Monterey-Salinas Transit
2012 - Kevin Kane, Victor Valley Transit Authority
2011 - Bruce Richard, Mendocino Transit Authority
2010 - Joe Meer, Morongo Basin Transit Authority
2009 - Terry Bassett, Yolo County Transportation District
2008 - Michael Bair, San Bernardino Association of Governments
2007 - Dave Ashcraft, Transportation Consultant
2006 - Leslie White, Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District
2005 - Jim Ditch, Long Beach Transit
2004 - Frank Lichtanski, Monterey-Salinas Transit
2003 - Jim McElroy, Unitrans, and Virendra “Vic” K. Sood, Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority

Transit Agency of the Year Award (formerly the Transit Excellence Award)

2025 - Culver CityBus
2024 - Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority
2023 - Ventura County Transportation Commission
2022 - SunLine Transit Agency
2021 - Antelope Valley Transit Authority
2020 - Culver CityBus
2019 - Torrance Transit System
2018 - Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority
2017 - Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District
2016 - Thousand Oaks Transit
2015 - Valley Transportation Services
2014 - Gold Coast Transit
2013 - Placer County Transit
2012 - Marin County Transit District and Antelope Valley Transit Authority
2011 - Unitrans
2010 - Western Contra Costa Transit Authority
2009 - City of Visalia
2008 - Santa Rosa CityBus
2007 - Monterey-Salinas Transit and Sunline Transit Agency
2006 - City of Lompoc and City of San Luis Obispo
2005 - City of Elk Grove
2004 - Visalia City Coach
2003 - Eastern Contra Costa Transit Authority and Merced County Transit

Transit Innovation Award

2025 - Torrance Transit System
2024 - City of Commerce Transit
2023 - Torrance Transit System
2022 - Monterey-Salinas Transit
2021 - Golden Empire Transit District 
2020 - Monterey–Salinas Transit 
2019 - San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority
2018 - San Joaquin Regional Transit District
2017 - SunLine Transit Agency
2016 - Victor Valley Transit Needles CarShare Program
2015 - Golden Empire Transit District and the Southern California Regional Transit Training Consortium
2014 - SunLine Transit Agency

Distinguished Service Award

2025 - Geoff Straw, San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority
2024 - Kate Miller, Napa Valley Transportation Authority
2023 - Keith Martin, Yuba-Sutter Transit Authority
2022 - Chris James, Golden Empire Transit District
2021 - Steve Brown, Gold Coast Transit District 
2020 - Scott Haggerty, Alameda County Supervisor
2019 - Jim Mastin, Mendocino Transit Authority
2018 - Karen King, Golden Empire Transit District
2017 - Kevin Kane, Victor Valley Transit Authority
2016 - Congressman Sam Farr
2015 - Leslie T. Rogers, Federal Transit Administration
2014 - Jeffrey Webster, Fresno County Rural Transit Agency

Small Sized Operator Member Organizations
ANTELOPE VALLEY TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Martin J. Tompkins
42210 6th St. West
Lancaster, CA 93534
CITY OF ARCADIA-ARCADIA TRANSIT
Alana Johnson
240 W. Huntington Drive
Arcadia, CA 91007
CITY OF BEAUMONT
Elisa Mendoza
550 E. 6th Street
Beaumont, CA 92223
CITY OF COMMERCE TRANSIT
Claude McFerguson
5555 Jillson Street
Commerce, CA 90040
CITY OF CULVER CITY
Diana Chang
4343 Duquesne Avenue
Culver City, CA 90232
CITY OF DELANO/DELANO AREA RAPID TRANSIT
Viviana Alapisco
P.O. Box 3010
Delano, CA 93216
CITY OF FAIRFIELD-FAST TRANSIT
Shaun Vigil
2000 Cadenasso Drive
Fairfield, CA 94533
CITY OF PETALUMA
Maria Arce
555 N. McDowell Blvd
Petaluma, CA 94954
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH - TRANSIT DIVISION
Tyron Gunn
415 Diamond Street
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
Jesse Stanley
919 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
Adrian Aguilar
28250 Constellation Road
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
CITY OF TURLOCK
Wayne York
1418 N. Golden State Blvd., Suite 1
Turlock, CA 95380
COUNTY OF NEVADA TRANSIT SERVICES
Robin Van Valkenburg
950 Maidu Avenue, Suite 170
Nevada City, CA 95959
EASTERN CONTRA COSTA TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Rashidi Barnes
801 Wilbur Avenue
Antioch, CA 94509
FRESNO COUNTY RURAL TRANSIT AGENCY
Moses Stites
2035 Tulare St., Ste. 201
Fresno, CA 93721
GOLD COAST TRANSIT DISTRICT
Vanessa Rauschenberger
1901 Auto Center Drive
Oxnard, CA 93036
GOLDEN EMPIRE TRANSIT DISTRICT
Chris James
1830 Golden State Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
GTRANS
Dana Pynn
13999 S. Western Avenue
Gardena, CA 90249
HUMBOLDT TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Greg Pratt
133 V Street
Eureka, CA 95501
KINGS COUNTY AREA RURAL TRANSIT
Angie Dow
525 S. Main Street
Hanford, CA 93230
LAKE TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Lisa Davey-Bates
367 N State Street, #204
Ukiah, CA 95482
LIVERMORE/AMADOR VALLEY TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Christy Wegener
1362 Rutan Court Suite 100
Livermore, CA 94550
MARIN TRANSIT
Robert Betts
711 Grand Ave, Ste. 110
San Rafael, CA 94901
MENDOCINO TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Jacob King, Sr
241 Plant Road
Ukiah, CA 95482
MONTEBELLO BUS LINES
John Soria
400 S. Taylor Avenue
Montebello, CA 90640
MORONGO BASIN TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Cheri Holsclaw
62405 Verbena Road
Joshua Tree, CA 92252
MOUNTAIN AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Sandy Benson
P.O. Box 1501
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
NAPA VALLEY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
Danielle Schmitz
625 Burnell Street
Napa, CA 94559
NORWALK TRANSIT SYSTEM
James C. Parker
12700 Norwalk Blvd.
Norwalk, CA 90650
PLACER COUNTY TRANSIT/TAHOE AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT
James Wright
3091 County Center Drive, Suite 220
Auburn, CA 95603
ROSEVILLE ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION DIVISION
Ed Scofield
316 Vernon St., Suite 150
Roseville, CA 95678
SAN LUIS OBISPO REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Geoff Straw
253 Elks Lane
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
SANTA BARBARA METROPOLITAN TRANSIT DISTRICT
Jerry Estrada
550 Olive Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
SANTA MARIA REGIONAL TRANSIT
Kailey Pringle
110 S. Pine Street, Suite 101
Santa Maria, CA 93458
SANTA ROSA CITYBUS
Rachel Ede
45 Stony Point Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
SIMI VALLEY TRANSIT
Ben Gonzales
490 W. Los Angeles Avenue
Simi Valley, CA 93065
SISKIYOU COUNTY TRANSIT
Angie Stumbaugh
190 Greenhorn Rd
Yreka, CA 96097
SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT (SOLTRANS)
Beth Kranda
311 Sacramento Street
Vallejo, CA 94590
SOLANO TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
Ron Grassi
1 Harbor Center, Suite 130
Suisun City, CA 94585
SONOMA COUNTY TRANSIT
Emily Betts
355 West Robles Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA 95407
STANISLAUS REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Adam Barth
912 11th Street, Suite 100
Modesto, CA 95354
TAHOE TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT
Carl Hasty
128 Market Street, P.O. Box 5310
Stateline, NV 89449
THOUSAND OAKS TRANSIT
Tyler Nestved
2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd.
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
TORRANCE TRANSIT SYSTEM
Kim Turner
20500 Madrona Avenue
Torrance, CA 90503
TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY
Navjeet Bagri
369 W. 18th St.
Merced, CA 95340
UNION CITY TRANSIT
Steve Adams
34009 Alvarado-Niles Road
Union City, CA 94587
UNITRANS
Jeff Flynn
One Shields Avenue
5 South Hall
Davis, CA 95616
VALLEY EXPRESS BUS AND DIAL A RIDE
Erin Kenneally
751 E. Daily Drive, Suite 420
Camarillo, CA 93010
VENTURA COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Martin Erickson
751 E. Daily Drive, Suite 420
Camarillo, CA 93010
VICTOR VALLEY TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Rod Goldman
17150 Smoke Tree Street
Hesperia, CA 92345
VISALIA TRANSIT
Angelina Soper
425 E Oak Avenue, Suite 201
Visalia, CA 93291
WESTERN CONTRA COSTA TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Robert Thompson
601 Walter Avenue
Pinole, CA 94564
YOLO COUNTY TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT
Autumn Bernstein
350 Industrial Way
Woodland, CA 95776
YUBA-SUTTER TRANSIT
Matthew Mauk
2100 B Street
Marysville, CA 95901

Student Poster Session

Showcase Your Research at the California Transit Association’s 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo

The California Transit Association invites undergraduate and graduate students to submit proposals for a Student Poster Session at the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo, taking place October 28–30, 2026, in Monterey, California.

Selected posters will be featured during the Welcome Reception & Expo on Wednesday, October 28, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., providing students with a unique opportunity to share their work with transit agency leaders, transportation professionals, and industry partners from across California. Students whose posters are selected for presentation will receive complimentary registration to the conference.

This poster session is co-sponsored by the Mineta Transportation Institute at San José State University.

Mineta Transportation Institute at San José State University

Submit Your Proposal

Poster Topics

Students are encouraged to submit research and projects related to public transportation and mobility on one of the following topics:

  • Transit planning and operations
  • Transportation policy and funding
  • Sustainability and climate initiatives
  • Equity and accessibility
  • Emerging technologies and innovation
  • Community engagement
  • Safety and security
  • Transit-oriented development and land use

Submission Requirements

Interested students should submit:

  • A 300–500 word abstract describing the project, research question, methodology, and key findings or anticipated outcomes
  • Poster title
  • Author(s) and university affiliation(s)
  • Contact information

Submission Deadline

September 15, 2026

Students selected to participate in the event will be notified by October 1. For additional information, contact: erin@caltransit.org.

Poster Display Requirements

Accepted participants will be responsible for producing and bringing their poster to the conference.

Posters will be displayed on easels within the Expo Hall during the Welcome Reception & Expo, where students will have the opportunity to attend and present their research.

Poster Specifications

  • Maximum size: 36” x 48” (portrait orientation preferred)
  • Posters must be professionally printed with the ability to be displayed on an easel
  • Tri-fold boards and other freestanding display boards will not be permitted
  • Additional setup instructions will be provided to accepted presenters

Why Participate?

The Student Poster Session offers participants a unique opportunity to:

  • Present their research to transportation leaders from across California
  • Connect with industry professionals and potential employers
  • Gain valuable experience communicating their work to a professional audience
  • Contribute to important conversations shaping the future of public transportation
  • Receive complimentary registration to the conference (up to 2 free registrations for multi-authored papers)

Additional Information

For additional information, contact erin@caltransit.org.

Jim Ditch Golf Tournament

Kick off the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo with a day on the course at the Jim Ditch Golf Tournament. Join fellow transit professionals and industry partners for networking, friendly competition, and an enjoyable day at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch.

Date

Tuesday, October 27, 2026

Time

8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location

Laguna Seca Golf Ranch

Registration & Event Details

Visit the official Jim Ditch Classic website for tournament information, registration details, and updates.

Visit Tournament Website
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