The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Transportation Workforce Development

The Future of Transportation Engineering and Planning: Navigating an Era of Transformation

The fields of engineering and planning have continuously evolved, shaped by technological advancements and new methodologies. With the growing integration of data-driven applications in solving engineering, planning, and societal challenges, this transformation is not only redefining traditional practices but also reshaping the industry's workforce. The diversification of professionals in transportation engineering and planning introduces both opportunities and challenges.

On one hand, data-driven approaches enhance analytical capabilities, enabling professionals to develop more resilient, equitable, and sustainable communities. On the other, the influx of non-traditional practitioners raises concerns about professional credibility and ethical standards. This paper aims to spark discussion by presenting key insights rather than definitive conclusions. The perspectives shared here reflect industry professionals navigating this transformative period in transportation.

The Evolution of Transportation Engineering and Planning

Transportation professionals now operate in an era where the built environment is increasingly conceptualized through advanced digital models, forming part of comprehensive asset management strategies. Initiatives like the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) and the National Operations Center of Excellence highlight the necessity of a diverse workforce skilled in systems operations and management. To fully leverage lifecycle asset management, organizations must integrate expertise in computer engineering, data science, geographic information systems (GIS), visualization, operational technology, and artificial intelligence (AI).

AI and machine learning (ML) are revolutionizing traffic systems operations and management, significantly improving key areas such as traffic data analysis, network management, tolling, connected and automated vehicles (CAV), and traffic signal optimization. The Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) Workforce Development Guidebook identifies AI scientists as essential assets for organizations seeking optimization. By embracing AI-driven insights, transportation agencies can transition toward data-centric decision-making, maximizing infrastructure investments while upholding ethical governance and public trust.

The Future of the Transportation Workforce

The workforce of the future will be increasingly interdisciplinary, combining diverse expertise to tackle complex transportation challenges. AI will reshape traditional workflows by automating repetitive tasks, allowing professionals to focus on strategic thinking, bias mitigation, and comprehensive problem-solving. While the fundamental principles of professional capability maturity will remain, the methodologies for achieving desired outcomes will evolve.

Certain traditional professions will experience a resurgence in transportation, while new roles will emerge to meet evolving demands. Industrial engineers, quality engineers, and production supervisors, for example, possess transferable knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) that align well with transportation functions. Their expertise in systems thinking, optimization, statistical analysis, supply chain management, operations research, human factors engineering, simulation modeling, lean manufacturing, project management, and sustainability will be vital in integrating AI-driven efficiencies while ensuring human oversight.

As AI adoption accelerates, industry leaders emphasize the importance of maintaining human accountability in decision-making processes. A well-structured policy framework should leverage AI’s potential to enhance transportation safety and efficiency while ensuring human oversight remains central. Additionally, a new professional archetype—the Civil Infrastructure Systems Manager (CISM)—is emerging. This role demands a multidisciplinary skill set encompassing civil, electrical, environmental, industrial, economic, and policy expertise to drive comprehensive infrastructure management. A workforce strategy prioritizing data stewardship, public trust, and global alignment in transportation initiatives will be essential.

Call to Action

The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between today’s workforce and the AI-integrated professionals of the future. To facilitate this transition, ITE must prioritize the following key initiatives:

1. Advancing Inclusivity in Transportation Planning: ITE must continue to serve as a hub for transportation planners and analysts, ensuring that their expertise informs strategic decision-making and industry advancements.

2. Balancing AI Integration with Public Confidence: By collaborating with industry associations and stakeholders, ITE should establish best practices for AI adoption that enhance safety and efficiency while maintaining public trust.

3. Expanding Career Pathways for Emerging Professionals: ITE should lead efforts to attract industrial engineers, quality engineers, and production supervisors to transportation careers. Addressing disparities in compensation across these professions will be critical for long-term recruitment and retention.

4. Redefining Transportation as an Interdisciplinary Field: As the industry evolves beyond a subset of civil engineering, ITE must actively promote transportation engineering as a distinct, multidisciplinary profession.

5. Accelerating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives: ITE’s commitment to diversity is not just a moral imperative—it is essential for the industry’s future. The initiatives outlined in the latest ITE Strategic Plan should be expedited and expanded to leverage ITE’s global presence effectively.

As transportation engineering and planning undergo a profound transformation, embracing technological advancements while maintaining ethical integrity and professional credibility will be paramount. The integration of AI, data analytics, and interdisciplinary expertise presents an unprecedented opportunity to enhance transportation systems for future generations. Through strategic workforce development, policy leadership, and a steadfast commitment to public trust, ITE and its partners can pave the way for a resilient, innovative, and equitable transportation future.