This session will be divided into three smaller sessions. The first will discuss how IPWMAN came about, what sparked a conversation to begin developing a statewide mutual aid organization, what hurdles the early members faced, and how those hurdles were overcome so that IPWMAN could become what it is today—almost 500 members strong with a full-time executive director and three part-time employees. IPWMAN deploys in the state to several incidents each year, participates in training exercises, and were a part of the emergency response for the 2024 National Special Security Event Democratic National Convention. Finally, as we see it today, we will discuss the future of IPWMAN. Plans include spearheading statewide credentialing for public works first responders, assisting with EMAC requests, and responding to other states to help with disaster response, and developing a fully credentialed public works incident management team.
After this session, participants will be better able to:
• Analyze the process of forming the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN) almost 20 years ago.
• Acquire knowledge regarding how IPWMAN has grown from three charter members to almost 500 members, the type of work that goes on behind the scenes in preparation for response activities, and how IPWMAN and Illinois Emergency Management Agency–Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) work together on both the management and operational sides of the organization.
• Explore future plans of IPWMAN. Hear about how IPWMAN plans to grow and evolve to be a better, stronger organization for its members and the citizens of Illinois.
Contributor/Source
Barb Stiehl-Administration Coordinator, Mark Doerfler-Executive Director
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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.