22 November 2024: Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), the national association for the transport technology industry, has launched its annual Essay Competition for early careers professionals, apprentices and students.

This annual event celebrates emerging talent in the transport technology sector, inviting 1,500-word papers on key transport technology themes with two prizes on offer – for the best submission by an early careers professional (someone in the first five years of their ITS career) and for the best student or apprentice essay.

Each winner will receive a £500 prize, a mentoring session with either Dr Jo White, Roads Development Director at National Highways, or Paul Campion, CEO of TRL, and promotion of their essay to thousands across the sector.

The three topics which entrants can write about are:

  1. A Transport Network for All – How does the ITS sector ensure the future of transport is accessible and inclusive?
  2. Freight of the Future – How will technology change the logistics, freight and maritime sectors?
  3. A Sustainable Revolution – How do we ensure our transport network is ready for Net Zero?

The competition, supported by the Institute of Highways Engineers (IHE) and launched at a joint ITS UK Early Careers and Women in ITS meeting on Wednesday, is open for entries until 3 March 2025.

Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of ITS UK, said: “The ITS UK Early Careers Essay Competition offers a great platform for emerging professionals to showcase their creativity, expertise, and innovative thinking. It provides a valuable career boost whilst giving participants a chance to get themselves in front of thousands of industry professionals. The transport technology sector is filled with emerging talent, who have a new and refreshing take on key issues for the sector, so we can’t wait to see what insights and perspectives this year’s entries will bring.”

James Hornsby, Early Careers Lead at ITS UK, stated: “The Early Careers Essay Competition is a brilliant opportunity for those looking to make a name for themselves in ITS. Last year, we had more entries than ever before, so we’re hoping that this year’s competition gets even more. If you’re new to the sector, or a student or apprentice, I’d thoroughly recommend getting involved and showing your expertise, creativity and skill to the sector!”