Girls Explore the Future of Transportation at the WTS Capital Summit
Girls Inc. of Alameda County attended the 2026 WTS (Women's Transportation Seminar) Capital Summit, a week-long leadership and career exploration experience hosted at the University of Maryland through the WTS Foundation's Transportation YOU initiative.
Thanks to our partners at WTS San Francisco Bay Area, Girls Inc. of Alameda County joined this initiative where youth and mentors from across the country gathered to explore careers in transportation, engineering, and infrastructure through hands-on learning, industry tours, and leadership development.
Experiences like the WTS Capital Summit are an important part of our workforce development continuum that aims to prepare youth for whatever path they choose after high school.
High school attendee, Naysa, reflected on what the experience meant to her:
"One of my favorite parts of the week was meeting other students and mentors from all over. Even though we all came from different places, we learned from each other and became friends through team challenges and activities."
Throughout the week, participants challenged themselves on a high ropes course, toured the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's Integrated Command and Communications Center, visited the U.S. Capitol, explored the B&P Tunnel Replacement construction project, met engineers and transportation professionals, and participated in engineering design challenges and workshops. Each experience offered a firsthand look at the many career pathways that are shaping the future of our communities.
Naysa also shared how the summit expanded her understanding of career possibilities:
"Before this trip, I didn't realize how many different careers there are in transportation and infrastructure. Touring active projects, meeting engineers, and seeing how people work together to solve real problems showed me just how many opportunities are out there."
From career exploration and industry field trips to internships, apprenticeships, mentorship, and college and career readiness, we intentionally connect girls with professionals and real-world experiences that help them discover new possibilities and prepare for successful futures.
We are deeply grateful to WTS San Francisco Bay Area for making this opportunity possible and for helping our participants see themselves in industries where women continue to be underrepresented.
Help open doors to career exploration, mentorship, and workforce development experiences that empower more girls to discover their potential. Make your gift today.
I loved reading about the WTS Capital Summit! It’s inspiring to see young women exploring careers in transportation. I recently played Drift Boss, which emphasizes precision and strategy—skills that are just as vital in transportation planning.