The countdown has officially begun for the 2026 SWTA & New Mexico Joint Annual Conference & EXPO, taking place March 30 – April 2, 2026 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

As excitement continues to build, the South West Transit Association (SWTA) and the New Mexico Transit Association (NMTA) have released early highlights from this year’s conference program, giving attendees a preview of the learning, collaboration, and innovation that will take place during the four-day event.

Transit professionals, vendors, policymakers, and industry partners from across the Southwest and beyond will gather in Albuquerque to explore the latest ideas shaping the future of public transportation.

Program Highlights

This year’s conference will feature keynote presentations, breakout sessions, leadership discussions, and industry networking opportunities designed for transit professionals across every area of the industry.

• Attendees can expect sessions covering topics such as:
• Creative funding strategies for transit agencies
• Workforce development and strengthening the transit talent pipeline
• Transit technology and operational innovation
• Safety and compliance best practices
• Paratransit modernization and mobility solutions
• Partnerships between transit agencies, universities, and communities

Leadership and professional development sessions will also explore topics such as creating strong organizational cultures, strengthening engagement across teams, and advancing leadership within the transit industry.

Expo, Networking, and Industry Collaboration

The conference will also feature a dynamic EXPO Hall, where vendors and industry partners will showcase the latest products, technologies, and services supporting transit agencies across the region.

Throughout the event, attendees will have multiple opportunities to connect during networking receptions, sponsored meals, and collaborative sessions designed to bring together transit leaders, innovators, and decision-makers.

Unique Albuquerque Transit Experiences

Conference participants will also have the opportunity to explore local transit operations through special tours and technical experiences, including:

• A behind-the-scenes operations tour of ABQ RIDE
• A technical excursion aboard the Rio Metro Rail Runner Express, traveling between Albuquerque and Santa Fe

These experiences will give attendees a firsthand look at how transit systems operate and serve communities across New Mexico.

The Countdown Continues

With registration already gaining momentum and more program updates still to come, the countdown to Albuquerque is officially underway.

Transit professionals across the region are encouraged to secure their spot and be part of one of the most anticipated transit events of the year.

 Register today at:

SWTA.org