TULSA, OKLAHOMA — October 13, 2026 — The South West Transit Association (SWTA) is turning up the volume on the future of public transportation with the announcement of its 2027 Annual Conference & EXPO, themed “ROCK THE RIDE: Tune Up the Future of Transit,” taking place January 26–29, 2027, at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa in Catoosa, Oklahoma.

Bringing together public transit professionals, agency leaders, policymakers, transportation innovators, and industry partners from across SWTA's eight-state region and beyond, the annual conference will feature four days of education, collaboration, networking, and opportunities to explore the latest advancements shaping public transportation.

Where Transit Takes Center Stage

Inspired by the energy of Hard Rock Tulsa and the winter season, ROCK THE RIDE 2027 will combine an exciting conference atmosphere with meaningful professional development and industry engagement.

The conference will feature general sessions, concurrent educational workshops, industry discussions, and opportunities to explore the latest technologies, products, and services supporting public transportation.

Educational programming will address important issues facing transit agencies, including federal transportation policy, funding, operations, workforce development, emerging technologies, safety, fleet management, rural and Tribal transit, and community engagement.

Connect, Collaborate, and Explore

The SWTA Industry EXPO will bring together manufacturers, technology providers, consultants, service providers, and other industry partners to showcase solutions and build relationships with transit decision-makers.

Attendees can also look forward to networking receptions, professional connections, and SWTA After Dark, the association's annual outing designed to bring attendees together for a memorable experience inspired by the host destination.

Experience Tulsa

Known for its rich musical heritage, historic Route 66, arts and culture, and welcoming atmosphere, the Tulsa area offers attendees an exciting destination to explore beyond conference sessions.

The host venue, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, provides accommodations, dining, entertainment, and meeting facilities in one location.

Conference Highlights

• Tuesday, January 26: Conference registration and evening welcome reception.
• Wednesday, January 27: Opening general session, educational breakouts, and EXPO opening reception.
• Thursday, January 28: Educational sessions, dedicated EXPO time, industry networking, and SWTA After Dark.
• Friday, January 29: Educational sessions, annual business meeting, industry awards, and closing activities.

SWTA board activities will begin Monday, January 25.

Save the Dates!

SWTA 2027 Annual Conference & EXPO

ROCK THE RIDE — Tune Up the Future of Transit

January 26–29, 2027

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa

777 W. Cherokee Street

Catoosa, OK 74015

Registration details, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, and speaker announcements will be released as planning progresses.

Save the dates and get ready to ROCK THE RIDE!

For conference updates, visit www.swta.org.

About the South West Transit Association

The South West Transit Association (SWTA) represents and supports the public transportation industry across Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Through education, advocacy, professional development, and collaboration, SWTA works to strengthen public transportation and the communities it serves.