Center for Transportation Research
Through research and collaboration, The Center for Transportation Research at the Tickle College of Engineering addresses emerging challenges in the transportation system.
Mobility Research at UTK
Transportation Solutions to Move Your World
The Center for Transportation Research (CTR) has been a nationally and internationally recognized research entity at The University of Tennessee since 1972. Today, CTR has over $10M in sponsored programs, providing increased opportunities for students and researchers. Considering the breadth of our transportation system, the quality of newly graduated transportation students must be of the highest caliber. CTR supports the Tickle College of Engineering’s mission to supply well-educated transportation students to a growing field of transportation professionals.
Our 2024 Annual Report and Director’s Message
Dear Colleagues, Partners, and Friends,
As we conclude another year for CTR, I am excited to share the highlights of our achievements and our aspirations for the future. This past year has been one of unprecedented growth and collaboration, reinforcing our position as a leader in transportation, having impact on our local communities and worldwide.
Click the button below to finish reading the message from our director or download the 2024 Annual Report as a PDF.
CTR has Advanced Railroad Training for Over 30 Years and Counting
For over 30 years, the University of Tennessee’s Center for Transportation Research (CTR) has been a leader in providing specialized education and training to the railroad industry. With a strong commitment to safety, innovation, and industry best practices, CTR offers a wide range of courses designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in railroad operations, maintenance, and engineering.
Our railroad training programs serve professionals at all levels, from those new to the industry to seasoned experts looking to expand their expertise. CTR also works closely with clients to develop customized courses tailored to specific operational needs and regulatory requirements.
UT Awarded $1 Million through Transportation Network Growth Opportunity Initiative
This May, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) awarded a total of $1 million to two research teams blending academic and industry expertise within the University of Tennessee System.
The award will be split evenly between grant recipient teams from UT Knoxville and UT Chattanooga. The UT Knoxville team is spearheaded by Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Professor Kevin Heaslip, who is also the director of UT’s Center for Transportation Research (CTR). In collaboration with NTT DATA, the team will create a public-facing website that integrates live data and disaster simulations so users can prepare for, and safely navigate, a variety of natural disasters.
News
- What Experts and Residents Think About Knoxville Tennessee’s Rising Population and Traffic
- From Hoarding to Donating: Researching Strategies for Disasters
- 09/27/25: AMIL at the Knoxville Drive Electric Festival
