First, research proves that existing Transportation professionals need expanded and current knowledge on a continuing basis in order to do their jobs more effectively. Second, there is a growing shortage of professionals entering and then remaining in Transportation jobs. Thus, we also hope to attract new people and expand University Transportation programs and student bodies.

The focus audience for the program is existing professionals employed or seeking employment in a highway or transit agency. A secondary audience includes individuals from supporting disciplines who may be interested in applying their skills to Transportation. It is designed for public sector as well as private sector employees who have a Bachelor’s degree in hand in any discipline. We believe there are several reasons people will be attracted to the program: job promotion or pay increase requirements; job seeking requirements; professional registration requirements; or a desire to "test the water" before applying for a Master’s Degree. Employers will be encouraged to provide financial support, as they will benefit from better educated employees. We anticipate this will be viewed as a prestigious program that is supported by the Professional Associations.

Initial meetings on curriculum development have identified possible directions, and more research will be undertaken to be certain we target the anticipated demand. It will most likely have a technical core, with options. It will be multi-modal and multi-disciplinary in nature.

The FHWA’s National Highway Institute has provided seed funding to launch the program. We will be seeking support from many additional sources to fund a small central administrative operation. We expect the Universities to commit their development funds to establish the curriculum; develop and deliver courses; and evaluate the program.

Front-end planning is underway, including the establishment of a Board of Directors. We expect to select a Consortium by September 30, 2005 and begin classes no later than the summer of 2006.

The FHWA / NHI have established a web-site that is available for all to visit: http://knowledge.fhwa.dot.gov/cops
/elearn.nsf/home?openform

We welcome comments and suggestions, which can be posted there.