The Missouri Department of Transportation is inviting students across the state to apply for the 2025 Youth Transportation Conference in Jefferson City. Each year, the department sponsors the annual conference where students can apply STEM-related concepts learned in school to transportation-related issues. 

The conference will be held July 7-11 on the campus of Lincoln University and is free to students in grades nine through 12. Students finishing eighth grade this school year and graduating seniors are also eligible to apply. Applications are currently being accepted through March 17. Up to 40 students will be selected to attend. 

The academic conference curriculum includes sessions on bridge building, bridge design, construction and materials, public administration and safety. Other activities include field trips, office and site tours, and speakers from various divisions within MoDOT and related organizations. The conference also allows students to experience numerous careers in transportation and engineering available at MoDOT, while making meaningful connections with department staff as they consider their future career path. 

To apply, students must complete an application accompanied by at least one and up to two letters of recommendation. Interested students can find more information and download the application from the conference website at modot.org/modot-youth-conference-ytc.