As agencies seek to harness AI to enhance safety, strengthen system performance, and support data-driven decision-making, the need for reliable data and clear governance frameworks is increasingly urgent. TRB hosted a webinar on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Eastern that examined how AI is being applied across transportation systems. From identifying potential security risks at airports to predicting high-risk roadway locations and detecting trespassers along rail corridors, strong data governance is foundational to these efforts. Presenters shared case studies highlighting successes, challenges, and lessons learned as they advance AI-readiness and strengthen data governance in a rapidly evolving environment.
This webinar was sponsored by TRB’s Executive Office.
The slides are available. 
 
Webinar agenda and presenters

• Introduction to the Data Systems and Governance Committee – Jesse Newberry, HNTB
• Data Literacy is Everyone’s Job – Gregory Ciparelli, Connecticut Department of Transportation
• Data Governance and AI: Key Takeaways from TxDOT – Benjamin McCulloch, Texas Department of Transportation
• From Governed Data to Responsible AI – Jennifer Volkening, Utah Department of Transportation
• Question and answer session moderated by Joel Jundt, South Dakota Department of Transportation

The first 60 minutes of the webinar were for presentations and the final 30 minutes were reserved for audience questions.
 
Learning Objectives
At the end of this webinar, participants can:

• Explain what a data literacy plan is and why it is important for organizations
• Describe the core principles that a data governance program can be governed by and what a comprehensive path to AI readiness looks like
• Describe the risks to organizations when they do not address data governance issues

 
Professional Development Hours
This webinar was delivered as a scheduled – e-learning live event and is categorized within RCEP as Technical, Health and Safety.
Professional Development Hours (PDHs) earned on completion of this program were reported to the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Certificates of Completion are issued to all participants via the RCEP.net online system. Complaints about registered providers may be addressed to RCEP, 1015 15th Street, NW, 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20005.
American Institute of Certified Planners Certification Maintenance Credits
This webinar was approved by the American Planning Association (APA) for 1.5 Certification Maintenance (CM) Credits. CM credits provide continuing education opportunities for AICP Certified Planners to continue their professional skills and knowledge. To receive CM credits, Certified Planners should visit the TRB event webpage on American Planning Association and register their participation. If you have problems reporting your CM credits or have general questions about the CM program, please contact the APA.