GFT Facilitates Emergency Response Tech & Demo Day at the 2026 ITS America Conference & Expo

One of the most memorable moments of the day came through a partnership with Torc. Together, we brought an autonomous semi-truck to the conference, giving attendees a rare opportunity to climb into the cab and experience the autonomous technology firsthand. The access was intentional. Understanding how autonomous and connected vehicles operate is increasingly relevant for first responders, who must be prepared to interact with these vehicles at incident scenes. Getting inside the cab provided a tangible, ground-level perspective.

Working together with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and other key technology and public safety partners, the event provided a firsthand look at how agencies are equipping first responders with tools to operate faster and safer in the field.

The demonstration illustrated three core outcomes now achievable through technology integration: 

• Faster response: Connected systems and real-time video feeds from drones flying beyond the visual line of sight are helping first responders reach incidents more quickly. 
• Better preparedness: Arriving with more information means teams can begin effective intervention from the moment they arrive. 
• Safer operations: Technology is reducing risk for responders and the people they serve during medical and rescue activities. 

The demonstration’s collaborative nature – spanning state transportation, municipal, and private-sector partners – reflected the coordination between state and municipal agencies and private-sector partners to advance transportation technology integration.