APTA Kicks Off Mobility Conference in Salt Lake City!

APTA is hosting its 2026 Mobility Conference and International Bus Roadeo in Salt Lake City, UT, May 17-20 and 15-19, respectively. The event brings together hundreds of bus and paratransit professionals to discuss industry trends, unveil new products, exchange best practices, and celebrate excellence in bus operations.

The conference opened with remarks from APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas and Leanne Redden, APTA chair and executive director, Chicago Regional Transportation Authority. Keynote speaker Donnie Campbell—the real-life coach who inspired TV character Ted Lasso—shared insights on leadership, teamwork, and culture. Attendees also heard directly from senior FTA officials about national public transit priorities.

“We thank the Utah Transit Authority [UTA] for hosting this year’s Mobility Conference and International Bus Roadeo. UTA has built a system that connects one of the fastest-growing regions in the country and is a model for the industry,” said Skoutelas. “That same spirit defines this conference: public transportation professionals coming together to share what works, tackle what’s next, and strengthen the industry that keeps America moving.”

In conjunction with the conference, APTA is hosting the International Bus Roadeo, where bus drivers and maintenance teams demonstrate their expertise through a series of challenges designed to assess their skills and commitment to safety standards.

This year’s Roadeo has 94 participating agencies, including 80 drivers and 49 maintenance teams, competing in events emphasizing safety, efficiency, and professionalism in public transit vehicle operations.

“The Bus Roadeo celebrates the excellence and professionalism prevalent in our industry’s bus operations,” said Skoutelas. “Our operators and maintenance teams are crucial for providing safe, dependable, and efficient transportation services to communities nationwide. The Roadeo honors their skill and commitment to both our industry and their communities.”

View images from the Mobility Conference and Roadeo.

Look for more coverage of sessions and activities throughout the week on Passenger Transport.