Summer 2026 Transportation Innovation Camp at UTRGV – Safety21, NSF, and TxDOT

Experiencing Autonomous Mobility in a Driving Simulator

High school students experienced autonomous driving through an interactive simulator demonstration led by H-SMART Lab graduate researchers. The activity introduced the fundamentals of autonomous vehicle technologies, human–AI interaction, and the challenges of designing safe and trustworthy transportation systems.

Exploring Brain Activity and Human-AI Interaction

Students explored how brain activity can be measured using electroencephalography (EEG) devices and how such data can improve the design of human-centered transportation systems. Graduate researchers demonstrated the role of neuroscience and artificial intelligence in understanding driver behavior and trust in emerging mobility technologies.

Designing Safe and Intelligent Transportation Systems

H-SMART Lab graduate students introduced participants to the principles of transportation safety, cyber-physical transportation systems, and trustworthy AI. Through interactive presentations and discussions, students learned how data, sensing technologies, and AI are transforming the planning and operation of safer, smarter transportation networks.

Exploring AI and Cyber-Physical Transportation Systems

High school students took part in hands-on sessions on AI-enabled cyber-physical transportation systems, where they explored how data, sensing, and trustworthy AI can be used to design safer, more intelligent mobility networks. Through interactive demos and discussions, they learned how emerging technologies shape the future of safe and intelligent mobility.

Student-Led Projects on Safe and Trustworthy Mobility

Camp participants worked in teams to develop and present group projects on AI in transportation, cyber-physical systems, and safety. Students shared their ideas, data explorations, and solutions, practicing both technical thinking and public communication.

Integrating Math and Engineering into the Classroom

High school teachers participated in a CREST-supported workshop focused on strengthening math instruction through real-world engineering applications. Sessions connected core mathematical concepts with smart infrastructure and transportation examples that teachers can bring back to their classrooms.