Over the last few years, the City of Phoenix Public Works Department experienced a perfect storm of events that impacted the ability to attract and retain highly qualified solid waste equipment operators (SWEO). Pension reform, a high number of retirements, and pay concessions resulted in a high turn-over rate. Out of challenging circumstances comes the opportunity for innovation. The SWEO Apprenticeship program trains new recruits from the ground up. The two-year program helps apprentices obtain their commercial driver's licenses (CDL), learn all aspects of a solid waste operation, and become a qualified SWEO. By working to bring in and train a diverse workforce, Phoenix is not only molding future organizational leaders but providing jobs to underserved and underrepresented populations. Learning Objectives: Adopt proven strategies for creating a successful apprenticeship program. Provide a framework for successful collaboration with the stakeholders for an apprenticeship program. Think outside-the-box for solutions for attracting and retaining qualified staff.
Contributor/Source
Felipe Moreno
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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.
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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.
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APWA Guides
APWA Guides provide guidance to public works professionals on a specific a topic.
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.
Toolbox
Toolboxes are curated guides offering valuable tips on a variety of public works-related topics.