The Transport Research Arena (TRA) 2026 will once again bring together the brightest minds and most innovative players in the transport sector to discuss, demonstrate, and co-create the future of mobility. Taking place in Budapest, Hungary, from 18–21 May 2026, this high-level conference is co-organised by the European Commission and aims to inspire cross-sector collaboration to address the challenges of the evolving mobility landscape.
The event will gather stakeholders from all transport networks – road, rail, waterborne, and aviation – and creates a unique forum for researchers, academics, students, engineers, infrastructure managers, transport operators, SMEs, start-ups, industry representatives, public authorities, and policy makers to engage and exchange. With a dynamic programme that includes plenary and technical sessions, an exhibition, and live demonstrations, TRA 2026 will showcase groundbreaking innovations and ideas that shape the transport systems of tomorrow.
ERTICO will be actively present in sessions, connect with stakeholders at the exhibition, and contribute to shaping the research and innovation agenda in Europe.
High-Level Leadership & Speaking Engagements
ERTICO’s leadership will be at the forefront of the conference’s strategic and technical discussions. Joost Vantomme, CEO of ERTICO, will be actively contributing to the program through several key roles:
- Policy & Workforce Shifts: Joost Vantomme will Chair the technical session "Workforce Shifts in Transport Policy" (20 May, 14:00-15:30). This session explores the critical human element of the mobility transition, including the impact of automation (CCAM) and remote work on travel behavior and labor markets.
- International Cooperation: He will serve as the Rapporteur for Special Session : "International Cooperation: One system, many actors," (19 May, 16:00-17:00), focusing on coordinating European research and innovation with global partners, including the United States, Asia, and Africa.
- Strategic Skills Workshop: Joost will also participate in a high-level CEDR Workshop with the Governing Board of Europe’s National Road Authorities to address the emerging skills gap and the digital competences required for the future of road infrastructure.
As an organisation committed to enabling cooperation across sectors, ERTICO is proud to support TRA’s mission of bridging research, industry, and policy developments. Stay tuned for more updates on ERTICO’s role at TRA2026 and how we continue to lead the way in future mobility solutions.