Why Host a Certificate Program?
Is your chapter interested in hosting a program?
Email education@apwa.org to get started.
Certificate Program Host Planning Guide
Hosting a certificate program involves a structured, collaborative process between the chapter/host and APWA Education staff. The following narrative outlines the key steps and actions to ensure a successful event.
1. Initial Coordination (6 months + prior to desired program date(s))
The planning journey begins with an intentional meeting between chapter or host representatives and APWA Education staff. This kickoff conversation sets the foundation by clarifying roles and responsibilities, identifying key contacts (such as the MOU signatory and invoice recipient), and discussing speaker qualifications, marketing strategies, and contingency planning.
2. Securing the Date and Venue (6 months + prior to desired program date(s))
Once the initial details are aligned, the host confirms the venue and selects preliminary program dates. These may be standalone or aligned with a larger conference. The confirmed information is then shared with APWA to move forward.
3. Speaker Confirmation (upon confirmation of venue and event date(s))
With the venue and dates locked in, the next step is to confirm speaker availability. For specific programs, such as the Winter Maintenance Operator and Supervisor Certificates, APWA coordinates speaker arrangements directly.
4. Finalizing the MOU (upon confirmation of speakers, venue, and event date(s))
After confirming the event logistics and speakers, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is sent to the host for signature. Once fully executed, both parties retain a copy, formalizing the partnership.
5. Speaker Logistics (any time after MOU is finalized)
In the weeks following MOU execution, the host coordinates speaker travel and lodging arrangements as needed to ensure smooth participation.
6. Registration and Materials (any time after MOU is finalized)
At least three months before the event, registration opens. The host assigns an administrative team to manage registration and track participants. APWA provides access to all necessary program materials, including presentations, handouts, tests, and certificate templates.
7. Event Preparation (day before the scheduled program date)
The day before the event, the host prepares the venue. This includes setting up classroom-style seating, testing A/V equipment, and ensuring internet access is functional.
8. Delivering the Program (day of the program)
On event day(s), facilitators provide printed or digital participant guides, deliver the program content, take attendance, administer the test, and collect participant feedback.
9. Certificate Distribution (after program delivery)
Certificates are distributed to participants who achieve a passing score of 80% or higher. This can occur on the day of the event or within five days afterward.
10. Post-Event Wrap-Up (after program delivery)
Within 30 days of the event, the host submits attendance records, test scores, and participant feedback to APWA. Any remaining documentation is also completed during this phase.
Available Certificate Programs
Public Fleet Management Certificate
The Public Fleet Management Certificate program will provide an overview of the many skills and areas of knowledge fleet managers need to be successful, including organizational structures, communication, procurement, purchasing, finance, and fleet operations.
Winter Maintenance Operator Certificate
This four-hour workshop provides a well-rounded overview of snow and ice control for those behind the wheel during snow operations. Participants receive a certificate of completion following the program. The program concentrates on the following areas, from an operator’s perspective:
- Materials
- Equipment Operations
- Snow and Ice Control Operations
Facilities and Grounds Management Certificate
The Facilities and Grounds Management Certificate program will cover the basic need-to-know topics that professionals in the facilities and grounds disciplines need to understand to perform their jobs effectively and proficiently. The program provides training and real-life case studies in the areas of ADA compliance, grounds maintenance, preventative maintenance, capital improvement planning, and more.
Winter Maintenance Supervisor Certificate
The Winter Maintenance Supervisor Certificate Program, one of APWA’s most popular programs, is targeted towards forepersons, supervisors, and managers of winter maintenance operations. This certificate program helps those in charge of winter operations understand all facets of developing and maintaining an effective winter maintenance program, resulting in more effective, efficient, equitable, and environmentally friendly snow and ice control.
FAQs
Certificate vs Certification
Certificate programs are often confused with certification. The chart below shows the difference between these two offerings.
| Aspect | Certification | Certificate |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Assessing current knowledge and skills—usually broad in scope | Educating individuals to achieve specific knowledge and skills (usually focused in scope) and assessing attainment of them |
| Components |
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| Attributes |
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