The Center for Connected and Automated Transportation (CCAT) is dedicated to nurturing student talent and celebrating achievements within the dynamic field of connected and automated transportation. We actively engage students through collaborative opportunities and recognize their innovative contributions.

Fostering Student Growth and Collaboration

CCAT is committed to student success and actively collaborates with student chapters of organizations such as the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), ITS Michigan, and both the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) and Michigan Transportation Student Organization (MiTSO) at the University of Michigan. Our goal is to attract more students to the exciting field of connected and automated transportation.

Furthermore, CCAT provides graduate students with opportunities to advance their academic knowledge through team-oriented research and activities specifically designed to develop their leadership skills, preparing them for impactful careers.

On a yearly basis, CCAT provides students the opportunity to showcase their research at the annual CCAT Global Symposium. Click the button below to explore those who showcased their work in the most recent Global Symposium.

Student of the Year (SOYA) Award

The Center for Connected and Automated Transportation (CCAT) Student of the Year Award (SOYA) annually recognizes an outstanding graduate student demonstrating exceptional achievements within the CCAT research and education ecosystem. This prestigious award highlights excellence in technical merit and research capability, academic performance, and leadership. The $2,000 award is part of a nationwide effort to recognize and encourage outstanding achievement in students involved with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) University Transportation Centers (UTCs). The CCAT is one of 10 competitive Regional UTCs sponsored by the USDOT. More information about the selection process can be found below.

SOYA Selection Process & Eligibility Requirements

SOYA Selection Process

Each UTC should establish a selection committee consisting of faculty representatives from each consortium university and external reviewers, if desired. This committee will evaluate written documentation submitted by students and will select the awardee from that UTC. The student should submit the following information to the selection committee to assist it in its deliberations:

• Academic transcript and short vita
• Nomination letter from at least one faculty member
• Copy of paper(s) written by the nominee

Eligibility Requirements

• Eligible candidates must be selected from within the consortia of the lead university.
• Only one candidate per consortia can receive the award.
• Eligible candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. (There is no exception to this policy.)
• Eligible candidates must have received financial support from the UTC program for at least two semesters prior to receiving the award.
• Eligible candidates must have completed with a grade of B or better at least 12 hours of graduate course work at the time the selection is made, and have a graduate GPA in excess of 3.25 (out of 4.00). (Undergraduate students are not eligible).
• Eligible candidates must be currently enrolled within the consortia making the selection.
• Previously selected recipients and recent graduates are not eligible.

Selection Criteria

Selection should be based upon accomplishments in three areas:

• Technical Merit and Research Capability
• Academic Performance
• Leadership

Evidence of technical and research capability merit is based upon faculty nomination and evaluation of submitted written papers or reports. Academic performance is based upon completed courses and grades attained. Evidence of professionalism and leadership can be in the form of presentations at professional society meetings and symposia, and leadership in student professional activities.

 

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Connect and Grow with MiTSO – Michigan Transportation Student Organization

The Michigan Transportation Student Organization (MiTSO) offers a dynamic platform for students interested in transportation engineering and planning. As a chartered Student Chapter of the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), MiTSO provides diverse opportunities to explore professional, academic, research, and mentorship pathways at both the university and industry levels.

Engage with fellow graduate and undergraduate students through a variety of MiTSO events, including career panels, social gatherings, facility tours, technical competitions, and an insightful speaker series.

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ITS Michigan