Congratulations to Dr. Tae J. Kwon

ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems) Canada Excellence in Research and Development Award

Dr. Kwon received the prestigious ITS Canada Excellence in Research and Development Award, an accolade awarded annually to an outstanding individual in Canada for significant contributions to the field of intelligent transportation systems (ITS). This recognition came as a result of his innovative work in developing a prototype AI-driven tool for monitoring and forecasting winter road conditions. This system is designed to transform winter road maintenance from traditional labour-intensive methods to a sophisticated, data-driven advisory system, thereby enhancing safety and mobility for winter travellers. Initially supported by several US state departments of transportation, the initiative is now being expanded to include the development of a decision support system specifically tailored for Canadian winters. The award was conferred during the 2024 ITS Canada Conference in Vancouver, which took place from June 19 - 21, 2024.

KOFST (Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies) Scientist of the Year Award

Dr. Kwon was honoured with the KOFST Scientist of the Year Award, bestowed annually by the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies (KOFST). This award recognizes distinguished scientists for their exceptional contributions to science and technology. Dr. Kwon was celebrated for his innovative development of a methodological framework that strategically determines the optimal locations of road weather information system (RWIS) sensor suites. Successfully implemented in various North American state DOTs as well as in Korea, his methodology has transformed protocols for ensuring safe winter travel. The accolade was formally presented by the president of KOFST at the 2024 Canada-Korea Conference held in Banff, from June 16-19, 2024.