🗓️ 2026 Middle Atlantic Section IMSA Conference
When: March 9 – 13, 2026
Where: Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa at Short Pump, Richmond, Virginia
This is the 21st Annual Regional Conference, now expanded into a full five-day event that combines Certification Classes with networking and technical seminars.
📌 Event Schedule Highlights
Certification Classes & Exams
· Offered on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday (Mar 9-10, 12-13)
- Includes multiple IMSA certification levels such as Signal Technician I/II, Work Zone Safety, Signs & Markings, ITS, and more
- Expect two-day formats, usually starting at 8 a.m. and ending at 5 p.m. daily
- Some certifications require proof of prior IMSA certifications or equivalent, especially for advanced levels
- Registration had a hard deadline of February 15, 2026—no late entries accepted
Seminars & Networking Day
Wednesday, March 11 is focused on review seminars, technical talks, and meet-n-greet sessions
Vendor Exhibition
· Alongside certification tracks, the conference includes vendor exhibits allowing networking with suppliers and manufacturers
Open to all attendees at no extra charge
🏨 Venue Info & Lodging
Location: Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa at Short Pump
Address: 12042 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23233
Accommodation Tip: Use Group Code IMSA26 when booking to access discounted room rates
These rooms can be reserved by contacting the hotel directly at 804-364-3600 and asking for the group code or by booking online
Reservations by individual attendees must be received on or before, 5:00pm EST Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Hotel room rates are subject to 2% TID fee and applicable state and local taxes (currently 14%) or prevailing fees in effect at time of check in.
✅ Why Attend?
Access to on-site IMSA certification exams and prep classes
Earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) through seminars
Engage with regional peers and industry vendors
Stay current with best practices in public safety signal operations
🧭 Registration Notes
Registration is handled via the MASIMSA website. If you are outside of the Middle Atlantic Section, contact me below for instructions how to get member discount.
You must have an IMSA number to register. To verify your number visit www.imsasafety.org
For questions or assistance, you can contact T Chris Elliott —Middle Atlantic Section’s certification chair
Email: [email protected] Phone: 434‑201‑2076
📚 IMSA Traffic Signal Certification Levels
IMSA offers a structured progression of certifications for traffic signal professionals: Click the links to learn more and register.
Traffic Signal Technician I March 9-10
Entry‑level certification covering fundamentals such as signal device terminology, cabinet wiring components, vehicle detection, communications, and basic installation/maintenance.
Prerequisites: At least 1 year of related experience plus IMSA Work Zone Temporary Traffic Control Technician or equivalent.
Program and Exam: $750 Member $800 Nonmember -- Renewal: $425 Member $475 Nonmember
Traffic Signal Field Technician II March 12-13
Builds upon Level I with hands‑on training in troubleshooting, field repairs, programming, preventive maintenance, documentation, and system operation.
Prerequisites: Current Technician I and at least 2 years of field experience.
Program and Exam: $750 Member $800 Nonmember -- Renewal: $425 Member $475 Nonmember
Traffic Signal Construction Technician II
Focuses on installation standards and techniques: signal structure, wiring, conduit, material management, safe equipment use, and testing setups.
Prerequisites: Technician I plus 2 years of operations experience.
Program and Exam: $750 Member $800 Nonmember -- Renewal: $425 Member $475 Nonmember
Traffic Signal Senior Field Technician III
The advanced field certification emphasizing advanced technologies: MUTCD, NEC, NESC, NEMA standards, detection methods (radar, loops, etc.), preemption, grounding, and ITS communications.
Prerequisites: Level II certification and at least 5 years of experience.
Program and Exam: $750 Member $800 Nonmember -- Renewal: $425 Member $475 Nonmember
Traffic Signal Inspector March 9-10
Designed for professionals overseeing signal construction compliance, project management, and correct installation to industry standards.
Prerequisites: Any existing IMSA Traffic Signal certification.
Program and Exam: $750 Member $800 Nonmember -- Renewal: $425 Member $475 Nonmember
Signs & Pavement Markings Technician Level I – March 9-10
Introduces the use of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), sign types, pavement marking materials, visibility, retroreflectivity, work zone safety, liability, equipment maintenance, school zones, bike lanes, and environmental considerations.
Prerequisites: IMSA Work Zone Temporary Traffic Control Technician certification (or equivalent) and 1 year of field experience in signs/markings operations
Program and Exam: $750 Member $800 Nonmember -- Renewal: $425 Member $475 Nonmember
IMSA/FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician March 11-13
Description: The IMSA/FOA Certified Fiber Optic Technician for ITS, traffic signal and communication systems is primarily aimed at installers who need the basic knowledge, skills and abilities to install fiber optic outside plant networks properly. The CFOT is a 3-day hands-on training program that takes the student through the basic terminology and theory of how fiber optics systems work through the splicing and testing of fiber optic systems.
Target Audience: Those who install fiber optic outside plant networks. Network owners, IT personnel, facilities managers, network designers, estimators and technicians involved in the design,
installation and inspection of fiber networks may be interested.
Prerequisites: IMSA online self-study fiber optic course; some experience in the field of fiber optics and communications recommended.
Hours: 24
Program and Exam: $1750 Member $1800 Nonmember
Roadway Lighting Technician Level I – March 9-10
Purpose: Certifies knowledge of lighting terminology, wiring, grounding, fixture operation, safety, illumination principles, and maintenance procedures.
Prerequisites: Must hold IMSA Work Zone Temporary Traffic Control Technician certification (or equivalent) and have at least one year of relevant experience.
Program and Exam: $750 Member $800 Nonmember -- Renewal: $425 Member $475 Nonmember
