About CTRF
The Canadian Transportation Research Forum (CTRF) is a non-profit, membership-based association dedicated to advancing transportation research in Canada.
Established in 1965, CTRF provides a national forum for research, discussion, and professional exchange across the transportation sector. Over the past six decades, the organization has brought together professionals from government, industry, academia, and the broader transportation community to share ideas, explore emerging issues, and contribute to the evolution of transportation policy and practice in Canada.
Today, CTRF’s work continues through a range of activities that support research, dialogue, and sector connection.
What we do
CTRF supports Canada’s transportation research community through a range of activities:
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- Research publication: An annual Call for Papers culminates in the publication of over 100 transportation research papers each year relevant to all transportation sectors and modes across the country.
- Annual Conference: A 4-day conference in the spring each year provides a forum to present and discuss CTRF research Papers, as well as knowledge-sharing on the latest transportation research and issues in Canada. Held in a different Canadian city each year, the conference is an excellent networking and learning opportunity for students and professionals in the transportatio n and logistics space.
- Awards program: A range of awards are competitively allocated each year as an incentive to encourage up-to-date research on Canadian transportation issues.
- Scholarship program: We provide scholarships to graduate students pursuing research in the transportation or logistics field, supporting the next generation of transportation professionals.
- Transportation sector information and contacts: Members receive monthly Transportation Information Updates, quarterly FORUMation newsletters on CTRF-related activities, and access to a directory of CTRF Members.
Mission and Objectives
Our mission is to promote the development of research in transportation and related fields and provide a forum for networking and discussion by:
- Publishing research papers, through the media of national and regional meetings and other methods determined by the Board of Directors
- Creating opportunities to discuss transportation issues and stay informed on transportation research development and outcomes
- Providing an environment for professional networking and encouraging student interest in transportation research
Our History
Since its founding, CTRF has played a central role in connecting transportation research and practice across Canada.
1965. The first meeting of the Canadian Transportation Research Forum is held at Manoir St. Castain in Lac Beauport, Quebec.
Late 1960s – 1970s. The Annual Conference becomes a key national forum for transportation discussion, bringing together participants from across government, industry, and academia. Research papers are published annually in a Proceedings volume for members and interested stakeholders.
1974. CTRF introduces the Annual Student Paper Competition for Canadian university students. Awards are presented in three categories: Undergraduate, Master’s, Doctoral.
1976. CTRF assumes responsibility for awarding the Jim Davey Memorial Trust Award for the best Doctoral paper. The award honours Jim Davey, Assistant Deputy Minister of Transport Canada, in recognition of his contributions to transportation policy and law in Canada.
1980s. CTRF expands its focus on supporting emerging professionals and strengthening connections across the sector.
1988. The CTRF Scholarship Fund is established to encourage graduate students to pursue research and careers in transportation. The fund is supported through donations and sponsorships.
CTRF Today
CTRF remains the key forum for transportation research and collaboration in Canada.
Membership is open to the public, and includes transportation professionals and students from academia, public and private sector transport operators, consulting, and transportation departments and other governmental agencies.
We continue to hold four-day conferences focused on discussing the latest transportation research, and bringing together students, professionals, policy-makers and academics to create a strong Canadian transportation community.