Committee News
Michael L. Holder, PE
Chair, APWA Engineering and Construction Committee
The APWA Engineering and Construction Committee supports public works professionals in the planning, design, and construction of public infrastructure. Our committee members represent a range of technical expertise dedicated to producing educational content and materials that enhance our shared industry. Our mission is to encourage sharing and application of knowledge about engineering and construction and to advance these practices in public works, pursuing APWA’s mission to develop and support the people, agencies, and organizations that plan, build, maintain, and improve infrastructure that supports quality of life in our communities.
The engineering and construction sector continues to experience significant paradigm shifts, particularly driven by rapid advancements in technology and digital transformation. Key committee focus areas for 2025 and beyond include:
- Digital Twin Technology
- Sustainable Construction
- Workforce Transformation
- Technology Integration in Public Works
- Resilience and Sustainability in Design and Construction
- Project Delivery and Risk Management
- Regulatory and Funding Advocacy
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Adoption: The committee is excited to host a Click, Listen & Learn on Thursday, July 24, featuring two cases of AI in public works—sewer inspection and pavement assessment. The Click, Listen & Learn will also highlight a partnership between a public works department and a university and how they leverage each other’s resources and research to develop helpful AI tools. The committee was excited to consult with the Technology Committee, which is leading the AI in public works education efforts, on this Click, Listen & Learn. Learn more and register here.
The Engineering and Construction Committee remains committed to supporting APWA members as they navigate emerging challenges and opportunities. Our efforts will continue to focus on advancing innovation, strengthening public infrastructure, and promoting excellence in engineering and construction practices. I invite you to join our knowledge team if you have experience with any of the topics listed above or have insight into new trends affecting the areas of engineering and construction. The committee is always looking for passionate and skilled additions to help us produce high-quality education for public works professionals. Email the Engineering and Construction Committee if you are interested.
Survey: We Want Your Input!
The APWA Engineering and Construction Committee is developing new educational resources to support public works professionals. To make sure we focus on the most relevant topics, we’d love to hear from you.
This short survey has just two questions and takes no more than two minutes to complete. Your feedback will help us prioritize content that reflects your interests and needs in the field.
Thank you for taking a moment to share your perspective!
New Resources
The Green Infrastructure Toolbox is intended to be an overview for individuals new to this area of public works. It includes a section on design and construction standards that is helpful for engineering and construction professionals.
Introducing AI in Public Works Webpage
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how cities operate and serve their residents. This page is designed to introduce public works professionals to the growing world of AI in their field and provide accessible educational resources to help demystify AI.
Trending Resources
How Drones Are Being Used By Public Works to Improve Safety
Learn how public works departments use drones to save time and money and enhance employee safety. The webinar will cover work in sewer and water management, utilities, and infrastructure. You will be provided an overview of public works use cases for drone technology with real-world examples and then look at some novel examples from cities pushing the boundaries of drone use technology to improve safety and savings in their operations.
Reading Construction Plans
This program is designed to help engineers and technicians that are new to the field be able to accurately review construction plans. This includes identifying key symbols, interpreting notes and an explanation of commonly used terms.
Regional Future City Competition
Does your chapter want to participate in a program that helps build connections between K-12 students and engineers and STEM professionals? You can do that by participating in your regional Future City Competition! Future City is a hands-on, cross-curricular educational program that brings STEM to life for students in grades 6-8. Using the Engineering Design Process (EDP) and project management skills, students showcase their solutions to a citywide sustainability issue. This year’s challenge asks students to design a city that eliminates food waste from farm to table and keeps citizens healthy and safe.
APWA announces a special award, Advancing Quality of Life for All Award, every year at the national competition in February. Contact your regional coordinator to find out how to participate in your local Future City Competition!
Certified Public Infrastructure Inspector (CPII)
The purpose of the CPII credential is to promote quality infrastructure throughout the community by advancing the knowledge and practice of construction inspection to benefit the community and public agencies.
The CPII certification program is for those who inspect the construction of public infrastructure, facilities, and other types of construction work and materials to ensure compliance with plans and specifications.
