Helena K. Allison is the president of HAB International, a multiple-language translation and interpretation service business. She has worked in California’s public works municipal government sector for over 24 years, serving as an engineer, public works director, and transportation director. Additionally, she has over 20 years in the private sector. In her last employment, she worked as a construction inspector and engineer with a private firm, and she also worked as a consultant for the California Department of Transportation on large public works construction projects for the last six years. She has made numerous presentations to educate and enlighten residents concerning the public works purpose and function, written articles about the profession, developed a “Careers in Public Works” handbook, and presented at universities and high schools on current issues in public works. She is a past president of the Toastmasters International local branch and a member of WTS International (formerly known as the Women’s Transportation Seminar). She has also requested and received proclamations on multiple occasions from the governors of California during APWA National Public Works Week.
Ms. Allison has been active in APWA’s Sacramento Chapter for over three decades, serving as a sustaining member, trustee, and treasurer of the Education Endowment Fund, Chapter Board Member, Chapter President, Chapter Delegate, and served on several committees as member and chair. In 2019, the Sacramento Chapter recognized her with its highest individual honor—the Stan Wilkening Member of the Year Award. At the national level, she was recognized for her efforts in 2017 as a recipient of the International Service Award. She has published multiple articles in the APWA Reporter concerning both global technical and non-technical issues and has made multiple presentations at monthly APWA lunch meetings and conferences. She most recently served on the National Transportation Committee, is active on the chapter level, and serves as the chapter’s Advocacy Ambassador.