The 2026 recipient of the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Australia Woman of the Year Award, has been announced.
Distinguished Professor Fang Chen, an internationally acclaimed leader in intelligent transport systems and data science, has received the award.
A trailblazer in the application of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and machine learning to real-world transport challenges, Professor Chen has fundamentally transformed the landscape of ITS in Australia. Her collaborative and impact-driven approach has delivered solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability across the nation’s transport networks.
Professor Chen currently serves as Executive Director of the Data Science Institute at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), where she leads multidisciplinary teams developing transformative digital solutions for the transport, energy, and infrastructure sectors. Her leadership has positioned Australia at the global forefront of ITS innovation through data-driven research and industry collaboration.
Transformative contributions to the ITS sector
Throughout her career, Professor Chen has delivered pioneering research with substantial social and economic outcomes, including:
Revolutionary rail network performance modelling
In partnership with Sydney Trains, Professor Chen and her team developed the world’s leading comprehensive, data-driven model for evaluating train timetable robustness.
This system applies advanced machine learning to assess, predict, and optimise operational performance across entire rail networks in real time. The technology has since been adapted for Victorian train operations, improving efficiency across more than 4,000 kilometres of rail and millions weekly passenger journeys.
Advanced Disruption Forecasting for Regional Networks
Working with V/Line Victoria, Professor Chen’s team created an integrated analytics platform that combines GPS-based route visualisation, predictive performance forecasting, and resource optimisation. This system enables operators to anticipate service interruptions, optimise response strategies, and enhance resilience for regional rail communities.
Pioneering Transport-Energy Integration for Electric Vehicle Futures
In collaboration with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), Professor Chen and the team developed ground-breaking modelling that unites transport modelling and energy systems. The research demonstrates how electric vehicle adoption patterns affect grid demand and road congestion – providing essential insights to guide infrastructure planning and policy for Australia’s transition to a sustainable transport future.
Recognition and industry leadership
Professor Chen’s outstanding contributions have earned her and her teams multiple national honours, including four ITS Australia National Awards for Advanced Data Analytics in Transport and, most recently, the 2025 ITS Australia Award for Data Excellence in Transport.
In 2021, she was appointed to the ITS Australia Board, contributing her expertise to the organisation’s mission of advancing intelligent mobility nationwide.
ITS Australia CEO, Susan Harris, praised Professor Chen’s impact and leadership.
“Distinguished Professor Chen is an extraordinary innovator whose research and real-world applications have redefined what’s possible in Australia’s transport technology landscape,” Harris said.
“Her ability to bridge academia and industry has delivered tangible benefits for commuters, operators, and policymakers alike. She is an exemplary recipient of the ITS Australia Woman of the Year Award.”
Professor Chen, said she was truly honoured to receive the 2026 ITS Australia Woman of the Year Award.
“This recognition celebrates the collective effort of our research, industry and government partners working together to make transport smarter, safer, and more sustainable through data-driven innovation.”
Celebrating women in transport innovation
The ITS Australia Woman of the Year Award, celebrates and elevates the growing impact of women shaping Australia’s intelligent transport future.
Professor Chen will be formally recognised at the 16th ITS Australia Awards, to be held at The Sofitel Melbourne on Thursday, 12 February 2026.
For more information about the ITS Australia Awards, visit: https://its-australia.com.au/events/16th-its-australia-awards
