CTRF Annual Conference
SAVE THE DATE!
The 62nd CTRF Annual Conference will be in Montreal, June 6-9, 2027
Check back here for further information in fall 2026.
CTRF Conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia, May 2026
More than an event, the CTRF Annual Conference is where Canada’s leading transportation experts, emerging talent, and academics shape the future of transportation research. Whether you are advancing research, shaping policy, or applying insights in practice, the CTRF Conference is the national opportunity to connect and exchange ideas.
Each year, CTRF brings together transportation researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across Canada to reveal new research and share insights that will shape the future of transportation.
During this 4 day event, academic, government and industry leaders discuss and guide the economic and competitive transformation of Canada’s transportation sector.
Who should attend?
The CTRF Conference is designed for scholars and professionals working across Canada's transportation ecosystem, including:
- Transportation researchers and academics
- Government and policy professionals
- Industry and consulting practitioners
- Students and emerging professionals
Whether you are advancing research, shaping policy, or applying insights in practice, the CTRF Conference offers a national forum to connect and exchange ideas.
Why Attend? A Transportation Conference like no other
The CTRF Conference has followed a similar format for many years, providing ample opportunity for deep technical discussions, practical experience, and networking with colleagues and peers. The 4 day event typically runs from Sunday evening until the closing luncheon on Wednesday and offers:
- Groundbreaking new Research Paper presentations and poster sessions
- Canada-wide expert keynote presentations and discussions
- Networking opportunities and social events
- Technical Tours
- Awards and Scholarships Luncheon
- And, the much-anticipated annual 'Bison Debate'
View our Past Events page to see typical programs for the multi-day event, as well as the types of research being presented at the Conference.
We are extremely grateful to the Sponsors who have made CTRF Conferences possible for over 40 years!
Bison Debate
The Bison Debate is one of the most enjoyable and popular events at our Annual Conference. Arranging the first debate at the 1996 CTRF Conference was the brainchild of Dr. Barry Prentice, who also secured sponsorship of the debate from Bison Transport for over 25 years. Barry has presided at all but four of the annual debates to date.
The debate is a formal "Oxford-style" debate based on the British Parliamentary system. Ingredients of the Debate include; a sponsor, two 2-member teams, a thesis (hypothesis, premise, resolution), rules of engagement, a moderator, a timekeeper, and an audience jury made up of Conference attendees.
The debate challenges leading voices in transportation to argue a timely, provocative issue facing the sector. The sessions encourage sharp thinking, respectful challenge, and active participation based on a clear set of procedures. The history and themes of past Bison debates give a great sense of the event!
Members get more!
Can't join us for the Conference this year? Join the Community! CTRF Membership provides exclusive access to CTRF research, relevant news and updates, and year-round connection with Canada's transportation leaders. Learn more and become a member here.