Conference showcases the ideas, skills and leadership shaping the future of transport
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More than a hundred emerging professionals from across the highways, transportation and infrastructure sector came together in London on 8 September for the CIHT Emerging Professionals Conference 2026, where keynote speaker Professor Chris Whitty challenged delegates to consider the wider impact of transport on health, place and communities.
Hosted by CIHT and themed 'Making Connections', the conference brought together early-career professionals, industry leaders and experts from across government and the private sector for a day of learning, networking and professional development. The programme explored some of the most pressing issues facing the profession, including public health, strategic road investment, autonomous vehicles, skills development and the future of mobility.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address from Professor Chris Whitty KCB FRS FMedSci, Chief Medical Officer for England, who explored the relationship between transport, health and place. Delegates heard how the environments we plan, design and manage can influence public health outcomes and support healthier, more connected communities.
Professor Whitty's contribution provided a powerful reminder that transport infrastructure and services are about far more than movement. They play a critical role in supporting wellbeing, reducing inequalities and creating places where people can thrive.
CIHT President Kate Carpenter opened the conference and welcomed delegates from across the sector, highlighting the importance of investing in emerging professionals and equipping the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to address increasingly complex challenges.
Throughout the day, delegates heard from representatives from National Highways, FREENOW, Kier, Ringway and CIHT, alongside members of the CIHT Emerging Professionals Network. Sessions examined topics including the delivery of England's Strategic Road Network, the opportunities and challenges presented by autonomous vehicles, durable skills development, and transport's role as an enabler of economic opportunity, health, safety and social inclusion.
The conference (kindly sponsored by Kier, Ringway, Matchtech and Waterman Aspen) also featured an autonomous vehicles panel discussion chaired by CIHT's Head of Policy, Justin Ward, bringing together leading voices from across the sector to debate the future of automated mobility and its implications for road safety, accessibility and transport policy.
Delegates also took part in career development workshops and a dedicated CIHT Learn session, providing practical advice on professional development, continuous learning and career progression. The event delivered more than six hours of CPD and offered valuable opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing.
Kate Carpenter FCIHT, President of CIHT, said:
"The CIHT Emerging Professionals Conference is about investing in the future of our profession. Bringing together talented early-career professionals with industry leaders creates opportunities to learn, share ideas and build the connections that will help shape the future of transport.”
“The quality of discussion throughout the day demonstrated the passion, creativity and commitment that exists across the next generation of transport professionals. I was particularly encouraged to see so many emerging leaders engaging with the challenges facing our sector and exploring how transport can deliver better outcomes for communities, the economy and the environment.”
“Congratulations to all our award finalists and winners. Their achievements highlight the exceptional talent coming through our profession and give us great confidence in the future of highways, transportation and infrastructure."
Celebrating emerging talent
The conference concluded with the presentation of the CIHT Emerging Professional and Apprentice of the Year Awards, recognising outstanding achievement from across the highways and transportation profession.
CIHT Apprentice of the Year 2026
CIHT Apprentice of the Year 2026 was awarded to George Skuse, Civil Engineer Apprentice at Mott MacDonald. Judges praised his enthusiasm, professionalism, commitment to continuous improvement and dedication to encouraging others into the profession through mentoring, schools engagement and work experience activities.
The Apprentice of the Year shortlist comprised:
CIHT Emerging Professional of the Year 2026
The CIHT Emerging Professional of the Year 2026 award was presented to Rachel Lord, Chartered Transport Planner at Tetra Tech. Judges highlighted her professional achievements, leadership, mentoring activities and significant contribution to CIHT through Council, professional development and support for emerging professionals.
The Emerging Professional shortlist included:
Reflecting on the event, delegates spoke positively about the opportunity to hear directly from senior leaders, gain new perspectives on the future of transport and build connections with peers from across the profession.
The CIHT Emerging Professionals Conference continues to provide a unique platform for the sector's future leaders, helping them develop the knowledge, skills and networks that will shape the future of highways, transportation and infrastructure.
Learn more about CIHT's Emerging Professionals Network and future opportunities through CIHT's website.
Join other savvy professionals just like you at CIHT. We are committed to fulfilling your professional development needs throughout your career
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