The Good Roads
Annual Conference
Emerging Municipal
Leaders Forum

This event is sponsored by the University of Toronto Mississauga’s Master of Urban Innovation Program.

 University of Toronto Mississauga Master of Urban Innovation Program logo

Are you a student who is just finishing up their education, or a recent grad looking to enter the labour force?

Are you looking for a career that offers professional development, strong benefits, a wide variety of opportunities, and the chance to make a difference in local communities? Have you considered working in the municipal sector? Come hear from professionals in Ontario’s transportation and infrastructure field about careers in local government.

Working for a municipality offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference in the community you live in. These organizations are responsible for essential services that build resilient communities and enhance residents’ quality of life, and it is imperative that they be staffed by qualified and competent individuals. Those in this field help ensure that our infrastructure remains sound, our roads stay clear, and our water is safe to drink. The sector is also aging rapidly, with a significant portion of the workforce approaching retirement. Be part of the next generation of professionals delivering these vital services. With the education and training you are undertaking right now, you have what employers in this field need.

As part of the 2026 Good Roads Conference, attendees of the Emerging Municipal Leaders Forum will have the opportunity to speak directly with municipal professionals about the important work they do every day. Panelists will share their thoughts and experiences with students interested in this type of career. Those in attendance will learn:

  • Why they should consider a career in municipal government;
  • The type of knowledge, skills, abilities/competencies, or qualifications required to work for their municipality;
  • What it takes to succeed;
  • Opportunities for growth;
  • How the industry is evolving; and
  • What to expect in this line of work.

The panel discussion will be followed by a networking session. Students will have the opportunity to speak directly to those working in municipal government.

Student forum attendees also receive a full pass to the Good Roads Conference, with access to all sessions taking place March 29th-April 1st.

Register Here

Speakers

(TBA)

Opening Reception

Following the Emerging Municipal Leaders Forum, attendees are invited to the Good Roads Conference’s opening reception from 5:00-6:30 pm. The reception is a great place to meet other leaders within the municipal sector.

Note: Registration to the Emerging Municipal Leaders Forum grants access to the entire Good Roads Conference (excluding ticketed events) as a Student Delegate. Check out the entire conference program here.

For more information please visit the Good Roads Conference website or contact Andrew Blackburn: andrew@goodroads.ca

FAQs

Is there a cost to attend this event?

Yes, there is a $50 charge (+HST).

Do I need to be a current student?

No, you can also be a recent graduate. This event is intended for current students or fresh grads looking to start their careers. It is not intended for current municipal employees who are furthering their education. Good Roads reserves the right to deny or revoke registration.

Are there ID requirements to enter the event?

Yes, current students will be asked to provide a valid student ID card from an accredited university or college. Recent grads: please bring your most recent student ID card even if it has expired.

Can I attend other sessions at the Good Roads Conference?

Yes, once registered for the Emerging Municipal Leaders Forum, Student Delegates can attend all sessions at the 2026 Good Roads Conference, including study tours (subject to capacity).

***Pre-registration ends at noon on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. However, on-site registration is available on Sunday, March 29***