Editor’s Note: Reaching the

Reaching the next generation of public works professionals

Sarah Wright | Editor

Few career paths are as diverse as public works, something truly showcased during National Public Works Week, which occurred from May 15-21 this year. Watching cities’ posts spotlighting their public works teams truly captured the sheer gamut of work available. The campaign definitely educates the public about services often taken for granted and the people who make them possible. And with this visibility, it may open eyes and opportunities for people looking for alternative career paths — whether they are a high school student just setting out or an adult looking for a change.

I particularly enjoyed Eugene, Ore.’s, approach to public works week this year. The city opted to follow Dylan, a local kid, as he explored the public works department in a series of adorable videos. Talk about a charismatic kid made for the camera! He played his role as host perfectly while providing a virtual tour of the department. This included introducing viewers to different members of the public works team and other local kids who get to see firsthand what those team members do on a daily basis. In all, the series consists of eight videos and can be viewed at www. eugene-or.gov/605/Public-Works-Events. I highly recommend checking them out, plus peeking at Eugene’s Virtual Public Works Week lesson plan.

It is important to connect with kids, to broaden their career options. The traditionally promoted route of college works for some children, but not all. Trades are a necessity, but if children aren’t exposed to them, they might miss out on a career they would have enjoyed and found fulfillment in. The public works field also misses out, especially as skilled employees retire and take years of experience with them.

Eugene isn’t alone in connecting with future generations. In this issue, writer Lauren Caggiano shares a partnership between the city of Moline, Ill., and MolineCoal Valley School District to offer paid internships for high school students in the city’s public works department. Prior to the internship, students are able to tour different public works facilities. It’s a great way to engage youth and provide them with a paying job and the chance to learn skills that will serve them well in the future.

In addition to this program, we are highlighting some massive public works projects that are or will benefit communities across the U.S.

Writer Beth Anne Brink-Cox spotlights Aiken, S.C.’s, Hitchcock Woods stormwater project, which used underground detention vaults to stop erosion problems. This public works project goes the extra mile by also providing a new green space for residents to enjoy while connecting them with a massive public works achievement. Aiken would receive the Municipal Association of South Carolina 2022 Achievement Award in the public works category for this innovative project.

Other topics include Broomfield, Colo.’s, collaborative approach to snowfighting; Vermont municipalities efforts to aid the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s tracing of COVID in wastewater; and Bartlesville, Okla.’s, improvements in Jo Allyn Lowe Park.

There are so many varied roles public works professionals fill. They truly keep the world moving.