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The transportation industry is rapidly evolving, with self-driving cars, drones, and electric vehicles reshaping how we move. But access to hands-on STEM experiences that prepare students for these changes isn’t always avaliable—especially in rural communities.

Researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, funded by the Center for Regional and Rural Connected Communities (CR2C2) are addressing that gap through the Advanced Mobility Innovation Lab (AMIL)—a mobile lab designed to make transportation technology education more.

Built inside a portable trailer, AMIL brings university-level research and real-world technology directly to students. The lab features four interactive stations:

• Self-driving vehicle technologies

• Smart traffic control systems

• Drone and aerial mobility tools

• Electric vehicles, including e-scooters and the Ford F-150 Lightning
  
  

In its first event, AMIL reached more than 250 students, allowing them to engage directly with the latest innovations in mobility. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive—132 of 156 surveyed students said they learned something new, and teachers emphasized that the lab “filled a real gap” for their students.

By connecting research with community outreach, CR2C2 aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators—and ensure that every student, regardless of geography, has access to the future of transportation. As the project expands across the Southeast, the Advanced Mobility Innovation Lab continues to demonstrate that innovation should be for everyone—not just a select few.

Thanks to the USDOT University Transportation (UTC) program and partners for supporting this research and outreach effort.

Link to the project details: https://www.cr2c2.com/education-and-outreach/ewd-reeg-initiatives/project-r-ewd-1