Events

Delegates will experience a variety of Conference events that provide an ideal opportunity to network, learn, celebrate and be part of the transportation community.

Vancouver Convention Centre | Exhibit Hall B | East Building
Sunday, September 22 | 17:00-19:00 PT

Business casual attire. Cash bars will be available; only credit and debit cards accepted.

Located on Vancouver’s downtown waterfront with a dramatic mountain backdrop, the Vancouver Convention Centre offers a beautiful setting for the TACConf 2024 Welcome Reception. 

Mingle with fellow delegates and enjoy a drink and a few hors d’oeuvres before you hit the town for a late dinner. Explore the Exhibition and enjoy the beauty of Vancouver’s scenery. Plus, beat the Monday rush by picking up your badge on Sunday.

Vancouver Convention Centre, East Convention Level, Exhibition Hall A; Business Casual

This year’s Opening Plenary Session will offer perspectives on the Conference theme, Technology & Transformation, and kick off with welcome remarks from our co-hosts, the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, Translink and the City of Vancouver.

We will celebrate TAC’s 2024 Distinguished Service award winners, leaders who have made tangible and enduring impacts on the association, and thereby on Canada’s transportation sector.

The Opening Plenary will conclude with a keynote presentation by Cameron Schuler, Chief Commercialization Officer & Vice President, Industry Innovation at the Vector Institute. A lively panel discussion, expanding on the topic, will follow the presentation.

Canadian AI: Translating Research to Application

Canada and Vector Institute are globally recognized for Artificial Intelligence research excellence, but what is less well known is that Canadian organizations are some of the best in the world at the adoption, utilization, and integration of AI. Cameron Schuler, Vector’s Chief Commercialization Officer & VP Industry Innovation, will highlight transportation applications of AI, raise awareness of challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and inspire confidence in Canada’s capacity for leadership in AI.

This event will be recorded and made available to registered delegates post-conference.

Vancouver Convention Centre, East Convention Level, Exhibition Hall A; Business Casual

Buffet Lunch 12:00-13:30

Recognizing TAC’s People 12:30-13:00

TAC honours its difference-makers — members who have contributed their time and effort to advance the Association’s work and improve transportation in Canada. The event includes recipients of the:

• TAC Leadership Award
• TAC Individual Contribution Award
• TAC Committee Excellence Award

This event will be recorded and made available to registered delegates post-conference.

North Vancouver Shipyards – SOLD OUT
Monday, September 23 | 18:00-23:00 PT

Casual attire. Cash bars will be available; only credit and debit cards accepted.

The Shipyards District is centrally located on North Vancouver’s vibrant waterfront and offers stunning, unobstructed views of the city’s skyline and the soaring North Shore Mountains. It is one of the city’s oldest and fastest-growing urban neighbourhoods.

Join us for an unforgettable event at two unique venues!

The Polygon Gallery is a one-of-a-kind space to encounter contemporary visual art. Here, you’ll enjoy a reception-style BBQ Dinner. Wander indoors and outdoors to enjoy stunning harbour views and some casual entertainment. Peruse the gallery exhibition* and get 10% off at the gift shop.

* The Polygon’s planned exhibit depicts mature themes.

The Tap & Barrel, across the courtyard from the Polygon Gallery, boasts a beautiful patio (weather permitting) and an alternative menu for those with dietary restrictions. Indulge in honest, regional food, local craft beer, and BC wine on tap.

Guests are welcome to enjoy food at both venues, but for the Tap & Barrel, we ask that priority be given to those with dietary restrictions for the first hour. Everyone will be served dessert at the Polygon.

Part of the fun is getting there!

Transit to and from the event is provided via Seabus, courtesy of Translink. Your all-day Monday transit pass will be provided at the registration desk during badge pick-up.

Volunteers will help attendees navigate the short walk from the Vancouver Convention Centre to the Seabus Terminal.

After a 12-minute ride and another short walk (several hundred metres), guests will arrive at The Shipyards.

Vancouver Convention Centre, East Convention Level, Ballroom C; Business Casual

The WTS Toronto Area Chapter is offering you the opportunity to meet with fellow ‘Women in Transportation’ at the TAC Conference. This continental breakfast mixer is designed to enhance your TAC Conference networking and help you grow your network.

Registration is free, but pre-registration is required. Please return your ticket to the information booth if you are unable to attend.

Vancouver Convention Centre, East Convention Level, Exhibition Hall A; Business Casual

Buffet Lunch 12:00-13:30

Spotlight on Young Professionals 12:30-13:00

Tuesday’s lunch program positions students and young professionals as the future of Canada’s transportation industry. It celebrates individuals who have been role models of excellence and leadership.

The lunch program will include words from the TAC Foundation and the recipients of TAC’s Student and Young Professional Awards.

This event will be recorded and made available to registered delegates post-conference.

Vancouver Convention Centre, East Convention Level, Ballroom C; Business Casual

Students and young professionals are invited to end the day at this casual reception. Network with peers and have the opportunity to learn more about getting involved with TAC’s councils and committees.

Canapés and refreshments will be available.

Vancouver Convention Centre, East Convention Level, Exhibition Hall A ; Business Casual

Buffet Lunch 12:00-13:00

Presentation & Conference Wrap-Up 12: 15-12:45

The program of this final conference event will begin with a fascinating presentation about the Burnaby Mountain Gondola Project. See a gondola and learn how the gondola would provide fast, frequent and reliable service between the SkyTrain and Burnaby.

The many people who contributed to the 2024 Conference & Exhibition will be acknowledged, and attendees will hear about the World Road Congress planned for Vancouver in 2027 and be treated to an exclusive teaser for 2025 TACConf, October 5-8 in Quebec City. Get a glimpse of what awaits in this historical city in one year’s time.

This event will be recorded and made available to registered delegates post-conference.