Schedule

DOWNLOAD THE 2025 CONFERENCE PROGRAM NOW!

WEDNESDAY, JULY 30

8:00 am - 2:00 pm

ACCREDITATION SELF-ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP (Coronado 1)

Description: The Self-Assessment and Accreditation Workshop has been developed with a focus on understanding the practices for completing the self-assessment and improvement process using the Public Works Management Practices Manual and the software tool.

Public works self-assessment and accreditation provide opportunities for continuous improvement to your overall operations, ultimately leading to better quality of life for your community. Plan for a stronger, more resilient operation in which your employees are empowered by this opportunity to share their expertise and knowledge.

Learning Objectives:

Learn how to get started on the road to self-assessment and accreditation.
Take away tips and overall recommendations for agencies that are considering accreditation or in the process of their self-assessment.
Understand the benefits that commitment to the self-assessment and accreditation can bring to a public works agency.

Cost: $150 per person (includes training/materials, lunch, and snacks)

Register Here: https://arizona.apwa.org/event/accreditation-self-assessment-workshop/

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

FACILITIES AND GROUNDS CERTIFICATE (Coronado 2)

Description: The Facilities and Grounds Management Certificate program will cover the basic need-to-know topics that professionals in the facilities and grounds disciplines need to understand to perform their jobs effectively and proficiently. The program provides eight hours of training and real-life experiences in the areas of ADA compliance, grounds maintenance, preventative maintenance, capital improvement planning, and more. At the end of the program, participants will have 24 hours to complete an online exam and participates who pass the exam will be issued a certificate of completion.

Learning Objectives:

List the topics about which facilities and grounds professionals should possess a basic mastery and proficiency.
Discuss what facilities and grounds professionals should consider in their day-to-day planning and in forming both long- and short-range objectives.
Identify the information that should be considered by facilities and grounds professionals when they develop program initiatives and budgets.

Cost: $150 per person for members and $225 for non-members (includes training/materials, lunch, and snacks)

Register Here: https://arizona.apwa.org/event/facilities-and-grounds-certificate-workshop/

10:00 am - 1:00 pm

ANNUAL SUMMER TOPGOLF TOURNAMENT AND FUNDRAISER

See the Golf page for more information.

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

OPENING RECEPTION Sponsored by Hunter Contracting (Turquoise Ballroom/Foyer and Presidio Foyer)

Food Provided: Appetizers/Snacks

THURSDAY, JULY 31

7:30 am – 8:15 am

Exhibit Hall Networking and Breakfast (Turquoise Ballroom/Foyer and Presidio Foyer)

Food Provided: Full Meal

8:15 am – 9:50 am

OPENING SESSION (Presidio Ballroom):

2025-2026 Officer Induction Ceremony

Welcome Remarks: Stew Waller, Arizona APWA Chapter President

Keynote Speaker: Anthony Robles

Keynote Title: The Power of Being Unstoppable

Keynote Description: The Arizona Chapter APWA is proud to present Anthony Robles as our keynote speaker for the 2025 Statewide Conference — an Arizona native whose extraordinary story of determination continues to inspire audiences around the world.

Born in Mesa, Arizona without his right leg, Anthony was told countless times what he couldn’t do. But with the support of his family and a fierce internal drive, he discovered wrestling at the age of 14 and everything changed. Though his first season ended in last place, he refused to let failure define him. Through relentless hard work and unshakable belief, he became a 2-time Arizona high school state champion, a high school national champion, and ultimately walked on to the wrestling team at Arizona State University.

At ASU, Anthony rose to become a 3-time NCAA All-American and the 2011 NCAA Division I National Champion, proudly representing his home state on one of collegiate sports’ biggest stages. His achievements have earned him numerous honors, including two ESPY Awards, multiple Guinness World Records, and induction into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame, and ASU’s Sun Devil Athletics Hall of Fame.

Off the mat, Anthony has become a world-renowned motivational speaker, addressing Fortune 500 companies and global audiences. He’s an ESPN college wrestling analyst, published author of “Unstoppable”, a former member of the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, and the subject of an Amazon Prime biopic produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon.

Anthony’s story is one of resilience, faith, and relentless perseverance — a powerful reminder that our greatest challenges can become our greatest strengths. Join us for a keynote that will leave you inspired to face adversity head-on and pursue your goals with the heart of a champion.

10:00 am – 10:30 am

Exhibit Hall Networking and Morning Break (Turquoise Ballroom/Foyer and Presidio Foyer)

Food Provided: Appetizers/Snacks

10:30 am – 11:00 am

Presentation Title: Beale Street Streetscape Revitalization – Honoring The 100 Years Of Route 66

Speakers: Dick Yano, WSP; George Lane-Roberts, J. Banicki Construction

Presentation Description: The City of Kingman was at a crossroads. After economic difficulties from a lack of local business and tourism were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the desire to bring back the City’s one-of-a-kind energy had taken hold. The City aspired to rehabilitate its downtown infrastructure and create an exciting yet accessible future where its businesses could welcome all visitors and meet modern standards. This revitalization would be uniquely Kingman, embracing the City’s Route 66 history while overcoming budgetary restrictions. By completion, downtown Kingman had been fully revitalized and fully embraced by the City leaders, local residents, and visitors worldwide.

Presentation Title: Strategic Planning: Who, What, Why, How And When?

Speaker: Nancy Cole, Pima County

Presentation Description: Strategic Planning is the ongoing organizational process of using available knowledge to document an organization’s intended direction. and is critical for all organizations, at all levels. This presentation will review Strategic Planning at the top level, Public Works level, and Budget Framework levels. Learn about developing Mission and Vision statements and creating strategic plans with actionable objectives. This is one of the AZ PWI topics, come see what type of learning we offer in that program!

Presentation Title: Post-Fire Susceptibility – A Roadmap To Understanding Risk And Mitigation Strategy

Speaker: Jeff Sickles, Olsson

Presentation Description: Colorado has developed a progressive program, called Wildfire Ready Watersheds, to understand the susceptibility of Colorado’s watersheds to post-fire impacts and prepare for them before fires occur, through the development of Wildfire Ready Action Plans (WRAPs). WRAPs analyze post fire hazards, susceptibility, and provide pre- and post-fire mitigation actions. The information that is developed during a susceptibility analysis can support identification of corridors with high-risk, locations where critical assets such as reservoirs or municipal intakes are in jeopardy, but can also support an understanding of mitigation strategies that can be used to address these hazards.

Presentation Title: Collaboration In Action: The Emergency Back-Up, The Lessons Learned About “Inter-Connect”

Speakers: Dr. Angel Cobb, Can Xiao, and Joshua G. Smith, City of Phoenix; Jenny Doyle, City of Glendale

Presentation Description: In 2021, Glendale requested to establish two inter-connect points with Phoenix’s water system for emergency back-up water supply when Glendale lacks sufficient domestic water to meet the needs of its customers. Under those emergency situations, Glendale will notify Phoenix to request an immediate or imminent temporary supply of emergency backup water from Phoenix for up to 60 days.

With the on-going draught condition with Colorado river, Phoenix see more and more emergency water inter-connect requests from other smaller water utilities in the valley. Although those inter-connection locations provide more connectivity among all the water systems in the valley, it adds additional demand to Phoenix’s water system and resource. Phoenix is evaluating a balanced approach on how to accommodate those requests without negatively impacting the operation and supply of Phoenix’s water system.

Presentation Title: Enhancing Solid Waste Safety With Thermal Imaging Technology

Speakers: Tony Mena and Adam Kurtz, City of Goodyear

Presentation Description: Solid waste collection vehicles face increasing risks from fires caused by improperly disposed lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous materials. Goodyear Public Works has implemented thermal imaging technology as an early warning system for fires before drivers can see or smell smoke. This presentation will highlight the project’s development, testing process, and future applications to improve safety for collection crews and the community.

11:00 am – 11:30 pm

Presentation Title: Smart Water Management: Leveraging AI, IoT, And Real-Time Monitoring For Resilient Water Systems

Speaker: Ryan Circello, Burgess & Niple

Presentation Title: The Role Of Construction Oversight In Project Success

Speaker: Timothy Barry, RS&H, Inc.

Presentation Description: Owners are under immense pressure to deliver projects with limited resources and shrinking budgets, while trying to avoid the pitfalls that can affect project success. From funding difficulties, increased public scrutiny, alternative delivery, and cost uncertainty, project success is becoming more difficult to achieve. As industry challenges continue to rise, the importance of effective and diligent construction oversight has become integral to project success. Having a staff of experienced, qualified, and dedicated professionals protecting the owner’s interests can provide tremendous value and help owners navigate these challenges.

11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Presentation Title: Owner’s Perspective - Managing City Of Phoenix Water/Wastewater Infrastructure Projects

Speakers: Darlene Helm, Patty Kennedy, Stacey Kisling, and Josh Smith, City of Phoenix

Presentation Description: The City of Phoenix Water Services Department (WSD) prepares a multi-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) which is a plan for capital projects needed to maintain safe reliable water delivery and safe removal and treatment of wastewater. The panelists will discuss their experiences planning and managing projects for WSD. From preparing a capital budget to closing out a construction project, come listen to their ideas of how to manage the day-to-day challenges to complete a successful project.

Presentation Title: Navigating Professional Relationships And Difficult Situations As A Young Professional

Speakers: YP Committee; Juan Valles, CVL Consultants

Presentation Description: Navigating Difficult Situations as a Young Professional explores workplace challenges through acted-out scenarios featuring diverse young professionals. The presentation covers handling conflicts, receiving feedback, setting boundaries, and managing ethical dilemmas. Each scenario is followed by discussions that encourage reflection and offer practical strategies for effective communication, emotional intelligence, and self-advocacy. Attendees will gain insights into maintaining professionalism under pressure and fostering positive workplace relationships. This interactive session equips young professionals with the skills needed to navigate workplace challenges with confidence, adaptability, and resilience, ensuring they can thrive in their careers and build a strong professional foundation.

Presentation Title: From Ashes To Action: Technical, Political, And Social Strategies For Long-Term Post-Wildfire Flood Mitigation In Coconino County

Speakers: Lucinda Andreani, Coconino County Flood Control District; Joe Loverich, JE Fuller Hydrology and Geomorphology; Chris Dusza, Civiltec Engineering Inc.; Mike Kearly, Natural Channel Design Engineering

Presentation Description: After the 2022 Pipeline Fire caused severe and repetitive post-wildfire flooding across nine watersheds north of Flagstaff in Coconino County, the Coconino County Flood Control District worked to engineer innovative watershed restoration and flood mitigation infrastructure—but this technical challenge was only half the battle. This presentation covers how the District creatively addressed engineering challenges, navigated the political landscape to secure over $130 million in state and federal grants, negotiated social dynamics to finalize land agreements with hundreds of property owners, and ultimately restored watershed function, delivered life-changing public safety infrastructure, and championed their community’s recovery from a devastating wildfire.

11:30 am – 12:00 pm

Presentation Title: Pipe Bursting: Is It The Right Tool For Your Project?

Speakers: Ken Kawamoto and Abi Goode, Achen-Gardner Construction

Presentation Description: Pipe bursting has seen increased use in Arizona municipal water/wastewater applications in recent years. This method of trenchless pipeline rehabilitation involves pulling or pushing a new pipe through an existing pipe underground, facilitated by simultaneously “bursting” the existing pipe. Achen-Gardner Construction’s local experts in water/wastewater pipe rehabilitation methods will present lessons-learned and best practices for evaluating this methodology and executing pipe bursting projects. They will present case studies from recent municipal pipe bursting projects that included challenges such as bursting near railroad tracks, management of wastewater flows, minimizing traffic impacts, and avoiding existing utilities.

Presentation Title: Sedona Pedestrian Crossing At Oak Creek

Speakers: Gillian Arnold and Johnathan Hoffman, City of Sedona

Presentation Description: The Pedestrian Crossing at Oak Creek (PCOC) project helped to address the community's needs by providing a separate pathway under State Route 179 for pedestrians, alleviating traffic congestion while building in the floodway.

12:15 pm – 1:30 pm

APWA Awards Luncheon (Presidio Ballroom)

Food Provided: Full Meal

1:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Exhibit Hall Networking (Turquoise Ballroom/Foyer and Presidio Foyer)

2:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Presentation Title: APWA Arizona Chapter Operations Committee – What Can We Do For You?

Speakers: Augustine Gonzales, MCDOT; Anthony Celestino, City of Buckeye; Joseph Vitendo, Vitendo Training Solutions; Chris Ewell, Arizona Delegate

Presentation Description: What can the Operations Committee do for you to assist with information on new technology, best practices, soft-skills training, and more. Join us to hear our objectives and provide feedback on how best we can serve you and the chapter member needs.

Presentation Title: Converting From Conventional To MBR Treatment: Easier Than You Think

Speaker: Taylor Pierce and James Matthews, PACE

Presentation Description: Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology has gained traction as a highly efficient wastewater treatment solution, offering superior effluent quality, smaller footprint, and increasingly competitive costs. While the transition from conventional treatment to MBR may seem complex, many facilities can be successfully upgraded using existing infrastructure. This presentation will outline the do’s and don’ts of MBR conversion, showcasing cost-effective strategies and real-world case studies that demonstrate how facilities can achieve a seamless transition from conventional treatment.

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Presentation Title: Setting Up Your APDM Project Team For Success

Speakers: Dave Lipinski, Town of Queen Creek; Jeffrey A. Kramer, Consultant Engineering

Presentation Description: The success or failure of a project delivered utilizing an alternative delivery method is often determined before construction even begins. Learn strategies to maximize the preconstruction services provided by your contractors, and what you should expect in a well-developed Guaranteed Maximum Price.

Presentation Title: The Client Service Spectrum: What Agencies Need vs. What Consultants & Contractors Think They’re Delivering

Speakers: Rick Carr, City of Avondale; Chris Boston, Brycon Corporation; Barbara Shuck, Everest Marketing Services

Presentation Description: Public agencies and consultants/contractors value client service, but do they define it similarly? In this engaging and interactive session, Rick Carr (City of Avondale), Chris Boston (Brycon Corporation), and Barbara Shuck (AEC Marketing Expert) break down the disconnect between agency expectations and consultant promises—and how to bridge the gap. From reactive vs. proactive service models to best practices for collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, attendees will gain practical insights for strengthening partnerships and improving project outcomes. Whether you’re an agency leader, consultant, contractor, or business developer, this session will change the way you approach client service—for the better.

Presentation Title: Smarter Infrastructure Management For Modern Public Works

Speaker: Jim Krausman, opengov.com

Presentation Description: Public works departments face increasing pressure to do more with less, managing aging infrastructure while addressing rising community expectations. This session explores how forward-thinking public works teams can harness data, streamline operations, and embrace technology to extend the life of their assets and deliver greater value to their communities. Through real-world examples, we’ll discuss best practices in infrastructure management, focusing on the intersection of proactive planning, resource allocation, and emerging technologies like GIS and mobile access. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to drive efficiency, accountability, and transparency in their operations.

2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Presentation Title: Certificate And Accreditation Opportunities Through APWA

Speakers: Wendy Springborn, APWA; Chris Ewell, City of Phoenix

Presentation Description: Come and learn about all of the APWA Certificate and Accreditation programs available for your staff and agency including Facilities and Grounds Management; Public Fleet Management; Winter Maintenance Supervisor; Winter Maintenance Operator; and the newest certificate – Foundational Cybersecurity Concepts for Public Works Professionals.

These programs are offered in a variety of formats and have different target audiences. This 30-minute session will present a high-level overview of the pre-requisites, time commitment, testing requirements, and CEU offerings for each certificate program and accreditation along with a Question & Answer session at the end. Handouts and links will be provided as well.

Presentation Title: Together We Flow – Revitalizing Phoenix’s Water Infrastructure With Booster Pump Station 5A-B2

Speakers: Dr. Angel Cobb, City of Phoenix; Mikhail Maltsev, MGC Contractors; Karl Tobin, GHD

Presentation Description: The City of Phoenix operates and maintains over 300 remote water facilities including 109 booster pump stations. Providing reliable service through rehabilitation and replacement is a significant achievement for the City due the sheer number of facilities, proximity to homes, need to maintain operations during construction, and array of impacted stakeholders. The City found success in replacing Booster Pump Station 5A-B2 by fostering a collaborative approach with their design engineers and CMAR contractor. This led to a true team approach in addressing project challenges and in meeting all stakeholder needs including, City Engineering, Remote Operations, Distribution, SCADA, Right of Way, and the surrounding public.

3:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Exhibit Hall Networking (Turquoise Ballroom/Foyer and Presidio Foyer)

Food Provided: Appetizers/Snacks

3:30 pm – 4:00 pm

Presentation Title: Coconino County Base Stabilization Alternatives

Speakers: Chad Auker, Nate Reisner, Charlie Wilson, Coconino County

Presentation Description: Coconino County will present geotechnical findings from in place field testing of alternative base stabilization methods and financial impacts to projects that used alternative base stabilization methods. Coconino County will also present findings from a gravel road stabilization project and lessons learned.

Presentation Title: A New Approach To Adapting Arizona’s Roads For Heat Resilience

Speaker: Jonathon Kreibich, GAF Roads

Presentation Description: Arizona’s extreme temperatures, intense UV exposure and rapid pavement deterioration create ongoing challenges for public works professionals. Traditional road materials and maintenance strategies struggle under these conditions, leading to frequent repairs and rising costs. Advances in pavement technology, including high-performance treatments and data-driven maintenance strategies, offer new ways to enhance durability, lower long-term costs and mitigate heat retention. This session will explore solutions designed for Arizona’s unique climate and provide practical strategies for public works teams to build more resilient infrastructure that extends pavement life while addressing the demands of extreme weather conditions.

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Presentation Title: Shifting Gears In Downtown Tucson: How The Stone Avenue Cycle Track Came To Be

Speakers: Collin Chesston, City of Tucson; Alejandro Angel, Psomas

Presentation Description: The new Stone Avenue Cycle Track is a transformative infrastructure improvement in downtown Tucson. It provides a low-stress, protected bike facility that links key areas such as the Tucson Convention Center, El Presidio (the birthplace of Tucson), City and County buildings and parks and plazas. This presentation will outline the team’s approach to the planning, design and construction of the project to engage stakeholders, enhance the safety and mobility of all users, accommodate festival events and improve sustainability by integrating stormwater infrastructure.

Presentation Title: Whiskey Is For Drinking; Water Is NOT For Fighting? How Fundamentally Transitioning Heated Conversations Lead To More Successful Infrastructure

Speakers: Josh Palmer and Michaela Long, WSP

Presentation Description: Empathy informed infrastructure is better infrastructure. WSP’s Joshua Palmer and Michaela Long will walk professionals through the fundamentals of transitioning conflict fueled conversations around water infrastructure projects to productive ones. mediation best practices, and how to turn down the heat before conversations become too steamy.

Presentation Title: Harnessing AI To Power Up Public Works & AEC Professionals

Speakers: Barbara Shuck, Everest Marketing; Kristin Kautz, JAM Idea Bakery

Presentation Description: AI is here—and it’s changing how we plan, build, and communicate in public works and AEC. But technology alone isn’t enough. The real power lies in combining AI with human expertise to drive better decisions, stronger connections, and smarter strategies. Join Barbara Shuck, FSMPS, CPSM and Kristin Kautz, FSMPS, CPSM for a high-energy, interactive session where you’ll discover real-world AI tools that enhance teamwork, building relationships, and leadership—while keeping people at the center. Get ready to level up, streamline workflows, and unleash your AI-enhanced superpowers in public works!

4:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Presentation Title: Leveraging LinkedIn: Build Your Network And Your Career

Speaker: Nicole Moon, HDR

Presentation Description: If you want to build your professional network and grow your career in the public works industry, LinkedIn is the place to be. In this professional development session, attendees will learn best practices for crafting a standout LinkedIn profile, creating engaging content relevant to the public works sector, and fostering meaningful connections. Participants will also discover a proven formula for building a consistent and effective personal brand that resonates with their network. By the end of the session, attendees will have actionable strategies to optimize their LinkedIn presence, establish thought leadership in public works, and unlock new career opportunities.

Presentation Title: Designing Resilient Drainage Infrastructure

Speaker: Adrianna Lash, Rinker Materials

Presentation Description: Drainage infrastructure faces a growing range of threats, from extreme weather to aging systems. How can we design resilient solutions that stand up to these challenges? In this session, we'll explore the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 and share actionable strategies to fortify our drainage systems, ensuring they’re prepared for the next major disaster.

4:30 pm – 5:00 pm

Exhibit Hall Networking (Turquoise Ballroom/Foyer and Presidio Foyer)

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Fun Night Sponsored by DCS Contracting - Viva Las APWA Theme (Presidio Ballroom)

Food Provided: Appetizers/Snacks

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1

7:30 am - 9:00 am

Exhibit Hall Networking, Breakfast, and Vendor Prize Giveaways (Turquoise Ballroom/Foyer and Presidio Foyer)

Food Provided: Full Meal

9:15 am - 10:15 am

CLOSING PRESENTATION (Presidio Ballroom)

Presentation Title: Viva Leadership: Don't Head Out - Real Talk on People, Purpose, and Presence

Speakers:

Kristina Ramirez - Current Region VII Director on the APWA National Board and City Engineer for Harker Heights, Texas
Keith Pugh - Former APWA National President (2022-2023) and Director of Government Innovation at WithersRavenel
Dr. Angel Cobb - Past Arizona Chapter APWA President and Civil Engineer for the City of Phoenix
Chris Ewell - Arizona Chapter APWA Delegate and Assistant Public Works Director for the City of Phoenix
Stew Waller - APWA Arizona President and Senior Regional Engineer at Jensen Precast

Presentation Description: Join us for an energizing closing session that brings APWA’s leadership theme to life. Kristina Ramirez kicks things off with reflections on her personal journey before inviting a dynamic panel (Keith Pugh, Dr. Angel Cobb, Chris Ewell, and Stew Waller) to share pivotal leadership moments, lessons learned, and the power of showing up with purpose. Through real talk and candid conversation, this session will inspire you to embrace your unique path and make an impact in public works. Stay for the insight, stay for the inspiration—and stay connected as we close out the APWA Statewide Conference in style!

10:15 am - 10:30 am

APWA Giveaway Drawings (Presidio Ballroom)

10:30 am - 12:00 pm

AGENCY SHOWCASE (Presidio Ballroom)

Networking with Owners, Project Managers, and Decision Makers

Food Provided: Appetizers/Snacks

Agencies Confirmed:

City of Avondale
City of Buckeye Development Services/Engineering
City of Casa Grande
City of Phoenix
City of Surprise
City of Tempe
City of Tucson Department of Transportation & Mobility
City of Yuma
Maricopa County Department of Transportation
Pima County Regional Flood Control District
Pima County Project Design & Construction
Pima County Department of Transportation
Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department
Town of Gilbert
Town of Marana
Town of Queen Creek
Yavapai County Public Works Department