APTA opens registration for 2026 TRANSform & EXPO in Chicago

APTA TRANSform & EXPO will take place in Chicago from 4 to 7 October 2026, bringing together public transportation agencies, manufacturers, suppliers and industry stakeholders for the American Public Transportation Association’s flagship conference and exhibition. Registration is now open

Thousands of public transportation professionals from around the world are expected to attend the event at McCormick Place, where the programme will combine conference sessions, keynote presentations, networking opportunities and an exhibition focused on the latest developments in public transportation technologies and mobility solutions.

Conference and exhibition programme for APTA expo 2026

According to APTA, TRANSform & EXPO will provide a forum for discussions on industry priorities, emerging technologies, infrastructure development, workforce issues and mobility innovation. The event will also host product launches, educational sessions and technical presentations covering the evolving public transportation sector.

The previous edition, held in 2023, attracted more than 12,000 attendees representing 85 countries. This year’s event is expected to bring together transit agencies, manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, policymakers and technology providers from across the industry.

The exhibition will showcase vehicles, components, digital technologies, infrastructure solutions and services spanning all modes of public transportation.

In brief

• When will APTA TRANSform & EXPO 2026 take place? The event will be held in Chicago from 4 to 7 October 2026.
• Who organises the event? The conference and exhibition are organised by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).
• Who attends TRANSform & EXPO? Public transportation agencies, manufacturers, suppliers, policymakers and industry stakeholders.
• Is registration open? Yes, registration for the 2026 edition is now open.

Focus on public transportation development

APTA states that public transportation continues to play a key role in connecting communities, supporting businesses and economic activity. The association also highlights ongoing investments across the sector in new technologies, infrastructure modernisation and service improvements to address changing mobility needs.

The event will provide opportunities for participants to exchange experiences, discuss current industry developments and explore technological solutions being deployed across bus, rail and multimodal transport systems.

TRANSform & EXPO is organised by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), an international non-profit association representing more than 1,700 public and private sector member organisations.

The association represents all modes of public transportation in North America, including bus, paratransit, passenger rail and waterborne services, as well as companies operating in shared mobility, information technology, research, education and transportation planning.