Driving innovation in Texas

A high‑tech digital illustration depicting a microchip on a circuit board with glowing blue traces. Above the chip, the letters “AI” appear as a holographic projection, symbolizing artificial intelligence processing.

June 15, 2026

ALLEN, Texas – The future of transportation is here, and a technology showcase this week in north Texas is providing a chance to see the latest tech, where innovation meets real-world impact.

Texas continues to lead the way in infrastructure innovation, working on solutions to address the state’s most pressing transportation challenges. At the 2026 Texas Innovation Invitational, public officials, technology experts, planners, and agency leaders are given an opportunity to explore breakthrough innovative solutions, emerging technologies, and strategies to improve safety and mobility.

The 2026 Texas Innovation Invitational in Allen is from June 15 – 17. It’s hosted by the Texas Innovation Alliance (TIA) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

Attendees have the chance to participate in interactive sessions, technology showcases and panel discussions that highlight innovative advancements in transportation. The event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and drive real progress in infrastructure and mobility across Texas.

“As emerging technologies reshape the transportation landscape, the Texas Innovation Invitational provides a platform to align on forward-thinking solutions that improve safety and mobility across the state,” said Erika Kemp, director of TxDOT’s Strategic Initiatives and Innovation Division.

Highlights of the event include:

Exploring cutting-edge AI-powered solutions
Discovering the latest in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)
Seeing advanced technologies transforming the way we move
TxDOT’s semi-autonomous robot named SPOT

Other examples of emerging technology will also be there, including orange cones with lights. TxDOT maintenance crews are conducting pilot projects to evaluate these cones which are equipped with synchronized, sequential LED lighting to create a "runway" effect, guiding drivers around hazards.

Another example is a road symbol painting robot. This technology allows the road worker to direct the robot to paint detailed road markings via touchscreen while staying safely in the truck.

The event kicks off with an interactive Tech Showcase and Poster Session featuring innovative transportation-related technology demonstrations highlighting various cutting-edge tools and devices. Both the Tech Showcase and Poster Session are open to the public.

The event also includes a S.T.A.R. Pitch Competition, where regional teams present real-world solutions to Texas transportation challenges. An expert panel of judges then provides feedback before selecting winners to receive the Smart Transportation & Advanced Roadways (S.T.A.R.) Award.