We call our awards the Zephies. They recognize the people and projects advancing the practice of travel analysis — individuals who embody the Zephyr Principles, and projects that have made a real impact on the field. There are three award categories.

Zephies are presented at the TRB Zephyr reception in January. If you know someone or a project that deserves recognition, please submit a nomination using the Zephyr Awards nomination form.

Zephyr Leadership Award

Given to an individual with a demonstrated history of experience in the field who embodies the Zephyr Principles and mission. Criteria:

• Selflessly contributed to the good of the industry through the body of their work
• Collegial and collaborative, investing in shared technical knowledge and community assets
• Generous with their time through mentorship and other volunteer roles
• Respectful and thoughtful in their interactions
• Goal-oriented towards the public good, even if the pathway is unconventional

2026 recipient: Marty Milkovits »

Zephyr Technical Achievement Award

Given to a project with potential for a positive impact on the field, meeting the majority of the following criteria:

• Implemented, adopted, or applied in practice at least once
• Methodology, formula, or design freely accessible to the public
• Promotes multilateral collaboration
• Advances the travel analysis field for the public good

2026 recipient: the COVID & Telecommuting Team »

Zephyr Impactful Research Award

Given to a project with a proven positive impact on the field, meeting the majority of the following criteria:

• Broadly adopted or implemented in practice
• Improved the approach, skills, or capability of the decision-making process
• Methodology, formula, or design freely accessible to the public
• Promotes multilateral collaboration
• Advances the travel analysis field for the public good

2026 recipient: ActivitySim »

Zephyr Rising Star Award (not awarded every year)

Given to an individual early in their career who embodies the Zephyr Principles and mission of advancing rigorous transportation and land use decision-making for the public good.

Past recipients »