Committee News
Tracy Warner, PE
Chair, APWA Technology Committee
The APWA Technology Committee is committed to helping public works professionals understand, evaluate, and adopt the tools that are transforming our field. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, GIS, SCADA systems, mobile platforms, sensors, and modern asset management tools are reshaping how communities plan, operate, and maintain critical infrastructure. The committee’s mission is to provide guidance, resources, and educational opportunities that help agencies leverage these tools effectively and responsibly.
At PWX 2025 in Chicago, the committee facilitated collaborative discussions through “Breaking the Tech Bottleneck: Clearing the Path to Public Works Modernization” Solution Hub, bringing together APWA members and partner committees to explore challenges and opportunities related to modernization. The insights gathered from these conversations will help guide the committee’s priorities in the coming years.
One of the committee’s major efforts is the development of a Technology Strategy, a resource designed to help agencies assess their technology needs, understand available options, and plan for successful implementation. This resource will offer common language, practical guidance, and considerations for achieving organization-wide buy-in.
The committee is also expanding APWA’s educational offerings. Later this month, a Click, Listen & Learn Webinar will highlight Salem, Oregon’s approach to building a responsible and responsive drone program. In May, the committee will partner with APWA’s other Integrated Strategy committees to host a Future of Public Works webinar series focused on innovation and being “future ready.”
The committee is developing a Data Center Toolbox to help public works professionals evaluate proposed data center projects in their communities. The toolbox will outline key questions to ask during the review process and provide guidance for understanding potential impacts on infrastructure, services, and community resources. This resource will include input from the Engineering and Construction Committee, Water Resources Management Committee, and Sustainability and Resiliency Committee.
Lastly, the committee will oversee updates to APWA’s Cybersecurity Certificate program, ensuring the content reflects current threats and technology trends and appeals to public works professionals.
If you are interested in supporting the committee’s work or contributing your expertise, please consider joining the Technology Committee Knowledge Team by emailing TECHC@apwa.org.
Live Programs
Building a Responsible and Responsive Public Works Drone Program
Thursday, January 22, 2026
During this Click, Listen & Learn, discover how Salem, Oregon’s Public Works Department successfully launched their drone program. Learn about the different uses of drone data in municipal operations, from infrastructure inspections to emergency response. The webinar will cover how they built a compelling business case and established protocols for data management, security, and staff training.
RaInDROPs Keep Falling on My Head: Embodying Long-Term Flood Resilence
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Managing future flood risks in dynamic weather environments requires forward-thinking technology. This live virtual program will discuss one of these new tools, RaInDROP (Rainfall Intensity, Duration, and Return for Observations and Projections). Participants will hear examples of how municipalities and state agencies are already using RaInDROP data and atmospheric models to strengthen long-term flood resilience.
Transforming the Future of Solid Waste through Intelligent Technologies: AI in Action
Thursday, March 19, 2026
This live virtual program will explore the expanding role of AI within the solid waste industry, highlighting current applications, innovations, and practical strategies for safe and efficient implementation. Participants will gain insights into how various AI systems can work together to improve operational performance, enhance decision-making, and support sustainability goals.
Trending Resources
AI in Public Works (Web Resource)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how cities operate and serve their residents. Learn about the growing world of AI in public works and find resources to help demystify it.
AI Summit—AI in Public Works Presentation Series (offering CEUs)
Public works professionals in various technical areas share information about real-world applications of AI in their fields.
AI Case Studies in Sewer Inspection and Pavement Assessment (Recorded webinar offering CEUs)
This recorded program explores the use of non-generative AI tools in public works through case studies on sewer inspection and pavement assessment.
Artificial Intelligence for Winter Road Maintenance (Recorded webinar offering CEUs)
This session explores how AI is being used in snow and ice control to improve operator safety, roadway conditions, and overall winter response.
