APWA Congress and Expo: A big show in the Big Easy

Often referred to as “The Best Show in Public Works,” the congress promises to deliver four days of compelling educational programming, workshops and professional networking. At the congress, attendees have many opportunities to learn about pressing public works issues and concerns. They’ll take home cutting-edge content and solutions that they can put to work in their own agencies.

More than 120 technical and professional development sessions will be presented by industry experts and vendors. Some of the scheduled session topics include: construction management; emergency management; engineering and technology; fleet services; green/sustainability management; parks and grounds; solid waste; snow and ice; and streets/roads/bridges.

For their participation, attendees – and there should be more than 4,000 at this congress – are eligible to earn CEU credits, the nationally accepted measure of participation in continuing education activities.

Back by popular demand is the Public Works Stormwater Summit, geared to help public works directors and public-agency stormwater managers stay on top of the latest NPDES news and stormwater regulation compliance trends, plus a full schedule of in-depth workshops on Aug. 20, presented by expert speakers.

The huge exposition – over 100,000 square feet of exhibit space – opens at noon on Aug. 17 and runs through Aug. 19. Meet more than 500 vendors who will be on hand to demonstrate the latest in public works products, equipment and solutions. Special noncompete hours will allow attendees to visit the exhibit floor without having to miss any educational sessions.

Throughout the congress week, networking luncheons and brunches will offer participants the opportunity to interact with peers and discuss common interests. One example: a Progressive Women in Public Works breakfast, which will enable women to discuss their developing roles in the profession. Attendees also are welcome to attend a Mardi Gras parade and get-acquainted party on Aug. 17.

The Comeback City beckons

This year’s congress likely will have special significance for a number of attendees, as many APWA members are helping to rebuild the city of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

“In the spirit of recovering and rebuilding, the Louisiana chapter and the APWA staff are working tirelessly to prepare a conference that will be both informative and memorable,” APWA states on its Web site.

APWA isn’t just paying lip service to the rebuilding effort. Through its Proud to Care Program, APWA is assisting New Orleans residents whose lives were forever changed by the destruction of Hurricane Katrina. APWA members, exhibitors and guests attending the 2008 congress can support the rebuilding efforts by taking part in a two-day outreach program to rebuild homes in Saint Bernard Parish. In addition, APWA is partnering with the Blood Center of New Orleans on a blood drive during the 2008 congress.

The congress originally was scheduled to be held in New Orleans in 2006, but the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and subsequent flooding forced the APWA Board of Directors to reevaluate plans. However, the board committed to return to New Orleans and is delivering on its promise with the 2008 event.

For more information on the 2008 APWA International Public Works Congress and Exposition, click here.