TRB's 65th Annual Workshop on Transportation Law
On July 14, 2026, Christine Ryan and Ann-Therese Schmid participated in the Transportation Research Board’s (TRB) 65th Annual Workshop on Transportation Law.
Christine, Chair of the Transportation Procurement and Contract Law Standing Committee, participated on the panel entitled “Artificial Intelligence, Real Agencies: What to Consider When Using AI for Transportation.” As artificial intelligence transforms the public and private sectors, this panel explored how transportation agencies are using AI today and in the near future and corresponding legal and policy considerations. The panel of experts representing perspectives from federal, state and local agencies and the private sector discussed AI use cases, agency obligations and responsibilities and available resources. They dove into topics such as procurement, terms of service, data and privacy concerns and potential liabilities. Attendees left with practical tips for addressing risks while embracing the future of AI.
Ann-Therese, who is a member of the Public Transportation and Intermodal Operations Law Standing Committee, moderated the panel on “Navigating Development of Transportation Projects through Progressive Design Build.” This session provided key information and insights for public transportation agencies that are using or considering the use of progressive design build for the development of transportation projects. Participants learned from the experiences of this panel of lawyers and practitioners who presented case studies on transportation projects being developed through progressive design build in various states. Attendees gained valuable knowledge about successful strategies and structures, as well as pit falls to avoid.
As part of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the Transportation Research Board (TRB) mobilizes expertise, experience, and knowledge to anticipate and solve complex transportation-related challenges. The Board’s varied activities annually engage more than 5,500 engineers, scientists and other transportation researchers and practitioners from the public and private sectors and academia, all of whom contribute their expertise in the public interest.
