2026 CUTC Summer Meeting
June 15-17, 2026
Graduate by Hilton Auburn
202 W Magnolia Avenue
Auburn, Alabama 36830
Event Details
Participants are responsible for making their own lodging arrangements. A block of hotel rooms has been reserved at the Graduate by Hilton in Auburn. Reservations can be made at at these locations through May 17, 2026, or until the CUTC hotel block is full.
Monday, June 15, 2026
3:00 pm NCAT Test Track / Autonomous Vehicle Facility Tour
6:00 pm Welcome Reception - War Eagle Supper Club
8:00 pm Optional Partner Meetings (RETRC)
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
7:00 am Registration Open
7:00 am Breakfast / Roundtables - Behind the Scenes of Impact: Tools and Strategies for Center Operations (Part 1)
8:30 am Welcome and Opening Remarks - Setting the State for Innovation and Impact
9:00 am USDOT Session
10:30 am Break / Networking
11:00 am Working with State DOTs: Strategies for Effective Collaboration and Implementation of Research
12:00 pm Lunch Keynote - Effective Community Engagement in Areas of Persistent Poverty
1:30 pm CUTC Business Meeting - Elections, Organizational Updates, and Strategic Communications Discussions
3:00 pm Break
3:15 pm The Funding Equation - Building Balance in Your UTC
5:15 pm Depart to Jordan-Hare Stadium
5:30 pm From Field to Flight: An Auburn Evening at Jordan-Hare Stadium
6:30 pm CUTC Summer Meeting Banquet
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
7:00 am Registration Open
7:00 am Breakfast / Roundtables - Behind the Scenes of Impact: Tools and Strategies for Center Operations (Part 2)
7:30 am CUTC Board Meeting (invitation only)
8:30 am Workforce Development in Action: Center Strategies and Best Practices for Implementation
10:00 am Break
10:15 am Embedding Technology Transfer into Your Center's Business Plan
11:45 am Lunch To Go
12:00 pm Optional Partner Meetings (ARTBA RED)
** This agenda is subject to change.
Getting To & From Auburn
Note that there is no direct air service to Auburn, Alabama because it is centrally located within a short drive of two major international airports and one regional airport. The three airports, listed in decreasing size, are listed below.
Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
ATL is located approximately 100 miles from the Auburn campus. It is served by at least 8 major domestic lines and is the primary hub for Delta Air Lines. Atlanta offers non-stop flights to over 160 domestic destinations.
Important Note: When booking your flight to/from Atlanta, please remember the airport is located in an Eastern Time Zone. Auburn, Alabama is in the Central Time Zone.
Rental cars are available for the approximate 90-minute drive to campus. Alternatively, Groome offers a shuttle service from the airport to Auburn. While schedules vary, they often depart hourly throughout the day. More information can be found below.
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)
BHM is located approximately 115 miles from the Auburn campus. It is Alabama's largest airport with nonstop flights to roughly 20 destinations. Major carriers include American, Delta, Southwest, and United. Rental cars are available for the two hour drive to Auburn. There is no shuttle service available.
Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM)
MGM is located approximately 65 miles from the Auburn campus and offers connections to major airline hubs in Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and Houston. Rental cars are available for the one hour drive to Auburn. There is no shuttle service available.
Discover Auburn-Opelika
Experience the Loveliest Village on the Plains
Downtown Auburn has been an anchor for the city and Auburn University for decades. Located just steps from the conference venue, our downtown district offers an eclectic blend of historic charm and modern energy. Experience the unique spirit of the "Loveliest Village on the Plains." We encourage all attendees to take a stroll, enjoy the local flavor, and see why Downtown Auburn is a favorite destination for citizens and visitors alike. Dive into this resource, designed by the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association, to plan your perfect visit between conference events.
Explore Campus Trails
For those looking to stretch their legs, the Auburn University Campus Walking Trails offer a refreshing escape. This network of scenic paths winds through the heart of the university, connecting historic landmarks like Samford Hall with the lush landscapes of the Donald E. Davis Arboretum. Whether you prefer a brisk 20-minute loop or a long, meditative walk under the Toomers oaks, these well-maintained trails provide a perfect glimpse into the beauty of one of the nation’s most iconic campuses. Check out the route options for exploring Auburn University's beautiful campus.
Beyond the University
Beyond the storied traditions of the university, Auburn, Alabama, is a thriving hub of culture, outdoor adventure, and legendary Southern hospitality. Explore parks, family fun attractions, lively bars, breweries, and diverse dining. Whether you're strolling through scenic landscapes or enjoying local flavors, this distinctive place offers something for everyone. Experience America's coolest college town and her hip older sister. Explore a curated guide, developed by Auburn-Opelika Tourism, to the best dining and activities in the area.
Explore the State of Alabama
The state of Alabama offers unforgettable experiences and fun activities such as exploring nature and wildlife, taking self-guided tours, lounging on Alabama beaches, or shopping til you drop, there's never a lack of things to do! For more inspiration on things to do during your stay, visit Experience Alabama.
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U.S. Space & Rocket Center
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Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
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Birmingham Zoo
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Equal Justice Initiative Museums
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USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
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Talladega Superspeedway
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Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
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Huntsville Botanical Garden
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McWane Science Center
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Point Mallard Park
Contact Us
If you run into any issues or have any additional questions, you can reach out to ATAP directly at atap@auburn.edu or call us at (800) 446-0382.