Abstract: Rapid advancements in automation, Electric Vehicles (EVs), connected infrastructure, and other emerging transportation technologies are transforming workforce demands across the transportation sector. However, K–12 workforce preparation has not kept pace with these changes. Internal surveys indicate a significant awareness gap, with 95% of middle school students reporting limited knowledge of transportation careers beyond traditional driving-related occupations. This challenge is compounded by educator knowledge gaps, a lack of classroom-ready and standards-aligned instructional resources, limited transportation-focused professional development opportunities, and minimal collaboration among researchers, educators, and industry partners.

As transportation systems continue to evolve, there is an urgent need to equip educators with the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to introduce students to emerging transportation careers and technologies. Professional development serves as a scalable technology transfer strategy that connects transportation research to classrooms and communities, enabling educators to integrate real-world transportation concepts into instruction. Addressing these barriers can strengthen workforce readiness, expand student awareness of transportation career pathways, and foster stronger partnerships among K–12 schools, universities, and industry stakeholders. This work highlights the critical need for targeted educator professional development and resource development to prepare the next generation of transportation professionals in an increasingly connected and technology-driven transportation ecosystem.