Reflecting on a record-breaking International Conference
With 650 registrants, this year's International Conference was ACT's largest event yet! If you weren't with us in Denver, we missed having you for professional development, TDM learning, and networking opportunities. Check out the article below for some highlights from the event and join us as we look forward to #ACT25 in New Orleans!
Day one
Sunday, August 3 began with a series of insightful workshops tailored to professional development and TDM industry knowledge. These optional add-on opportunities allowed attendees to take their learning one step further with smaller hands-on sessions. Participants joined Applying Behavioral Science to Transportation Demand Management, ACT's Volunteer Leaders Workshop, and The History of TDM - Lessons Learned and How to Apply Them Today.
Five tour groups also set out to explore Denver and surrounding areas with the help of experienced local guides. As part of Take a Hike! Experience Boulder's Bountiful Recreation Access, Exploring TDM in Cherry Creek by Bike, Visit Golden, Explore Idaho Springs Transit Center and Argo Mine, and Boulder Transportation Innovation Tour. Coupled with tailored TDM learning opportunities, these attendees enjoyed the chance to set out and explore all Colorado has to offer.
The day then continued with the President's Reception and Opening Reception, sponsored by Commutifi, which officially kicked off the conference with fun and networking. Attendees gathered for great discussion, photo opportunities with local landmarks, and enjoyed regional beverages and bites. Event registration hit 650, and this strong participation was clear at the Opening Reception. The room was packed with professionals from various sectors, geographies, and areas of expertise. We've been looking forward to gathering our community in person since last year's International Conference, and this kickoff was certainly worth the wait!
Day two
Day two, the first full day of conference programming, began with special welcome remarks from ACT Executive Director David Straus and Board President David McMaster. The two provided key updates from the association, laid the groundwork for the upcoming schedule, recognized individuals who made the conference possible, and highlighted recent organizational accomplishments. They then welcomed Harriet Tregoning of the United States Department of Transportation to the stage. In her special address, she discussed how TDM is the future and the importance of reducing the transportation sector's carbon emissions.
Following Harriet's remarks, Charles T. Brown, our Monday keynote speaker, began his keynote address, As Founder & CEO of Equitable Cities, Charles is passionate about equity, a topic near and dear to many in TDM. His presentation centered around the urgent need to make transportation more accessible, especially in underserved areas. This inspirational address left attendees inspired and ready to take on their breakout sessions of the day.
Attendees then joined breakout sessions throughout the day focused on trending industry topics. Whether they chose to join panels about micromobility, TDM messaging, real-life programs and initiatives, or other key subjects, there were almost too many fantastic options to choose from. To wrap up the day's programming, ACT's Chapters and Councils held meetings to gather members in person for insightful discussion. The day concluded with a special Exhibitors Social, where attendees enjoyed refreshments and engaging conversation with this year's exhibitors.
Day three
Tuesday, August 6 kicked off with an inspiring keynote address by Amy Ford of the City and County of Denver. Amy's presentation centered around advancements that will disrupt the mobility status quo and discussed how TDM is the future. Energized from the morning's events, attendees set out for full days of breakout sessions and networking.
From social media marketing trends to corporate mobility, TDM ordinances, TMA development, policy, and more, these breakouts provided key insights about industry challenges and how to successfully overcome them. There were plenty of opportunities to learn about the latest trends and connect with other attendees about all that they've learned so far.
The day concluded with an opportunity for ACT Councils to gather in person. From group bonding to TDM Week planning, discussion of the TDM Forum, and more, many great conversations were had during these meetings!
Day four
Wednesday, the final day of the conference, began with the 2024 ACT National Awards. Led by co-hosts Nisha Mokshagundam and Brandon Figliolino, attendees enjoyed a special "Hikes & Hops" theme for the ceremony. The association was thrilled to recognize thirteen awardees for their outstanding work and industry impact. This year, inspired by a recommendation of the Conference Planning Committee, each winner received a custom trophy carved from wood in the shape of a Colorado mountain peak.
Then, Board President David McMaster, TDM-CP presented the 2024 President's Awards. Finally, the association formally inducted the 2024 inductees of the TDM Hall of Fame. ACT was proud to recognize each and every honoree recognized on August 7. Each one has left an indelible mark on their communities, the TDM industry, or event ACT itself!
Before heading off to the final breakout sessions of the day, attendees enjoyed a special story time with ACT's SEACT Chapter to introduce next year's International Conference location. The 39th Annual International Conference will take place in New Orleans, and after hearing from the chapter, we can't wait! Through the theme of The Multimodal Princess, attendees enjoyed a fairy tale-style introduction to all they could expect in New Orleans. You can view a video of the announcement here.
The day wrapped with four breakout sessions about behavior change, selling to the C-Suite, and incentives. And just like that, #ACT24 was over!
