This year, we’re thrilled to announce Jason Sims, Director of Transportation for FIFA 2026 and a key figure at the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), as our keynote speaker. With more than 25 years of industry expertise, Jason embodies what it means to be a true “Transit Champion.” He has made a name for himself in areas like traffic operations, transportation safety, and system innovation. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the launch of the Kansas City Scout Traffic Management Centre back in 2003. Drawing from his tenure at the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and leadership in private-sector consulting, Jason is uniquely prepared to help deliver a world-class transportation experience for the 2026 World Cup.
Over the coming year, Jason faces the enormous responsibility of shaping transit logistics for the FIFA World Cup. With millions of fans, players, and dignitaries set to descend on Kansas City, the local transportation system will be vital in keeping things moving smoothly while reducing road congestion. From bus rapid transit and streetcars to expanded rail options, the city’s growing mix of transit infrastructure is poised to support the surge in travel. While the challenge is significant, KCATA’s solid foundation gives Jason and his team a strong starting point to build on.
Curious about how Kansas City is preparing? Dive into these Transit Unplugged podcast episodes for a closer look at the city’s evolving transit network:
Our theme for this year—“Transit Champions: Leading the Way to a Connected, Sustainable Future”—carries significance in every word. Kansas City is celebrated for its championship teams, and with the FIFA World Cup arriving next year, even more champions will take the spotlight. But to us, “Transit Champions” goes beyond sports—we see it in each of us working to improve how people move.
Whether we’re adopting innovative technologies, shaping policy, or building transit systems that better serve communities, we all play a part. Through our collective efforts, we optimize efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and push transit forward.
Each of us becomes a “Transit Champion” by supporting a cleaner environment, promoting equitable access, and paving the way for future generations to benefit from dependable, sustainable transportation. As we gather at ThinkTransit to share ideas and explore new technology, we’ll return to our agencies energized to lead the way—and to inspire more champions in our field.
Join us at ThinkTransit 2025 in Kansas City—host city of the 2026 FIFA World Cup—and hear from keynote speaker Jason Sims and other prominent transit leaders. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the movement shaping the future of connected, sustainable mobility. Register today!