2025 ADTSEA National Conference

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ADTSEA-FL at the 2025 ADTSEA National Conference

In July 2025, ADTSEA-FL proudly represented Florida at the annual ADTSEA National Conference, bringing our state’s voice to the national stage of driver and traffic safety education.

Presentations

Our CEO, Derek Stewart, delivered two well-received sessions:

• Mastery Over Minutes – Rethinking Time-Based Driver Education
  Derek, joined by co-presenter Rachel Wilson (AAA), challenged traditional time-based approaches to licensing and made a compelling case for competency-based models. The session emphasized the promise of telematics, simulation, and scenario-based assessments as tools to measure true readiness.
• FLVS & Trypscore – Telematics and Teen Driving Behavior
  This presentation highlighted findings from a major study evaluating the impact of driver education on real-world driving behavior. While results showed no statistically significant difference in safety outcomes between FLVS students and non-FLVS peers, the overall benefits of telematics in monitoring and improving teen driver safety were clear. The session drew strong interest and led to an invitation from the Transportation Research Board (TRB) to submit a proposal for its annual conference — a powerful recognition of Florida’s leadership in driver education research.

Committee and Leadership Involvement

Derek was selected to serve on ADTSEA’s Position Statements Committee, which will guide the organization’s national advocacy on critical issues such as standards, instructor conduct, and the modernization of Guideline No. 4. Florida’s perspectives will now directly influence national driver education policy.

Additionally, Derek participated in the Southeast Region Meeting, reporting on Florida’s progress as a newly formed state affiliate. Key topics included strengthening connections among Southeastern states, sharing resources for instructor training, and aligning priorities on legislative advocacy.

Recognition of ADTSEA-FL

Throughout the week, ADTSEA-FL was recognized multiple times — at the Board of Directors meeting, the Southeast Regional meeting, and the State Association session — for successfully establishing and growing our state association. This recognition reflects the dedication of our board and executive team, who have worked tirelessly to elevate Florida’s role in the national conversation.

At the Board of Directors Meeting, Florida was highlighted as a model for state association development, particularly in championing core functions, fostering partnerships, and supporting both school-based and commercial driver education stakeholders.

Sponsorship and Partnerships

Ahead of the conference, Derek and Jennifer Hall attended a Lifesaver ISA event in Windemere, FL. Conversations with Brent Rose and the Lifesaver ISA team showed strong potential for sponsorship and partnership opportunities that can support ADTSEA-FL’s mission in the coming year.

Looking Ahead

Although Florida’s presence at this year’s event was limited, next year’s conference in Raleigh, NC offers the opportunity for our strongest showing yet. We encourage members to begin considering participation — both to share Florida’s progress and to bring new ideas home.

Key Takeaways

• Florida’s leadership in telematics research is gaining national recognition.
• Our seat on ADTSEA’s Position Statements Committee ensures Florida voices are heard at the national level.
• ADTSEA-FL was recognized by peers and board leaders as a credible and growing state association.
• The Southeast Region meeting provided opportunities to align with neighboring states on advocacy and resources.
• New sponsorship opportunities are emerging to strengthen our programs.

ADTSEA-FL’s participation in the national conference demonstrates how far we’ve come in a short time, and how much potential lies ahead. Together, we are building a stronger future for Driver Education and Traffic Safety in Florida.