I have been attending the Transportation Research Board’s Annual Conference since 2018. Other than my first year at the TRB, I presented in all of them – either at lectern or poster sessions. This year, I will be presenting at a subcommittee meeting (Subcommittee on Equity of Innovative Mobility Services and Technologies AP020(3)) and looking forward to it.
I have always enjoyed the conference. I learn, share, network, and catch up with friends and colleagues. The meeting can be overwhelming since there are so many sessions, posters, and committee meetings to chose from some of which taking place at the same time. Over the years, I have developed a streamlined approach to attending the meeting and getting the best out of my attendance.
- Attend a Sunday workshop for an interactive engagement
- Dedicate an afternoon or two for poster sessions for one on one chat with presenters
- Attend at least two committee meetings (different committees)
- Go to at least two lectern sessions
- Attend an event (for instance the Deen Lecture and Awards this year)
- Visit the exhibits to see the latest innovation on transportation technology
- Catch up with friends during mealtimes
- Spend a morning/afternoon catching up with work emails and taking care of business/work back home
- Go for an evening stroll in DC, weather permitting
- Be friend the TRB app!
On a different note …
My article (perspective of wheelchair users on Uber and Lyft usage) was republished in the Transportation Research Record’s (TRR) Volume 2678 as one of highly downloaded recent publications. I am so very pleased to learn that people are interested in disability! As a result of this honor, I am now a proud owner of a TRR hard copy (first ever for me).
Mahtot [Mah-tote] Gebresselassie, PhD 