Looking ahead to technological trends in 2026
Key Takeaways
- The future of zero-emission transportation: The Season 2 finale kicks off with Mass Transit magazine Associate Editor Noah Kolenda providing in-depth analysis on where the public transportation industry stands on the inclusion of zero-emission buses into its fleet. The hosts are shocked to find out how much propane-fueled buses are being used.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay: Returning guests Jay Wratten and Chris Harman from WSP USA tell Roads and Bridges’ Jessica Parks that AI was introduced into workflows in 2025 and that they are not going away.
- A focus on digital in 2026: Wratten and Harman believe that in 2026, the industry is going to focus more on digital projects, including digital twins.
Episode Summary:
On the Season 2 finale of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast, Gavin, Brandon, and Jessica are joined by Noah, who breaks down the U.S. transit industry’s zero-emission bus transition, including fleet size, propulsion types, infrastructure gaps, and the impact of tariffs. Returning guests Jay Wratten and Chris Harman from WSP review their 2025 technology predictions, discussing what came true and how AI, digital twins, USDOT requirements, and digital delivery are accelerating into 2026. The episode highlights the latest trends in digital infrastructure and smart transportation, giving listeners a clear look at the future of mobility.
Episode length: 01:21:38
About the guests:
Jay Wratten
Jay Wratten is the Executive Digital Lead for WSP USA and the company’s Global Smart Places Lead. He has been with WSP since 2006, holding multiple leadership roles, most recently as Senior Vice President leading the Property and Buildings Market Innovation and Advisory Services practice. Jay began his career in WSP’s San Francisco lighting design team and has contributed to landmark projects including Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from the University of Kansas and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).
Chris Harman
Chris Harman leads WSP’s digital delivery offerings, focusing on connected data environments, digital twins, and innovative approaches across planning, design, construction, and asset management. He collaborates with experts in modeling, simulation, data management, systems integration, and AI to help clients maximize the value of their data. His experience spans major civil infrastructure projects in the U.S., UK, and Middle East, with expertise in corporate design technology and aviation projects. Harman supports a broad range of design disciplines across the AEC market, driving enterprise-level digital strategy and innovation.
Episode Summary:
On the Season 2 finale of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast, Gavin, Brandon, and Jessica are joined by Noah, who breaks down the U.S. transit industry’s zero-emission bus transition, including fleet size, propulsion types, infrastructure gaps, and the impact of tariffs. Returning guests Jay Wratten and Chris Harman from WSP review their 2025 technology predictions, discussing what came true and how AI, digital twins, USDOT requirements, and digital delivery are accelerating into 2026. The episode highlights the latest trends in digital infrastructure and smart transportation, giving listeners a clear look at the future of mobility.