Expand the sections below to see complete session details and presentation materials from the conference. Presentation slides are posted with speaker permission; not all sessions have slides available.
You can also download a printable version of the program (PDF).
Tuesday, October 21
Concurrent Sessions 1-8
Session 1: Commercial Driver's Licenses and Masking—What You Don't Know Can Cost Lives, Your Job, and More
Moderator
Becky Putzke, Northwestern Minnesota Law Enforcement Liaison
Speaker
Jim Camp, National Traffic Law Center
Commercial vehicles pose increased safety risks because of their size and weight, which is why commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders are held to higher professional standards. Federal law prevents traffic violations from being “masked” or hidden from a CDL holder’s driving record. Cases related to this are subject to strict federal regulations, and it’s essential for law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges to understand how to handle them appropriately. This session explored what actions can be taken in cases involving CDL holders and the potential consequences of non-compliance with federal requirements.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 2: Meet the CPS Manufacturers—Chicco and Axkid
Moderator
Nichole Korth, Regions Hospital
Speakers
Courtney Barry, Chicco
Katie Blozis, Axkid
Attendees heard from several car seat manufacturers as they showcased new and updated products, shared key safety and usability features, and highlighted changes in response to evolving standards. This session offered valuable insights and hands-on knowledge to support work with families and caregivers.
Approved for 1 CPS CEU credit.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 3: Walking and Biking Education in Minnesota
Moderator
Sarah McGeary-DeHaan, Southwest Minnesota TZD Coordinator
Speakers
Lisa Bender, Alta Planning and Design
Kelly Corbin, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Angela Olson, Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota
The Minnesota Department of Transportation is developing the next phase of youth walking and biking education to support schools in meeting new legislative requirements. These new materials will complement the existing “Walk! Bike! Fun!” curriculum with easy-to-use materials that are adaptable for multiple classroom types. This session highlighted the planned materials and lessons learned after 10 years of “Walk! Bike! Fun!,” and partnerships that support safe walking and biking skills for Minnesota youth.
Materials
Session 4: DWI Dashboard and DWI eCharging Update
Moderator
Frank Scherf, Northeastern Minnesota Law Enforcement Liaison
Speaker
Mike Asleson, Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Attendees learned about the DWI Dashboard, which contains data and tools for trend analysis to help prevent and respond to impaired driving crashes and arrests. The session also provided an overview of eCharging, which allows law enforcement to electronically prepare and submit documents for proper charging, warrants, orders for detention, and more.
Materials
Session 5: Driving Safety Forward—Data and Prediction on Our Roads
Moderator
Lt. Jon Wenzel, Minnesota State Patrol
Speakers
Katy Kressin, West Central Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Lt. Jon Wenzel, Minnesota State Patrol
This session explored how cutting-edge data analytics and predictive modeling are transforming road safety. The speakers introduced an innovative crash foresight tool from the traffic safety data analytic project, designed to pinpoint high-risk locations for fatal and life-changing crashes. Experts demonstrated real-world applications, discussed proactive countermeasures, and outlined methodologies for assessing their impact. Additionally, the speakers highlighted the Road Safety Information Center (RSIC)'s role in using data-driven insights—powered by AI—to analyze real-time and historical data, forecast crash risk, and guide proactive enforcement strategies. This evolving approach enhances safety, improves accessibility, and fosters more informed decision-making, showcasing how it is evolving to significantly reduce roadway fatalities.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 6: Cold Casualty Care—Managing Hypothermia and Frostbite in Crash Victims
Moderator
Sarah McGeary-DeHaan, Southwest Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Speaker
Mark Johnston, Regions Hospital Burn Center
This session provided essential guidance for responders on managing and properly caring for crash victims presenting with hypothermia or frostbite, particularly given the extreme conditions often encountered during Minnesota winters. Participants learned to identify the signs and symptoms of these cold-related injuries and implement effective field treatments, addressing the unique challenges posed by cold weather environments to improve patient outcomes. The discussion covered critical considerations for on-scene stabilization and preparing patients for transport in frigid temperatures.
Materials
Session 7: Reducing the RISK—Traffic Incident Management
Moderator
Krysten Foster, Stonebrooke Engineering
Speakers
Tony Kasella, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Aimee Eggen, Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Lt. Andrew Martinek, Minnesota State Patrol
Minnesota Traffic Incident Management (TIM) focuses on the critical collaboration between responders of many different disciplines (dispatch/communications, EMS/Air Care, fire, law enforcement, maintenance/engineering, medical examiner, tow operator). Attendees learned how TIM helps improve safety for both responders and the public while minimizing the impact of traffic incidents. Using TIM best practices to clear incidents more quickly and safely can reduce injuries and fatalities to responders and motorists. This session offered an overview of the TIM program in Minnesota, including the role of coalitions, and how to register for TIM training in your community to ensure a coordinated response.
Materials
Session 8: An Update on the Oral Fluid Pilot Project
Moderator
Jaren Zech, Edina Police Department
Speakers
Mike Hanson, Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Sgt. Tyler Milless, Minnesota State Patrol
In this session, presenters provided a detailed overview of the Oral Fluid Pilot Project. Attendees gained insight into where we are now and where we are going.
Materials
Lunch Plenary
Plenary: Finding Your Beat—The Rhythm of Life
Moderator
Brian Sorenson, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Speaker
Tim Eggebraaten, Off-Duty Chief, LLC
Tim Eggebraaten knows the importance of paying attention to the rhythm of life. Having worked in the criminal justice field for 28 years, he is an expert at working the beat and has learned through experience the value of discovering harmony in it all. We all face challenges that create our own beat in life when balancing family and careers and struggling to find time for ourselves and our physical, mental, and spiritual health. Attendees were energized, inspired, and entertained as “The Off-Duty Chief” shared strategies and tactics for finding your rhythm!
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Concurrent Sessions 9-24
Session 9: Level Up Your Safety Game—The Power of Partnerships
Moderator
Brynna Knapp, AAA
Speaker
Rahya Geisler, Northeast Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
This presentation championed partnerships as essential for effective injury and violence prevention—including identifying, engaging, and sustaining collaborations; highlighting key principles; and showcasing successful examples. Attendees gained practical strategies for building powerful networks to create safer communities.
Materials
Session 10: Car Seat Detective—A Deep Dive into Manuals
Moderator
Allison Nicolson, Essentia Health Trauma Program
Speaker
Courtney Barry, Chicco
Thid fast-paced, timed Q&A session put attendees' research skills to the test! Participants dug into car seat and vehicle owner’s manuals to find key information and learned how to access accurate details from credible sources—a fun and interactive way to sharpen their tech skills.
Approved for 1 CPS CEU credit.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 11: Stay Informed—Updates on Alcohol Beverage Server Training and Recovery-Friendly Workplaces
Moderator
Sarah McGeary-DeHaan, Southwest Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Speaker
Chief Bryan Schafer (Ret.), Minnesota Safety Council
This session explored recent changes to the organization overseeing Minnesota’s Responsible Beverage Server Training (RBST) program. The presentation highlighted the updated curriculum, including essential learning goals, core topics, and how to effectively implement the training. Attendees were also introduced the Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative and dscovered how Minnesota employers can access free, two-hour reasonable suspicion training to support a healthier, more supportive work environment.
Materials
Session 12: Creative Solutions to Combat Dangerous Driving Behaviors and Traffic Safety Cameras—An Update on the Minnesota Pilot Program
Moderator
Bill Hammes, Metro Minnesota Law Enforcement Liaison
Speakers
Sgt. Adam Moore, South Lake Minnetonka Police Department
Chelsea Moore-Ritchie, SEH
Mark Wagner, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Ethan Fawley, City of Minneapolis
Attendees learned how the Highway 7 Safety Coalition is combining cutting-edge AI technology with student-produced public service announcements to reduce traffic infractions and engage younger drivers. This session also provided an overview of Minnesota’s Traffic Safety Camera Pilot Program, including lessons learned from other agencies, key program standards, and updates on the Minneapolis and MnDOT work zone pilot efforts.
Materials
Session 13: Keeping the Beat Going
Moderator
Becky Putzke, Northwestern Minnesota Law Enforcement Liaison
Speaker
Tim Eggebraaten, Off-Duty Chief, LLC
After inspiring audiences in his keynote "Finding Your Beat, the Rhythm of Life," retired Police Chief and Certified Speaking Professional Tim Eggebraaten took a deeper dive into "Keeping the Beat Going." In this interactive breakout session, Tim helped participants turn inspiration into action by exploring practical ways to maintain optimism, build resilience, and stay balanced long after the applause ends. Drawing from 25 years in law enforcement—including 5½ years as Chief of Police—Tim shared personal stories, real-world strategies, and a dose of humor to help participants face daily challenges with clarity and purpose. Whether participants are in high-stress careers or simply navigating life’s ups and downs, they left this session with renewed energy, actionable tools, and a personal rhythm to keep them moving forward.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 14: High-Tension Cable-Barrier Responder Safety Training
Moderator
Captain Brian Cheney, Minnesota State Patrol
Speaker
Kohl Skalin, Minnesota Department of Transportation
John McClellan, Minnesota Department of Transportation
This session was designed for responders who may encounter high-tension cable-barrier systems. It introduced key factors and potential dangers associated with these systems, equipping participants with essential knowledge for safer and more effective incident response.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 15: Highway 41 Downtown Improvements in Chaska
Moderator
Max Moreland, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Speakers
Greg Weber, Bolton & Menk
Jacob Bongard, Bolton & Menk
Chief Ryan Seibert, City of Chaska Police Department
Chief Stephen Kraus, City of Chaska Fire Department
The Downtown Highway 41 Improvements project in Chaska, Minnesota, exemplifies a successful community-driven initiative aimed at enhancing safety and connectivity while revitalizing the historic downtown area. By transforming a four-lane roadway into a two-lane corridor with turn lanes, a pedestrian tunnel, and extensive streetscaping, the project aimed to reduce traffic crashes and improve pedestrian accommodations. The collaboration among city, county, and state agencies ensured that stakeholder concerns were addressed; community trust was built; and engaging communication strategies kept downtown businesses involved, maintaining the area's vitality.
Materials
Session 16: Cannabis DWI
Moderator
Sgt. Tyler Milless, Minnesota State Patrol
Speakers
Amy Tripp-Steiner, Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office
David Bernstein, Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office
This session walked attendees through the prosecution of a cannabis DWI. What can officers do on the front end to help the prosecution? What do prosecutors have to prove in these complex cases? This session explored each of these questions and more!
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 17: Screening and Assessments of DWI Court Offenders
Moderator
Bill Lemons, Minnesota County Attorneys Association and Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Speakers
Judge Kerry Meyer, Minnesota District Court
Julie Seitz, All Rise
DWI defenders do not all present the same risk and need. Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) is a screening process meant to identify the people more likely to continue driving while impaired. This presentation explained the SBIRT process and the assessment that follows.
Materials
Session 18: Tall Tales—Deep Dive into Best Practice
Moderator
Brooke Homstad, LifeCare Public Health
Speaker
Courtney Barry, Chicco
Best practice statements help simplify complex guidance on transporting children safely—but over time, evolving technology, standards, and interpretations have added layers of confusion. This session took a deep dive into the origins and intent behind these recommendations, clarifying what they really mean and why they matter.
Approved for 1 CPS CEU credit.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 19: Empowering Change—How Teens Can Drive the Movement Toward Zero Deaths
Moderator
Sue Johnson, Northwest Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Speakers
Minnetonka High School Teachers
Edina High School Students
Pennington County Teen TZD
This session highlighted students across the state who are making changes and leading initiatives in their schools and communities.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 20: Canceled
Session 21: Everything E-Bike—Policy and Best Practices for People, Communities, and Law Enforcement
Moderator
Cheryl Quinn, Advisory Council on Traffic Safety
Speakers
Michael Wojcik, Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota
Caroline Ketcham, Minnesota Department of Transportation
This session covered the evolving topic of E-bike policy and safety. Speakers highlighted the latest updates on e-bike laws, a state-mandated youth e-bike study, identifying illegal e-moto, and best practices for education and enforcement.
Materials
Session 22: Helicopter Landing Zone Training for Public Safety
Moderator
Brooke Ahlers, Life Link III
Speakers
Brooke Ahlers, Life Link III
Kaitlyn Roach, Life Link III
Whether a motor vehicle crash or medical emergency, numerous instances may require a helicopter on scene. Law enforcement, fire personnel, or EMS may be needed to assist with operations from landing to patient loading. In this session, attendees learned considerations for calling for a helicopter, choosing a landing zone, communicating with the aircraft, and operating safely once the asset is on the ground. Participants gained skills to operate efficiently on scene and feel confident using air medical resources!
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 23: Next Gen Safety Planning—Safe Streets for All for Counties and Cities
Moderator
Kristi Sebastian, Federal Highway Administration
Speakers
Renae Kuehl, SRF Consulting Group
Bruce Hasbargen, Beltrami County Highway Department
Victor Lund, St. Louis County Public Works
Tom Musick, Hennepin County
Matt Leonard, City of Monticello
In Minnesota, 6 counties, 24 cities, 4 tribal nations, and 6 planning organizations have received Safe Streets for All (SS4A) planning, demonstration, or implementation grants since 2022. Attendees heard from county and city engineers about their agencies’ approach to SS4A, including safety plans, corridor plans, implementation grants, and future opportunities to advance safety engineering.
Materials
Session 24: Wafting Through the Smoke—A Deeper Dive into Cannabis Impairment to Defeat Misconceptions and Stereotypes
Moderator
Sgt. Tyler Milless, Minnesota State Patrol
Speaker
Officer Jaren Zech, Edina Police Department
Cannabis impairment is a widely contested topic in the realm of traffic safety. This presentation took a physiological approach to explaining cannabis impairment. The information presented can help DREs be more confident in observing cannabis impairment and also help agencies educate their stakeholders about the importance of cannabis DWI enforcement.
Materials
Day 1 Closing Plenary
Plenary: Road Tripping with a Traffic Psychologist—Understanding the "Whole Human" is Necessary for System Safety
Moderator
Catherine Diamond, Minnesota Department of Health
Speaker
Dr. Bryan Porter, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
When it comes to making our roads safer, it's not just about better signs, stronger guardrails, or smarter traffic lights—it’s also about people. Why do drivers speed? Why do pedestrians take risks? And how can we encourage safer choices? That’s where psychology comes in.
Dr. Bryan Porter explored how understanding human behavior—our habits, reactions, and decision-making—can lead to smarter, more effective traffic safety solutions. From brain science to community norms, attendees heard real-world examples of how psychologists are working with engineers, planners, and law enforcement to create safer systems for everyone on the road.
This session inspired new ideas for how collaborating with local psychology experts can breathe new life into safety programs and help save lives.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 25: Legal Update
Moderator
Bill Lemons, Minnesota County Attorneys Association and Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Speakers
David Bernstein, Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office
Amy Tripp-Steiner, Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office
This session covered changes to the law affecting traffic safety, including legislative changes from the previous session and a preview of the upcoming legislative session. In addition, attendees learned about important court decisions from the last year.
Materials
Session 26: Deciphering Child Passenger Safety Technician Lingo—Strategies for Difficult Conversations
Moderator
Greta Miller, Sandford Children's
Speaker
Lyndsey Reece, Children's Minnesota
Dex Tuttle, Children's Minnesota
Curbside conversations can be challenging for a variety of reasons. The session reviewed some strategies for positive interactions when families show up stressed, disinterested or misinformed. How do you respond when they make choices outside of your recommendations? What are some strategies to consider when working with individuals with limited spoken English proficiency? Presenters shared anecdotes from multilingual CPST class participants and stories from community car seat checks when the caregiver communicated through means other than spoken English. Presenters encouraged participants to share what they've learned in difficult scenarios.
Materials
Session 27: It's All About Youth—Lessons Learned from Youth Engagement
Moderator
Paige Lowery, West Metro Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Speakers
Brigitte Bjorklund, Zan Associates
Linda Spohr, Zan Associates
Corrin Wendell, YEP! (Youth Empowerment Program)
This engaging, interactive session explored our youth's vital role in shaping transportation and planning projects. Youth are among our most vulnerable road users, and as we navigate multiyear initiatives, it's crucial to recognize that today's youth will be tomorrow's users, leaders, and stewards of our infrastructure. Education is power, and the more kids know, the safer they will be. This presentation highlighted innovative approaches, shared valuable insights from young people, and showcased best practices for fostering meaningful engagement. Together, we can work toward safer roads for the next generation by ensuring that young people’s voices are heard and valued in the decision-making processes that will shape their future.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 28: State Probation/Parole Outreach Liaison (SPOL)—Supervision of the Impaired Driver
Moderator
Nick White, Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Speakers
Kurt Hoehne, Minnesota Department of Corrections
Josh Swanson, Minnesota Department of Corrections
Nick White, Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Minnesota’s impaired driving recidivism rate has remained stagnant at 40 percent for the last several years. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Corrections on a grant project for State Probation/Parole Outreach Liaisons (SPOLs). Using tools such as DWI Court, ignition interlock, and assessments, probation can provide a consistent means of supervision statewide for impaired driving offenders.
Materials
Session 29: The Minnesota Older Driver Safety Project—How’s It Going? A Report by the Minnesota Emergency Nurses Association
Moderator
Annette Larson, Statewide TZD Program and Operations Director
Speaker
Joan Somes, Minnesota Emergency Nurses Association
The Minnesota Emergency Nurses Association has been working on a project to improve older driver safety in Minnesota. Attendees learned what they have done to increase awareness of changes associated with aging and to help identify aging drivers who have become unsafe. The session also outlined actions that can be taken by those concerned about unsafe drivers and by older drivers themselves to increase their safety on the road.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 30: Post-Crash Care and TZD
Moderator
Matt Simpson, Minnesota Office of Emergency Medical Services
Speakers
Katy Kressin, West Central Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Matt Simpson, Minnesota Office of Emergency Medical Services
Post-crash care is everyone’s responsibility. Participants learned how every moment from the time of crash to a post-crash review can impact traffic victims.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 31: Implementing the 2025–2029 Strategic Highway Safety Plan
Moderator
Ken Johnson, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Speakers
Whitney Mason, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Derek Leuer, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Tim Burkhardt, Alliant Engineering
Hannah Johnson, Alliant Engineering
This session explored the new Minnesota Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP), which aims to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries and ultimately achieve zero fatalities on Minnesota roads. The 2025–2029 SHSP update addresses ongoing challenges, including pandemic-era increases in crashes, and incorporates fresh approaches with input from statewide safety stakeholders and the public. Developed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, and Minnesota Department of Health and prepared by Alliant Engineering, the update includes data analysis, equity impacts, and a prioritization framework. The presentation incorporated interactive activities and a focus on implementation in TZD regions.
Materials
Session 32: It’s a Stimulant, It’s a Prescription…No, It’s Cannabis!
Moderator
Sgt. Tyler Milless, Minnesota State Patrol
Speaker
Trooper Gustavo Culbeaux, Minnesota State Patrol
The legalization of marijuana across Minnesota and the abundance of CBD stores have led to more potent and more concentrated products on the shelf. Meanwhile, street competitors are vying to maintain a potent product as they now face competition. This session discussed how THC levels have changed over the last five years (and continue to change). Speakers reviewed visible and clinical signs of cannabis impairment and explain how to differentiate between cannabis stimulation and stimulation from other substances. Prescription drug and over-the-counter drug DWIs were covered in the second part of this session.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 33: 10 Things You Need to Know About Traffic Enforcement from a Prosecutor
Moderator
Scott McConkey, Southern Minnesota Law Enforcement Liaison
Speakers
Joe Van Thomme, Eckberg Lammers, P.C.
Alexis McKim, Eckberg Lammers, P.C.
This session focused on the top 10 things law enforcement officers need to be aware of when keeping our roads safe from the perspective of experienced prosecutors who present traffic-related cases to judges and juries across the state of Minnesota. The presentation provided guidance and case law updates on topics including DWI enforcement, endangerment, distracted driving, evidentiary issues, report writing, and more. Attendees walked away with clear tips and guidance on these important issues that they can use in the field.
Materials
Session 34: Data Without the Drama—Making the National Digital Check Form Work for You
Moderator
KaRee Liimataine, Fond du Lac Human Services Division
Speaker
Jasmine Wangen, Northwest CPS Liaison, Safe Kids Grand Forks
Not a fan of forms? You’re not alone. This session broke down the National Digital Check Form (NDCF) in a simple, approachable way with hands-on practice so it doesn’t feel like just one more task. Together, participants explored how consistent use across the state strengthens occupant protection efforts, supports future resources, and helps secure funding.
Approved for 1 CPS CEU credit.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 35: Concerns Regarding Overweight Commercial Motor Vehicles on Minnesota's Roadways
Moderator
Paige Lowery, West Metro Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Speakers
Tom Nelson, University of Minnesota
Paul Robischon, University of Minnesota
This presentation addressed issues related to overweight commercial motor vehicles on Minnesota's roadways. Attendees learned about crash facts, legal weight limits on paved and unpaved roadways, and the road damage caused by overweight commercial vehicles compared to standard automobiles. The session also highlighted the dangers of and types of crashes caused by overweight commercial vehicles, as well as injuries caused by these crashes.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 36: Automated Vehicles: Guiding Policy with Safety in Mind
Moderator
Katy Kressin, West Central Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Speakers
Thomas Johnson-Kaiser, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Micaela Kranz, Minnesota, Department of Transportation
This session invited safety professionals (including law enforcement, emergency response, emergency medical services, and fire) from across Minnesota to share their insights on how automated vehicle (AV) technology can be harnessed to advance the state’s goal of zero traffic deaths. As Minnesota continues developing its AV policies and testing innovative technology, it’s essential that these efforts are informed by those on the front lines of transportation safety. Attendees explored how future policies can best support safe, equitable implementation of AVs—ensuring that emerging technologies serve all communities and contribute meaningfully to reducing fatalities on our roads.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speakers for further information.
Session 37: Growing Positive Traffic Safety Culture—Changing Beliefs to Support Safer Traffic Safety Behaviors
Moderator
Scot Edgeworth, East Metro Minnesota TZD Regional Coordinator
Speaker
Bridget Hanson, Montana State University Center for Health & Safety Culture
Risky behaviors are influenced by traffic safety culture—the shared beliefs of a group of people that influence traffic safety. This presentation explored methods for changing beliefs and, in turn, improving traffic safety culture. It highlighted two recent projects sponsored by the Traffic Safety Culture Pooled Fund: “Resources and Tools to Reduce Multiple-Risky Driving Behaviors” and “Resources and Tools to Improve Pedestrian Safety.” These projects provided real-world examples of how changing beliefs can lead to safer behaviors.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 38: First Responder Safety Around Electrical Lines and Equipment
Moderator
Matt Simpson, Office of EMS
Speaker
Anthony Lenz, Minnesota Rural Electric Association
First Responder Safety around Electrical Lines and Equipment is a specialized training program designed to educate first responders on the hazards associated with electrical infrastructure. This program covered how to identify and respond to downed power lines, damaged equipment, and electrical contact incidents while ensuring personal safety and protecting the public. Components included video demonstrations, situational awareness training, and proper communication protocols with utility companies. The goal is to equip first responders with the knowledge and confidence to handle electrical emergencies safely and effectively.
Materials
Presentation slides are not available for this session. Please reach out to the speaker for further information.
Session 39: Beyond the Report—How Your Crash Data Drives Safer Roads
Moderator
Nicole Bitzan, SRF Consulting Group
Speakers
Loren Hill, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Nichole Morris, University of Minnesota
Max Moreland, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Nathan Drews, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Officer Luke Nelson, City of Eagan Police Department
Crash reports are more than paperwork—they’re powerful tools that shape safer roads and save lives. This session was designed specifically for law enforcement professionals to highlight why accurate and timely crash reporting matters. Attendees learned how your reports are used by safety analysts, engineers, and transportation planners to identify high-risk areas, design better infrastructure, and prioritize safety funding. Participants also heard from researchers working on cutting-edge methods to streamline crash analysis and reporting—making the process faster and more efficient than ever.
Materials
Session 40: What You Need to Know About Ignition Interlock—Law Enforcement, Probation, Driver’s License, and Legislation
Moderator
Nick White, Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Speakers
Heather Kussatz, Arrowhead Regional Corrections
Heather Lopez, Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Bill Lemons, Minnesota County Attorney’s Association and Minnesota Department of Public Safety
In this session, attendees learned what law enforcement should be looking for when stopping a driver with ignition interlock installed, such as how to check for circumvention at roadside, how probation handles positive alcohol testing violations and how this is reported to DVS, how DVS handles ignition interlock violations, and how new legislation impacts ignition interlock.
Materials
Day 2 Closing Plenary
Plenary: Why We Do What We Do—Protecting Lives, Inspiring Change
Moderator
Colonel Christina Bogojevic, Minnesota State Patrol
Speaker
Colonel Matt Langer
Colonel Matt Langer (retired), former chief of the Minnesota State Patrol, will reflect on the mission at the heart of traffic safety—saving lives. Drawing from decades of service, he will share insights into the issues that continue to claim lives on our roads. Langer will also offer a personal perspective on why the work of traffic safety professionals matters more than ever. This keynote will deliver both insight and inspiration, calling on all of us to stay committed to protecting lives on our roads.