Public Works Podcast

Joseph Blackman welcomed Elia Twigg, CEO of Lantic Solutions, to the public works podcast to discuss Elia Twigg's civil engineering career, ranging from discovering the field in 11th grade and joining UF's "step-up program," to progressing through city roles to become the Public Works Director, and eventually founding Lantic Solutions in 2022. Elia Twigg detailed their experience as a Jennings Randolph Scholarship recipient in 2013, focusing on a study tour in Australia to learn how public works are promoted and public awareness is increased, which led to implementing ideas like water stations and promotional materials based on those used by the Manley town and Waverly Council. Elia Twigg encouraged others to apply for the scholarship and mentioned their ongoing commitment to joining the APWA international committee to foster global collaboration.

Joseph Blackman and Max Herzog discussed the Cleveland Water Alliance (CWA), a nonprofit economic development organization focused on supporting water technology innovation in Ohio and the Great Lakes region. Max Herzog, Deputy Director of Programs and Partnerships at CWA, explained that the organization helps innovators and institutional stakeholders by acting as a market connector and validator, facilitating technology trials to de-risk adoption in the risk-averse municipal water sector, and addressing the "innovator's dilemma" by ensuring solutions meet end-user needs. Max Herzog highlighted CWA's work in nutrient mitigation for agriculture and the piloting of a hypochlorite generation system for a drinking water utility, acknowledging that global tariffs and political climates pose challenges to sourcing international innovation. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.Find more at: http://clevelandwateralliance.org/

Joseph Blackman interviewed Aaron Kirkland, the Superintendent of Green Storm Water Operations at the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD), to discuss the department's "Green Cities Clean Waters" initiative, which aims to reduce combined sewer overflows using green storm water infrastructure (GSI) like rain gardens. Aaron Kirkland explained that GSI uses Storm Water Management Practices (SMPPs) to slow and infiltrate rainwater, detailing their unit's responsibility for maintaining this infrastructure and their focus on talent development through the Community Apprenticeship Program, which recruits and trains individuals for entry-level positions. Aaron Kirkland shared their personal career journey and leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, transparency with management about capacity, and motivating teams through quantifiable metrics and positive competition. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Joseph Blackman introduced Erinn DeJonge, the Fleet Business Operations Manager at Sarasota County, who manages over 1,700 assets with an annual budget that includes about $12 million for acquisitions and $3-5 million for fuel, while clarifying that a separate manager oversees the 40 technicians across three maintenance shops. Erinn DeJonge detailed their role in acquisition, fuel site management, and budgeting, explaining the reliance on cooperative contracts, Board of County Commissioners' approval, and direct engagement with operators to ensure equipment minimizes downtime and aligns with user needs, while also sharing their use of AI for structural improvements in memos and contract writing. Erinn DeJonge emphasized the importance of continuous learning through certifications like CAFM and professional networking, along with developing self-starter skills and critical thinking to manage long lead times and address fleet funding challenges with department-specific data transparency. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Joseph Blackman welcomed Ron Romero, the assistant director of Austin Resource Recovery, to the podcast where Ron Romero described their operational role leading 250 employees responsible for all curbside services and the complexity of solid waste management, emphasizing the need for adaptability due to dynamic variables like weather. Ron Romero discussed the positive community feedback on the transition to an on-demand bulk pickup system, the importance of inter-departmental collaboration for litter abatement, and how Austin Resource Recovery has evolved into a 24/7 department utilizing technology to work smarter and increase efficiency. Key talking points included Ron Romero's career path influenced by mentors Vidal Maldonado and Sam Angori, the focus on recruitment to attract younger generations to solid waste careers, and the department's continuous efforts to improve operations, including applying lessons from a winter storm to enhance safety protocols. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Joseph Blackman interviewed Paul Cornejo, the operations manager at AOS Utility Services, about his role, career path, and the state of the public works industry. Paul Cornejo detailed his multiple responsibilities at AOS Utility Services, which include consulting, contract operations, and drone inspections, and emphasized the need for small companies to network and attend conferences to keep up with industry regulations like the AWQS sampling requirements. The discussion covered Paul Cornejo's advice for young professionals to dedicate time daily to studying for self-development, the importance of strong communication and troubleshooting skills for operations managers, and the different approaches needed when communicating with regulators versus students. Paul Cornejo shared a professional success story at Epcor Water where they received the President's award for repurposing a pre-aeration basin to meet Class A+ water requirements, and stressed the importance of appreciating employees to aid retention. The interview concluded with talking points on the public misconception of wastewater treatment, the necessity of direct potable water reuse, the need to introduce the industry to young people to address the "silver tsunami effect," and Paul Cornejo's advice for managers to lead by the Golden Rule. Give the show a listen and remember to thank you local Public Works Professionals.

Joseph Blackman hosted a Veterans Day Public Works podcast with Navy veterans Blake Murphey, President at American Pipeline Solutions, and Chad Oxton, Operations Manager for the city of Suffolk in Virginia, to discuss the value and opportunities for veterans in both the private and public sectors of public works. The participants explored their individual paths to military service, the positive impact of service on socioeconomic standing, and the shared importance of hiring veterans for their adaptability, maintenance skills, and commitment to service, with Blake Murphey noting that over half of American Pipeline Solutions' employees are veterans or military spouses and Chad Oxton emphasizing that many former enlisted roles align perfectly with public works. A key challenge discussed was helping veterans translate their military experience into civilian jargon, while Blake Murphey recommended the SkillBridge program for veteran recruitment and Chad Oxton suggested expanding the military's concept of "mission" to better transition service members into local community partnerships.

Richard Heath Hyle, the new Sewer Collection Superintendent at the City of San Bernardino Municipal Water Department, who was recently promoted after serving as the sewer collection supervisor. Richard Heath Hyle explained that sewer collections transport waste through underground pipelines, and the San Bernardino system serves over 200,000 people with 500 miles of pipe and 10 lift stations. Richard Heath Hyle shared that his team of nine crew members manages the system with four trucks and a CCTV van, emphasizing the importance of drive, self-motivation, and strong interpersonal skills for a superintendent. The key discussion points included Richard Heath Hyle's career transition from water to wastewater, the value of trades, challenges in hiring and retaining talent, innovative training methods like a mock maintenance hole for spill response, and the need for continuous improvement and inter-departmental collaboration. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Joseph Blackman introduced Cristel Sias, who discussed the Public Works Experience, a learning center and museum in Baltimore dedicated to public works and infrastructure, located within an active pumping station. Cristel explained that the museum features exhibits like "Streetscape" and partners with organizations like the Waterfront Partnership, known for Mr. Trash Wheel, to host community events and raise awareness. The Public Works Experience plans a capital campaign to expand, aiming for self-sustainability and encouraging public engagement through social media and upcoming events, including a monument to fallen public works heroes during an upcoming APWA expo. Find more about the Public Works Experience here: https://pwexperience.org/

Bridget McGinnis, the Assistant Engineer at the City of West Sacramento, who shared insights into her role, emphasizing the importance of communication and internships for career development. Bridget McGinnis also discussed the impact of West Sacramento hosting the A's baseball team, her career path in engineering, and the value of professional development through organizations like APWA. Key takeaways included the recommendation to promote "West Sac Connect" for community engagement and Bridget McGinnis gratitude towards her mentors, Elizabeth Raynal, Christopher Heylin, and Sam Tuttle. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Alleigh Weems, Senior Management Analyst at the city of Topeka, described her role supporting the public works department, focusing on procurement, capital improvement, and successful grant acquisition, including a nearly $5 million Safe Streets and Roads for All grant and a $25 million RAISE grant. She emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, professional networking, and stepping outside one's comfort zone for growth, despite challenges like federal funding freezes. Weems shared that a "win" is receiving a simple "thank you" for helping colleagues and that her community involvement enhances her public service. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Linnea Rader, Director of Finance and Human Resources at Van Buren County Road Commission, who shared insights into her varied role encompassing financial management and human resources, including union negotiations and recruitment strategies. Linnea Rader discussed Michigan's unique road commission structure, her career progression, and key skill sets for her role, emphasizing the human element in HR and continuous learning. She also detailed the Michigan Public Service Institute (MPSI) leadership program and her personal initiative, "Lead with Lana," both focused on soft skills and leadership development. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Sherri McMahon, the Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Administrator for the Public Works Department of Las Vegas, Nevada. Sherri McMahon explained that her role involves managing environmental programs for the City of Las Vegas, ensuring compliance with state and EPA regulations, and that the city faces unique environmental challenges due to stormwater runoff pollution, over 42 million annual visitors, and air quality concerns. Sherri McMahon highlighted the importance of education over penalties in enforcement, shared her extensive career path, and emphasized communication skills, particularly technical writing and public speaking, as crucial for environmental careers, while also discussing issues with "flushable" wipes and recommending Holsteins for burgers in Las Vegas. Give the episdoe a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Lindsay Hughes, founder of Tappedin Public Relations, who shared expertise on strategic communication for utilities, focusing on building trust and managing crises through transparent and empathetic messaging. Lindsay Hughes detailed strategies for multi-channel communication, tailored messaging, internal preparedness, and the importance of proactive community engagement while maintaining brand neutrality. Lindsay Hughes also highlighted leveraging AI for communication and outlined their agency's process for supporting existing communication teams or establishing foundational elements for organizations without one.

Aaron Bergeson, the Public Works Project Manager for the City of Palm Springs, California, to discuss his role, career path, essential skills for public works, and challenges faced. Aaron Bergeson emphasized patience, continuous education, and effective communication, citing an instance where transparent communication was crucial in overcoming a project delay. Aaron Bergeson, along with Charles Wy, the Deputy Director of Public Works, and Alejandra Gonzalez, the Maintenance Supervisor, who are his primary contacts for addressing issues, are dedicated to maintaining city facilities and addressing the challenge of attracting younger generations to public works.

Joseph Blackman introduced Ray Brown, the Drainage and Wastewater System Maintenance Division Director at Seattle Public Utilities, who shared insights into his division's core responsibilities, including maintaining 2,000 miles of pipe, emergency response, and adapting to climate change. Ray Brown also detailed his career path from construction to public service, emphasizing the importance of systems thinking, continuous learning, and building a supportive work culture. The main talking points focused on Ray Brown's role and responsibilities at Seattle Public Utilities, the division's challenges and adaptations, his career journey and leadership philosophy, and his efforts in workforce development and community engagement. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Always a good time with Jeanne so I came back for more. We chatted on her transition from Public to Private, what her new role is with  @noxgroup-us  and also the state of the Water industry in Arizona. Give the show a listen and keep an ear out for what Nox Group is doing to humanize thos in our beloved construction industry.

Joseph Blackman introduced Victor Vasquez, the Water Quality Specialist for the City of Morgan Hill, who discussed his broad role covering water quality, sampling, and compliance within the city's growing water distribution system, which includes 16 wells and 13 reservoirs. Victor Vasquez shared his career progression in the water industry, emphasizing continuous learning, adaptability, and the importance of public works careers. He also provided advice on home water filters, cautioning against whole-house carbon filters, and stressed the significance of personal health and well-being. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Joseph Blackman introduced Randy Pitz, who discussed CPWA board term changes, the Manitoba chapter's membership challenges and initiatives, and strategies for engaging members and public works operators. Randy Pitz also detailed his national board activities, career path, and the importance of public perception and mentorship in the public works sector. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Joseph Blackman introduced Joshua Mair, Director of Public Works for Converse, Texas, who shared insights into his department's structure, daily operations, and unique challenges like managing moving subgrades and bulk waste collection. Joshua Mair emphasized the importance of communication, continuous improvement through networking, and fostering employee satisfaction for talent retention, highlighting his non-traditional career path and the value of associations like APWA for professional development. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Joseph Blackman welcomed Lily Lopez, the External Affairs and Sustainability Director for Walnut Valley Water District, to the Public Works Podcast, where Lily Lopez detailed her extensive role, emphasizing community outreach, legislative affairs, and internal communications, while also highlighting the success of their high school internship program in attracting young talent to the water industry. Lily Lopez and Joseph Blackman discussed the critical importance of public relations and storytelling for government entities to proactively manage their narratives and build public trust. Key talking points included effective community outreach strategies, diligent legislative tracking, comprehensive internal communication efforts, and the professional challenges and personal growth Lily Lopez experienced in her career path. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Joseph Blackman welcomed Sheree Hernandez to the Public Works Podcast, where Sheree Hernandez shared her journey from EMT to CDLA truck driver and mechanic at Moulten Niguel Water District. Sheree Hernandez detailed the challenges and experiences gained in truck driving, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean record and continuous learning through certifications and classes. The discussion covered advice for women entering blue-collar industries, the transition to a mechanic role, and prioritizing safety and self-care in demanding professions. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Jason Zumwalt, an engineering technician for the City of Egan's utilities, detailed their role in coordinating capital improvement projects, managing cross-connection programs, and assisting administrative operations, emphasizing the shift from field to office work for a more consistent schedule and reduced physical toll. Jason highlighted adaptability, critical thinking, and communication as essential skills for an engineering technician, while also addressing the public's misconceptions about the administrative side of public works and the challenge of an aging workforce. Jason concluded by advising individuals to embrace uncomfortable situations and pursue continuous learning for career advancement. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Mike Wagar, Operations Supervisor at Bay Area Water Treatment Plant, shared insights into the plant's operations, staff responsibilities, and challenges, including the unique 12-hour shift schedule, difficulties in hiring and training, and handling chemical non-compliance. Mike Wagar also detailed his daily responsibilities as a supervisor, emphasizing the importance of patience and people skills, and discussed the plant's continuous improvement efforts, public transparency, and future concerns about water storage. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Daniel shared his career journey and insights on leadership, professional development, and addressing workforce challenges in the water industry. Daniel Parish emphasized the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and involvement in organizations like AWWA to advance careers and build a stronger workforce. The discussion also covered strategies for knowledge transfer through video and AI chatbots like PDUB, and community outreach to attract new talent and promote the water industry's image. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Matthew Junker, the Public Relations Specialist at the Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County, outlined his role in communicating with the public and elected officials, administering the website, monitoring legislation, and volunteering with associations to keep superiors informed. Matthew emphasized the importance of being a lifelong learner, an effective listener, and engaging in proactive outreach, while also highlighting his career progression and the stability of the water industry. Matthew shared successful legislative interventions through the American Water Works Association (AWWA), discussed public trust and communication strategies, and provided advice on information gathering, navigating political landscapes, addressing misconceptions about the water industry, and the importance of continuous investment in infrastructure. Matthew concluded by sharing inspirational advice from mentors and inviting water industry communicators to join a "community of practice" within the AWWA to collaborate and support each other. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Austin is the President of Hunter Crown. We ctalked about his executive search firm focused on the water and wastewater industry, his entrepreneurial journey, and perspectives on hiring practices. Austin Meyermann discussed various aspects of recruiting, including the limitations of job boards, generational differences, challenges with HR software, advice for job seekers and companies, and the importance of networking. Austin Meyermann also touched upon topics like industry conferences, triggers for seeking recruiters, misconceptions about recruiters, and strategies for different career stages entering the water and wastewater sector. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Bradley Northup and Shane Silsby joined Joseph Blackman on the public works podcast to discuss government fleet management, highlighting the importance of fleet modernization strategies driven by data and legislation. Bradley Northup detailed their career path in fleet, the benefits of professional associations, and the specifics of an Acquisitions Fleet Manager role, while Shane Silsby emphasized long-term cost savings and safety improvements from fleet modernization. They also explored the significant challenges and legislative context surrounding the adoption of electric vehicles in public works fleets, underscoring the need for thorough fleet and infrastructure understanding alongside technological solutions like telematics. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Sabrina Sims, the Water Systems Manager for the City of McCall, Idaho, shared insights into her role, which encompasses water treatment, distribution, and a portion of utility billing, all unified under a "productions and operations" team approach. She discussed McCall's unique water usage challenges as a resort town, with dramatic seasonal variations, and the difficulties in staffing due to the community's rapid growth and high cost of living. Sabrina emphasized her passion for water, developed over 20 years in the industry, and detailed her innovative workforce development strategies for McCall, which include increased salaries, advanced technology, and hiring individuals with transferable skills. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Robert French, the Operations Manager for the Capital and Maintenance Division in Elk Grove, who discussed his responsibilities managing capital improvement projects, ADA enhancements, and smaller maintenance tasks, emphasizing their in-house approach to project management and the city's growth. Robert French shared his career path in public works, his move to Elk Grove for long-term maintenance planning, and his insights on effective operations management, including staff development, project planning, and community communication. Robert French highlighted the complexities of public works beyond immediate fixes and offered recommendations for dining in Elk Grove. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Jeff Taylor, SCADA System Supervisor for the City of Riverside's regional water quality control plant, to understand his role, daily responsibilities, and career path. Jeff Taylor described his work as maintaining the automation system of the wastewater plant, which includes servers, PLCs, communication infrastructure, and various devices, with a 50/50 split between office and field work. He also shared insights on essential skills, a major system outage experience, continuous upskilling, leadership, and cybersecurity in the SCADA field. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Shane stops by and updates us on all-things Legislation.

Jamie is Salisbury's Director of Public Works, who detailed the town's seasonal population fluctuations and the DPW's responsibilities across water, sewer, highway, and beach departments, including summer preparations for increased visitors and maintaining beach area infrastructure. Jamie also shared his career journey in municipal government, essential skills for public works directors, his focus on continuous improvement through technology and team building, and addressed common misconceptions about public works while highlighting the importance of community safety regarding DPW crews. Jamie Tuccolo expressed gratitude for mentors and offered advice to fellow DPW leaders. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Chris is the Sewer Condition Assessment Section Manager at WSSC Water and we chat about his role as the sewer condition assessment section manager, the scope and condition of WSSC Water's infrastructure, and challenges such as aging infrastructure and workforce knowledge transfer. Chris shared insights into his career path, management philosophy, and addressed misconceptions about his position, emphasizing the importance of proper wastewater disposal and acknowledging mentors for guidance. The discussion covered WSSC Water's service area, Chris Caro's daily tasks, concerns about meeting performance expectations, and strategies for professional development. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Terrell is the Public Works Director for Henrico County, who detailed the county's extensive road system and the department's diverse responsibilities. Terrell discussed his typical workday, the award-winning pedestrian safety outreach program, and the early influences and career path that led him to his current role. Key talking points included the importance of communication for a public works director, lessons learned from past experiences, strategies for continuous learning, and addressing misconceptions about the profession, all while emphasizing community service and mentorship. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Len is a Civil Engineer at Witt O'Briens based in Colorado. Witt O'Briens is a civil engineering firm specializing in disaster recovery, grants management, and funding;  Mr. Wright detailed his expertise developed through academic training, fieldwork responding to various disasters, and collaborations with diverse professionals. He emphasized the importance of adaptability, communication, and mentorship in disaster response, along with the need for knowledge preservation and work-life balance. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Hamed is the CTO and Co-Founder of Tiger Eye Engineering. In this episdoe we discussed the company's AI-powered road condition assessment services and client-focused approach.  Hamed highlighted Tiger Eye's success in providing accurate, cost-effective solutions for smaller municipalities and partnerships with consulting firms, emphasizing the importance of addressing road deterioration early. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Profesionals.For more: https://www.tigereye-eng.com/

Tanya Nash is the Director of Engineering at Asphalt Testing Solutions and Engineering. In this episode we discuss her diverse role, career path, and insights into the asphalt industry, including misconceptions, key skills, and future challenges like the "silver tsunami."  Tanya emphasized the importance of collaboration, clear communication, and continuous professional development, advocating for a broader recognition of Asphalt Testing Solutions and Engineering's expertise beyond third-party testing. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.For more: http://www.asphalttesting.info/

John Masley and I discussed VAC-CON's new social media strategy, focusing on micro-influencer sales reps creating authentic content to increase brand awareness and educate potential clients within the construction industry. This strategy prioritizes consistent posting across platforms like TikTok, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, even with minimal equipment, to bridge the knowledge gap and build trust. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.For more from John: https://linktr.ee/vacconjohn

Kenna Hubai, Business Services Manager for Charlotte County Public Works, covering her diverse role encompassing administrative functions, cemetery management, community redevelopment, and staff development.  Kenna detailed daily responsibilities, coastal challenges, collaborative efforts with Karly and her director, and strategies for improving employee training, communication, and overall workplace culture, including implementing a career pathing program. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

John Crisman of Moleaer Nanobubble Technology presented on their nanobubble wastewater treatment technology, highlighting its unique approach to improving separation and biological processes compared to traditional aeration methods. The discussion covered the technology's application in addressing common plant issues, attracting and retaining industry talent, and the importance of collaboration with industrial users and within the field itself; Molair offers scalable solutions for plants of all sizes seeking greater efficiency and chemical reduction.For more: Moleaer.com

Tom Wachholder, Public Works Director for Wenatchee, Washington, who discussed his daily routine, prioritizing methods, and the complexities of the $335 million Confluence Parkway project.  Key themes included the importance of strong internal and external relationships, proactive risk mitigation, and continuous improvement through leadership coaching and team feedback.  Next steps include exploring apprenticeship programs and adjusting prerequisites to address the aging workforce, and developing a community awareness campaign. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Devin Page, Wastewater Maintenance Coordinator at Clackamas County Water and Environment Services, detailed their diverse career path, daily responsibilities (including preventative maintenance and project management), and the crucial skills needed for success in wastewater maintenance, emphasizing problem-solving and hands-on abilities.  Paige highlighted the importance of transferable skills, continuous learning (through online resources and industry connections), and dispelling misconceptions about the profession. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Jorge L. Morales, Director of the Austin Watershed Protection Department, covering the department's stormwater management in Austin, including its unique geography and separate storm sewer system. Key challenges discussed included securing funding for projects,  preparing for future storms, and effectively communicating with the public during crises. Mr. Morales advised new watershed managers to understand local contexts, build relationships, and prioritize community engagement and continuous learning. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Amir Cahn, CEO of SWAN Forum, presented Swan's mission to accelerate global smart water innovation through a utility-driven, collaborative approach, emphasizing the importance of human factors and addressing legacy companies' adaptation to technological advancements. We talked about action versus discussion, prompting Cahn to highlight the need for regional context and stakeholder trust. Swan plans to expand its reach, potentially incorporating a dedicated academy for e-learning and upskilling. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.For more: http://www.swan-forum.com/

Marsha Anderson Bomar, a strategic transportation advisor for GHD and president-elect of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), shared her 50-year career journey, encompassing experiences in both the public and private sectors, entrepreneurship (Street Smarts and Data Smarts), and extensive leadership roles. Her presentation highlighted the importance of mentorship, effective communication, continuous learning, and addressing the engineering workforce shortage through initiatives like modernizing engineering curricula.

Danielle is the Owner of Upskilled Consulting and in the episode we discussed the skilled trades labor shortage, emphasizing effective onboarding (30-60-90 day plans, ride-alongs), mentorship, and blended (in-person and virtual) training strategies to address it. We highlighted the need for measuring training ROI through metrics like video views and skill acquisition, building internal video libraries, and utilizing exit interviews and succession planning for knowledge retention and proactive talent development. Give the episdoe and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionasl.For more: http://www.upskilledconsulting.com/

Mike McNutt: Public Affairs and Communications Manager at Las Virgenes Municipal Water District in California. In this episode he detailed his multifaceted role encompassing media relations, crisis communication, and community engagement, highlighting the challenges of building public trust amidst declining confidence in government and misinformation.  He discussed strategies for effective communication during crises (wildfires, active shooter situations, the pandemic) and emphasized the importance of clear, concise messaging tailored to diverse community demographics and the unique challenges of communicating about water resources during emergencies. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Ernest is A Senior Executive Recruiter at the City of Seattle, Seattle Public Utilities in Washington. In this episode we discussed the challenges and strategies of recruiting for executive-level positions within Seattle Public Utilities, highlighting the importance of aligning candidates with the organization's mission and addressing ageism and other biases in the process. We explored strategies for attracting and retaining talent, including outreach to diverse groups and leveraging existing employees' institutional knowledge, along with the impact of salary transparency and crafting engaging job descriptions. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Keeli is the Water Policy Program Manager at Seminole County Government in Florida. In this episode we discussed her role in developing holistic water policies, current projects focusing on stakeholder engagement and internal water audits, and the challenges of limited staffing and funding.  Her career progression, emphasizing communication and collaboration skills honed through diverse experiences, including teaching and land management, was also highlighted, along with the importance of mentorship and proactive issue resolution. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Adib is the Water & Sewer Utilities Engineer at City of Tukwila in Washington. This episodes chat is regarding Altal's career path, daily responsibilities, and essential skills in the field.  He highlighted the importance of communication, addressing misconceptions about public works, and the challenges of inadequate funding and aging infrastructure. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.