Volpe Center's International Work

"Transportation systems within and among nations are lifelines to economic growth, to freer trade, and to greater cultural exchange."

— Department of Transportation Strategic Plan 2003—2008

As stated in the Department of Transportation (DOT) Strategic Plan 2003-2008, global connectivity is a key strategic goal. The department seeks to facilitate a more efficient domestic and global transportation system that enables economic growth and development. As international trade and travel have become an increasingly important part of the transportation picture, the Volpe Center's role in supporting transportation modes internationally has seen corresponding growth.

In this issue of Highlights, the Focus article is about the Center's work for the Federal Aviation Administration in the international arena. In addition to DOT's goal of global connectivity, this work also supports DOT's strategic goals of safety, environmental stewardship, mobility, and security. Our staff has demonstrated that they can work seamlessly with their international colleagues.

In addition to our support to FAA, we are also proud of the work that we do to support other DOT agencies in the international arena. Our technical staff are well represented in international regulatory organizations, where they advocate for worldwide adoption of standards and regulations when this is desirable. The Center also provides direct services to several foreign governments. Our technical experts attend and present at international conferences, sharing research results and identifying best practices.

We work bilaterally with parallel organizations in individual countries where we have established working relationships. Within the past year, we have welcomed delegations from the United Kingdom, China, the Netherlands, and Israel. Each of these site visits has offered an opportunity to exchange information on new technologies and to focus on evolving areas of mutual interest.

The energy gained from the collaboration benefits everyone as we work towards finding and implementing lasting global solutions to transportation issues.

Curtis J. Tompkins