JEFFERSON CITY — The Missouri Department of Transportation is encouraging students across the state to explore careers in transportation by applying for the 2026 Youth Transportation Conference.
The conference will be held July 6–10 on the campus of Lincoln University in Jefferson City and is free to students in grades 9–12. Students finishing eighth grade this school year and graduating seniors are also eligible to apply.
Each year, MoDOT sponsors the conference to help students apply science, technology, engineering and math concepts learned in school to real-world transportation challenges. Applications are being accepted through April 24, and up to 40 students will be selected to participate.
The academic curriculum includes sessions on bridge building and design, construction materials, public administration and transportation safety. Additional activities include field trips, office and site tours, and presentations from professionals across various MoDOT divisions and related organizations.
Conference organizers said the program also allows students to explore the wide range of careers available in transportation and engineering, while building meaningful connections with Mo- DOT staff as they consider future career paths.To apply, students must complete an application and submit one letter of recommendation. Additional information and application materials are available online at modot.org/ modot-youth-transportation- conference-ytc.
