Agencies often share that accreditation evaluations can feel overwhelming, especially when they are not sure what to expect. With the right preparation and insight into how the process works, agencies can approach their evaluations with confidence. This session provided an overview of what really happens during an evaluation and how agencies can prepare effectively.
Evaluations are more than checking boxes. They offer agencies the chance to showcase the great work they are doing, receive professional feedback from experienced peers, and demonstrate their commitment to excellence. When teams understand what evaluators are looking for and have a clear sense of the process, it helps reduce stress and encourages confidence throughout the visit. From the opening meeting to the exit meeting, preparation makes a meaningful difference in highlighting strengths and addressing any areas for improvement.
This open forum featured experienced evaluators and representatives from agencies that had completed evaluations. They shared practical tips, lessons learned, and strategies to help others prepare for their own review. Participants learned what evaluators typically look for, how to organize documentation, and ways to support their teams during the visit. Attendees brought questions and gained helpful insights.
Learning Objectives:
• Describe what occurs during an accreditation evaluation
• Identify what evaluators typically look for during the review process
• Understand the value of preparation, documentation, and team readiness
Handouts:
• Q&A Handout
Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
Program Types
CLL
Click, Listen & Learn (CLL) are interactive educational webinars. Each program is led by top experts in the field who share new ideas, methods, and technologies in a fast-paced two-hour time frame. These programs are available free to APWA members. CLL programs are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Primer
Primers are used to educate policymakers about public works roles and responsibilities in public rights of way, the impact of federal workforce development policies on the industry and workforce, and the importance of resilient infrastructure.
PWX
PWX session recordings cover a wide variety of topics, including integrating modes of transportation, traffic and transit, construction management, emergency management, engineering and technology, fleet and facilities, management, parks and grounds, snow and ice control, and stormwater/flood control, as well as solid waste, roads and bridges and water/wastewater. PWX sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Reporter Articles
APWA Reporter articles are written by public works practitioners on subjects such as solid waste management, water resources, municipal engineering, transportation, equipment services, buildings and grounds, snow removal, and other public works-related topics.
Snow
The Snow Conference session recordings feature public works professionals sharing the latest best practices in managing winter/snow operations more successfully, taking advantage of emerging technologies, understanding and preparing for the challenges ahead, and providing better service to their communities. Snow sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Tech Boxes
A tech box is a PDF take-away that provides information in lists, steps, or defined areas specifically focused on trending technologies.
Virtual Program
Virtual programs are live, interactive educational programs led by top experts in the field who provide timely information or address trending topics within an area. Programs often conclude with an open forum for Q&A.