7th International Conference on Women and Gender in Transportation (2025)
Chapter: Introduction
Introduction
The 7th International Conference on Women and Gender in Transportation (WGiT 2024) provided engagement opportunities through six distinct formats, including plenary sessions that provided broad insights, roundtable discussions, poster sessions showcasing innovative research, panel discussions featuring expert perspectives, hands-on workshops, and research sessions focused on in-depth studies. With a primary focus on the experiences of women and people of all gender identities in transportation systems, WGiT 2024 explored systemic barriers, inclusive workforce practices, and leadership transformation.
The event facilitated national and international discussions on research, planning, implementation, evaluation, and lessons learned. Conversations extended beyond traditional engineering and design solutions, incorporating perspectives on technology, leadership development, community engagement, and policy reform. Sessions also examined the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and data science in addressing inequities and developing gender-sensitive innovations, such as gender-based scheduling for micromobility. The event also explored the limitations of AI in achieving gender inclusion within AI-powered transportation systems.
Conference topics covered a wide range of transportation modes, including pedestrian and active mobility (cycling and scooters), public transit, automotive, rail, aviation, and maritime systems. This comprehensive focus allowed for discussions that reflected the diverse needs and challenges faced by transportation users and stakeholders across sectors.
WGiT 2024 contributed to global conversation on gender equity in transportation, addressing issues ranging from creating a gender-inclusive workforce to ensuring equitable access to transportation systems. By highlighting key challenges and innovative practices, the conference lay a foundation for future research, policy development, and systemic transformation. This summary report reflects the insights shared during these discussions, capturing notable emerging practices and strategies for fostering inclusive and equitable transportation systems worldwide.
