Abstract
The technology transfer program between California and Baja California, Mexico, was developed as a result of a Letter of Intent signed in 1993 with the goal of exchanging information in the areas of transportation planning, mass transportation, technology transfer, personnel exchange, and a cross-border library. Since then, a number of courses, field visits, seminars, and other activities in the areas of transportation have been successfully carried out. In the process a number of challenges have been overcome, including different languages, customs, and an international border. Recent challenges, including political turnovers, a limited audience, and general versus specialized staff have manifested themselves, and proposed strategies to address them are presented. A new approach to technology transfer was recently approved by FHWA and the Baja California state government. It is divided into the following five global areas: (a) institutional development and management, (b) traditional and innovative funding mechanisms, (c) highway-related technologies, (d) advanced U.S. technologies, and (e) regulatory frameworks. Three focus groups will be identified for selective training in these areas. They consist of upper management decision makers, middle management and higher-level engineers and planners, and mid-level engineers and other technical personnel. Several activities have been implemented under this approach; some are continuing, including a pilot personnel exchange, and others are planned for the future.
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