Mutual aid networks are a cornerstone of effective emergency management for public works agencies, enabling communities to respond more efficiently and recover more quickly from disasters. Our presenters will examine three established public works mutual aid models: CoWARN (Colorado’s Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network), IPWMAN (Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network), and the Massachusetts Highway Association. This live virtual program will provide a comparative overview of how each network is structured, activated, and used during emergencies.
Participants will gain practical insight into how these networks facilitate resource sharing, support legal and financial considerations such as liability protection and cost reimbursement, and enhance coordination among local, regional, and state partners. The session will also explore how public works mutual aid integrates with emergency operations before, during, and after incidents, helping agencies build resilience and strengthen operational readiness.
Learning Objectives
After attending this session participants will be better able to:
- Identify the purpose and key components of formal public works mutual aid networks.
- Compare the structure, activation processes, and capabilities of CoWARN, IPWMAN, and the Massachusetts Highway Association.
- Describe how mutual aid networks support public works agencies during emergency response and recovery.
Links/Handouts
Speakers/Panelists
Christopher Bouchard
Co-Chair Mutual Aid Program
Massachusetts Highway Association
Chris Drey
Public Works Director
Village of Romeoville, IL
Gregg Stonecipher
Co-Chair
CoWARN
Water Production Director
City of Fort Collins One Water
Moderator
Jason Stawski
General Manager
Evergreen Metropolitan District
Hosted by the Emergency Management Committee
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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.
Public Works Radio Podcast
Public Works Radio is the official podcast of the American Public Works Association (APWA), bringing the stories behind our communities to life. This podcast shines a spotlight on the people and projects that keep our cities running—humanizing the work and the professionals who make it happen. Each episode dives into a wide range of topics designed to educate and inspire, making public works more visible to everyone.
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.