Technology and Transportation Futures Program

Former Secretary of Transportation, Mr. Rodney E. Slater, unveiled the Garrett A. Morgan Technology and Transportation Futures Program (GAMTTFP) in May 1997 in Cleveland, Ohio, the birthplace of Garrett A. Morgan, an African-American inventor and entrepreneur. This national educational initiative was established to reach and challenge one million students of all ages to focus on math, science and technology skills in order to prepare themselves for the transportation workforce of the 21st century. Based on partnerships among all sectors of the transportation enterprise, GAMTTFP serves as a catalyst to enhance transportation education among youth through internships, mentoring, career and curriculum development, and other transportation-related activities. By the year 2000 GAMTTFP attained its initial goal to reach one million students.

Since its inception, partnerships have been a key component of the GAMTTEP and partnerships will continue to play a crucial role in the program. To ensure that transportation is an integral part of the program, the eligible parties (SEAs and LEAs) are strongly encouraged to enter into a partnership agreement with the State Department of Transportation (DOT). LEAs should also consider partnering with their respective SEAs in order to enhance efficiency and effectiveness within the State and maximize program impact. SEAs may also seek out opportunities to partner with other SEAs. In addition, SEAs and LEAs are strongly encouraged to partner with institutions of higher education, businesses, or other entities to enhance the program’s impact in terms of geographic span, target audiences, skill sets, and other key elements. Partners should include a diverse group of professional, technical, community, and minority-based organizations, disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs), and others, and should be strategically selected based on their knowledge, expertise, or experience in advancing program goals. Both monetary and in-kind contributions should be encouraged to better leverage funding and maximize the programs’ reach and impact.

Currently, total federal funding in the amount of $1,100,000 is available for up to 11 awards. Local educational agencies (LEAs) and State educational agencies (SEAs) are eligible to apply for these grants. Deadline for applications will be February 21, 2011. For a listing of other Department of Transportation Partnerships, see this link.