Public Works Podcast

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.

Stephen Sanders is the Head Trainer at The Environmental Training Center at Morrisville State, Morrisville NY. In this episode we discussed challenges in the water industry, including workforce aging, recruitment difficulties, and negative public perception. We explored solutions such as simplifying certification processes, improving community relations through clear communication, and emphasizing the industry's positive community impact. Next steps include implementing improved recruitment and training strategies, focusing on community relations rather than solely public relations. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Jordan is the Environmental Specialist II | Wastewater & Water Community North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality in Charlotte North Carolina. In this episode she detailed her career path, emphasizing the importance of internships and entry-level positions, and shared experiences highlighting accountability and regulatory work.  We discussed professional development strategies, the need for better knowledge transfer between generations in the environmental field, and concerns about AI's environmental impact. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Matthew is the Co-Founder/CEO PSD Citywide Inc. In this episode we chat about how PSD CityWide came to fruition and what it has evolved into over the years. We cover topics like software vs hardware and also how a company can get traction with municipalities. We also discuss how one can stay fit during the rigourous travel schedule of a high-performing CEO. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.For more: http://psdcitywide.com/

Dustin is the Streets Operations Manager at the City of Sioux Falls in South Dakota. In this episode we dive into show removal, finding and keeping talent, how to keep talent busy in extreme weather and more. We also dive into his career path and how he got into the public sector. We talk about the ups and downs of his career and what has made him who he is today. His billboard would simply read: "Be Patient." Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Jamel is the Water Treatment Plant Operator at Bargersvilles North Water Plant in Indiana. In this episode we chat about how he made his way into Water Treatment and all the skills he picked up on the way. We also dive into Apprenticeship and what it can look like for aspiring operators. We also covered topics like Faith, the ability to learn and misconceptions. Jamel wants us all to "Be a river not a resevior." Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Caroline is the Capacity, Management, Operations and Maintenance (CMOM) Section Manager at Seattle Public Utilities at the City of Seattle in Washington State. In this episode we chat about all of the different tasks she is over any given day. We also chat about her career path and the leaps she has made in her career. Her Billboard statement would read: "Be mindful and respectful of operations crews". Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Shahad is the Assistant Director of Public Works, Transportation, & Capital Development at the City of Duncanville in Texas. In this episode we chat about how she chose her career despite societal and familial expectations. The 3 skillsets Shahad recommends one possess for success are: Problem solving, communication and patience. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Natalie Galgano is the Senior Manager at Municipal Accounts & Consulting in Arizona. In this episode we chat about what problems she solves at MAC and what the common issues special districts have in regards to Accounting. We also chat about regulations and the struggle of keeping clients informed on State and Federal changes. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.For more about Natalie: https://municipalaccounts.com/

Mark is the Operations and Maintenance Manager at West County Wastewater District in Richmond California. In this episode we talk about Mark's career in Wastewater and the route he took to get to where he currently is. We talk about WCWD's area of service and how it was decied. Mark wants us to know that its ok to "specialize" and also the concept of "Toilet to Tap." Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Travis Fisher is the Wastewater Collections Supervisor at The City of Simi Valley in California. In this episdoe we chat about betting on oneself and having grit as a skillset in this industry. We also cover topics like CWEA and adopting new technologies as a Supervisor. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professional.

Travis Walbeck is the Assistant Director for Training and Outreach for NCAT located at Auburn University. In this episode we talk about what NCAT is and what thier mission is about. We talk about the state of the Asphalt industry and where is may be going. We alse cover topics like Research, Testing and Training. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. For more info go to: https://eng.auburn.edu/research/centers/ncat/about/index.html

Phillip Brown: Water/Wastewater/Stormwater Superintendent at The City of Jacksonville Beach in Florida. In this episode we chat about his love for travel and where he would see himself operating overseas. Also we cover topics like Legislation and Rulemaking in the water field. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Rob Pluta is the Sewer Foreman at City of Highland Park, Illinois. In this episode Rob and I chat about how he handles generational differences within his department and also how they find new talent in the industry. We also cover topics like Being Patient and Seeking Feedback. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professinals.

Margeret is the Chief Public Works Officer for City and County of Denver Deputy Manager For Department of Transportation and Infrastructure at City and County of Denver. In this episdoe we chat about her career path and how she became Chief Public Works Officer with 12,000 employees. We also chat about APWA and its Emerging Leaders Academy. Margaret wants us all to "Get involved and Communicate." Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Paul is the Host of The Water Entrepreneur Podcast. In this episode we chat about entrepreneurship and more specifically water entrepreneurship. Paul give his insights on startups and how to navigate the murky waters of building a business in this industry. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works ProfessionaslFind more at: https://thewaterentrepreneur.org/

Robert is the Water Quality Superintendent at the City of South Burlington in Vermont. In this episode we go in depth on One Water, Associations and his breadth and depth of expertise in the industry. We also chat about what it takes to go from East Coast to the West Coast and back to the East Coast while progressing in his career. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals

Carol Shrock and Sara Carroll hop on the Public Works Podcast to share what AZ Special District Alliance is about and what we look to gain by joining.ASDA works to the fulfill its mission by offering educational opportunities and other resources on best practices for good governance; enhanced connection with governing counterparts at the county, state, and federal levels; more education pool resources for professional services; and enhance the understanding of the general public as well as state and federal legislatures on the importance of Arizona's special districts in communities across the state.https://www.azdistrictsalliance.org/

Joseph is the Former Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Finance & Budget, Office of the Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation. In this episode we have Joe tell his story on how he got into the industry and his journey to working for the Biden administration. We also chat about all of the great things he accomplised while in office. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Cesar Garcia is the Former City Manager of La Marque, Current City Administrator of Kemah TX. In this episode we chat about his career path that led him City Manager. We also cover topics like Vision 2050 and what it mean for La Marque. He also state that "Lack of fear" needs to be prevalant in a City Manager to be successful. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Diane Sheesley is the Director of South Sound Operations at Perteet in Olympia Washington. In this episode we chat about her career between Public and Private organizations and how politics can play a role in each. She also talks about how being versatile is one of the main skillsets to have in a position like hers. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professional.

Brittany is the Senior HR Generalist: Risk Management + Workforce Development at the City of Minot in Minot North Dakota. In this episode we cover Recruiting and some bes tpractices to find new talent. We also cover interview-prep and how to position yourself as an interviewee. Her Billboard would state: "Your Public Works workers WANT to make you Happy." Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

What does the incoming Trump Administration mean for you?For More info on Shane Silsby: http://www.silsby-sa.com/For more info on writing your Congressional Member: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member

Brittany is the Public Works Director at City of Winter Haven in Florida. In this episode we talk about the City of Winter Havens growth and what it means for Brittany's team. We also chat about her career path and how "Saying Yes" has led her to new heights. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Kyle is the Operations Support Team Manager at the City of Portland in Oregon. In this episdoe we chat about what his role entails and how he supports the Operations staff. We also chat about how to handle Turnover and what Demographics the current talent pool is made of. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. 

Christine is the Laboratory Analyst at Benton Washington Regional Public Water Authority in Arkansas. In this episode we chat about what she does in her role and how it is heavy on Operations Support. We also cover topics like her affinity for analyzing water and how her career is forming through volunteerism. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.Enjoyed the show? Support by buying me a Burger here: buymeacoffee.com/josephblackman

Jerrold is the Organizational Development Consultant at the City of Phoenix in Arizona. In this episode we chat about his career path and how he went from broadcasting to consulting. We also talked about how one can excel at being an Internal Org Dev Consultant and the difference from being an outside consultant. Also we discuss all the good things that the NFBPA is doing and how to support. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.Enjoyed the show? Support by buying me a Burger here: buymeacoffee.com/josephblackman

Sheldon was a former WWTP Supervisor and morphed into a Safety Consultant. In this episode we chat about how he got into his career and his current lifestyle of living abroad. Sheldon is a believer in Soft Skills and credits his diverse career path to his success in Self-Employment. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. Enjoyed the show? Support by buying me a Burger here: buymeacoffee.com/josephblackmanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/public-works-podcast--3064636/support.

James is the CEO of Pavement Management Group. In this episdoe we chat about his path into the industry and how he has grown his company over the years into what it is today. We also cover topics like internships and how his company has carved out a niche in the market. James has mastered being authentically himself and operating a passion. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. For more info: http://pavementmanagementgroup.com/Enjoyed the show? Support by buying me a Burger here: buymeacoffee.com/josephblackmanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/public-works-podcast--3064636/support.

Kevin is the DPW Director of Macomb Townhship in Michigan. In this episdoe we chat about how his Township is structured and how it may be unique. We also chat about his knack for Regional Collaboration and how his career path from striping ball-fields in the city to now being the Director. Kevins billboard statement is "Invest in today for a brighter tomorrow." Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals. Enjoyed the show? Support by buying me a Burger here: buymeacoffee.com/josephblackmanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/public-works-podcast--3064636/support.

Jamie is the National Sales Manager with ACARI Engineering Co. In this episdoe we chat about joining his fathers company and all that entails with working with family. We also cover topics like innovation and manufacturing and the direction ACARI is headed in our industry. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.For more info: http://www.acariproducts.com/

Noe Martinez is a Public Works Engineering Manager at the City of Brighton in Colorado. Noe and I chat about his journey into his current position and some of the misconceptions he receives from what he does. Coming from South Central LA and now in Brighton CO, Noe has unique view on working within his communitty. We also cover topics like Speed Bumps and Pickup Lines to meet your wife on the trail. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.