EVENTS
EXPO is more than workshops and intensives. We have several opportunities and special sessions planned to maximize networking and time with your industry peers. Your EXPO ’26 registration includes access to a number of signature events during the conference that no attendee will want to miss. Similar to previous years, you’ll hear from key Federal Transit Administration and CTAA leadership on critical issues like funding and regulations. Not only will you be able to network with your peers, but also Association staff and Board Members. The Trade show floor showcases the latest transit products and services, featuring vendors who are excited to work with you and your community. This year’s Big Night Out is at The Durham Museum with the theme “Retro Rewind.” Costume Contest will be at 9:30 p.m., in the ballroom, cash prize. Themes are: Best 70s, Best 80s, Best 90s.
Monday, May 11

OPENING General Session

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Convention Center - Ballroom A
Let EXPO begin! Welcome to the 2026 EXPO presented by Forest River! CTAA leadership and the Federal Transportation Administration will be kicking off the conference with a leadership presentation no one will want to miss.

Opening Reception, Hilton Omaha

4:45 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Welcome to the 2026 EXPO in Omaha! The Opening Reception is not just about kicking off the EXPO; it’s about building connections and setting the stage for a successful and memorable event. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or an EXPO veteran, this is your chance to create lasting impressions and expand your professional network.

Tuesday, May 12

Trade Show Grand Opening Reception, Convention Center, Hall C

2:45 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts come together in a relaxed and festive environment to celebrate the kick-off of this year's community transportation trade show. Be sure to engage with as many exhibitors as you can for a chance to make valuable contacts, but also win cash prizes! Bring your game ticket to the CTAA booth to enter. Must be present to win.

Trade Show After Party, Hilton Omaha

8:45 p.m. - 10:45 p.m.
Last year was a blast, be sure to check out this annual event open to all EXPO attendees! Join our corporate partners and your colleagues for a relaxing evening with beverages, desserts and music. Whether you're looking to unwind after a day of insightful sessions or eager to make new business contacts, the after party is the ideal place to commemorate a successful CTAA 2026 trade show.

Wednesday, May 13

Awards Ceremony and Annual Meeting

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Convention Center - Ballroom A
CTAA welcomes all to the Annual Member Meeting and 2026 Community Transportation Awards Ceremony! Get ready to hear from CTAA leadership and celebrate the nominees and winners of Frontline Hero, Rising Star, Outstanding Community Partner, State Leadership, Community Transportation Small System of the Year, and Community Transportation Large System of the Year.

Trade Show Luncheon

11:45 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Convention Center, Hall C
All EXPO attendees are encouraged to visit the trade show to visit with new and existing corporate partners. A buffet lunch will be served starting at 11:45 a.m. Make sure you visit exhibitor booths you may have missed on Tuesday. Attendees can play a fun card game with exhibitors for a chance to win cash prizes! Bring your game ticket to the CTAA booth to enter to win. Must be present to win.

Tours

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Tour 1 - Behind the scenes of Charles Schwab Field Omaha: Home of the College World Series
Tour 2 - Local Transit Operations Tour

Tours will be capped at 25 participants. Tour registration will open in February 2026.

Retro Rewind (Big Night Out)

7:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
The Durham Museum
This year's Big Night Out is at The Durham Museum with the theme "Retro Rewind." Costume Contest will be at 9:30 p.m., in the ballroom, cash prize. Themes are: Best 70s, Best 80s, Best 90s. Transportation will be provided to/from The Durham Museum and host hotels starting at 7 p.m.

Thursday, May 14

Tours

10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Tour 1 - Behind the scenes of Charles Schwab Field Omaha: Home of the College World Series
Tour 2 - Local Transit Operations Tour

Tours will be capped at 25 participants. Tour registration will open in February 2026.

The Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) and its members believe that mobility is a basic human right. From work and education to life-sustaining health care and human services programs to shopping and visiting with family and friends, mobility directly impacts quality of life.