IBTTA Foundation Now Accepting Applications For 2025 Scholarships: Driving Opportunities for Tomorrow’s Transportation Workforce

Media Contact:
Tanya Sheres
202.304.7805
[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2025

WASHINGTON — The IBTTA Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 IBTTA Foundation Scholarships. This program awards scholarships to exceptional students pursuing careers in transportation and tolling, reinforcing IBTTA’s commitment to fostering a future-ready workforce.

IBTTA President James Hofmann, who is also the Executive Director/CEO of the North Texas Tollway Authority, emphasized the program’s impact:

"We are incredibly proud to support talented and driven individuals as they embark on their journeys into the transportation workforce. In the face of a workforce crisis within the industry, we must work together to inspire the next generation of leaders and professionals. We simply cannot afford to leave any talent on the sidelines," Hofmann said.

IBTTA Executive Director and CEO Kathryn Clay echoed Hofmann’s sentiments.

"Through this scholarship program, we are not only investing in the future of transportation but also ensuring that every capable student has the opportunity to contribute to the vital work that lies ahead," Clay said.

A Closer Look at the Transportation Workforce Crisis

The transportation industry faces an urgent workforce shortage. By 2031, the sector must fill 4.6 million jobs to meet demand, driven by a combination of mass retirements and the need for new, technology-driven skill sets. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Department of Transportation, 50% of the current transportation workforce will retire within the next decade, leaving a significant gap that needs to be filled with younger talent.

This gap is particularly pronounced in areas like automated vehicles, smart infrastructure, and tolling systems, where the demand for tech-savvy professionals is rapidly growing. Programs like the IBTTA Foundation’s scholarships are a critical part of the solution, ensuring that equitable, skilled students are equipped to enter and lead in these emerging fields.

Through its scholarship program, the IBTTA Foundation is committed to developing a strong pipeline of future professionals ready to address transportation industry challenges and drive its progress.

Apply Now for the 2025 IBTTA Foundation Scholarships

Applications for the 2025 IBTTA Foundation Scholarships are now open and will be accepted through April 18. The program provides $5,000 scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students working towards transportation-related degrees at accredited universities. The competitive selection process ensures that top candidates receive support for their academic and career aspirations.

The scholarship program launches each spring and is administered by Scholarship America®, the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships, tuition assistance, and other education support programs. Awards are granted without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender, disability, or national origin. The application period is now open, with awardees notified by July.
 

###

About IBTTA and the IBTTA Foundation

The International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) is the global association for toll facility owners, operators, and businesses, dedicated to advancing transportation solutions through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Founded in 1932, IBTTA promotes innovation and improved transportation systems worldwide.

The IBTTA Foundation, IBTTA’s charitable arm, supports education, research, and workforce development. Through scholarships, internships, and outreach, the Foundation helps ensure a diverse and skilled future for the transportation industry.

For more information, visit www.ibtta.org and www.ibtta.org/foundation.