How can local governments improve trust in an environment of extreme public scrutiny and attract talent with increasing competition from private and public entities? Just 30 percent of Americans between 18–34 trust the federal government, and less than one-half hold favorable views of public servants. The generational makeup of today’s workforce requires effective leaders to understand the pros and cons of social networking forums and how to leverage these technology platforms as tools. Public works agencies looking to hire the best and brightest of newer generations might not get a second look without an updated online presence and interesting audio or video content to highlight their organization and improve credibility. The speakers will conduct a live session of “The Public Works Podcast” and riff on issues topical to public works like workforce development, employee attraction, and leveraging technology for positive uses. Attendees will be invited to ask questions and offer perspectives “live” via the internet and potentially star in their first podcast! Diving deeper into networking platforms and podcasts will offer appropriate uses and reduce fears associated with participation in audio and visual mediums. Providing agency updates in formats and venues where most people go to get their information can be a significant differentiator. Today’s public works professionals need to be equipped to use these tools as they strive to become tomorrow’s leaders. “After this session, participants will be better able to:
• Recognize online networking platforms and podcast formats applicable to local governments, including the need to update policies.
• Create, produce, and distribute basic content to generate interest for their organizations and leverage supporting technology.
• Participate and present in virtual sessions and podcast appearances with greater preparedness, familiarity, and comfort.”
Contributor/Source
Joseph Blackman-Founder, Shane Silsby-CEO
Claim CEUs
Submit this form to claim CEUs.
Related Resources
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.