The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting the 34th “Today’s Challenge, Tomorrow’s Reward” conference Feb. 26 and 27 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. Sponsored by IDOT’s Office of Business and Workforce Diversity, the conference provides minority- and women-owned businesses with opportunities to make connections and develop skills to grow and succeed. Conference topics include regulatory updates, funding opportunities, “getting paid” and jobsite safety. Industry leaders and IDOT staff also will be leading sessions on how to bid on, participate in and deliver projects. The event is attended by subcontractors and prime contractors in construction, trucking, engineering and other consulting services. The conference will be held in person and is free to attend. The conference will conclude with a keynote address and award presentation on Feb. 27. Walk ins are welcome. Visit https://idot.click/TCTR-25 for registration information and other details.