Transportation investment is widely recognized as an engine for economic growth. A high quality transportation network is critical for creating a top performing economy and is a prerequisite for future growth. Volpe's new speaker series, Transportation and the Economy, brings together thought leaders and decision makers to discuss key issues related to transportation and its effects on economic growth.

As demand for transportation services increases, it is essential for the U.S. transportation system to efficiently move people and goods to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in today’s global economy. This speaker series builds on Volpe’s tradition of bringing together thought leaders, decision makers, and stakeholders from around the world to discuss future transportation issues and to generate fresh approaches to emerging challenges.

MIT Professor Dr. Yossi Sheffi gave the first talk in the series, engaging attendees in a discussion about logistics clusters. Dr. Sheffi was introduced by Gregory Winfree, U.S. DOT’s assistant secretary for research and technology.

Dr. Catherine Ross, director of the Georgia Institute of Technology’s Center for Quality Growth and Regional Development, gave the second talk on transportation, economic competitiveness, and megaregions.

The series continues into the spring of 2015. The most up-to-date list of confirmed speakers is available on our website. Each talk is broadcast via webinar, and videos of the talks are available.

The next dialog in the series, scheduled for 12:00 p.m. Thursday, October 30, will feature Volpe’s Anne Aylward, deputy associate administrator for research and innovation.

For more information about this speaker series, contact Ellen Bell, director of Strategic Initiatives for Research and Innovation.
 

Confirmed Speakers