Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Maple Ballroom
Managing Drywells in Arid Communities
Wednesday, 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Maple Ballroom
Managing Drywells in Arid Communities
Session Overview:
It may not rain often in Eastern Washington, but drywell management still matters more than you’d think! Explore practical approaches for prioritizing thousands of UIC assets, reducing flooding risks, protecting drinking water, improving system performance, and creating manageable maintenance programs for aging infrastructure, particularly in arid communities.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate risks associated with aging UICs and drywells in arid communities, including impacts to aquifers, drinking water, and roadway flooding.
- Apply practical strategies for prioritizing large UIC inventories using factors such as wellhead protection zones, pollutant loading, asset condition, and available GIS data.
- Identify cost-effective approaches for improving UIC performance, reducing maintenance challenges, and advancing proactive stormwater management programs.
Ronnie Piechowski
Project Engineer
Osborn Consulting
Speaker Bio:
Ronnie brings experience in hydraulic modeling, alternatives analysis, PS&E package creation, basin planning, conveyance system design, and industrial SWPPP writing. She works primarily on drainage projects throughout eastern and central Washington and is most interested in green stormwater infrastructure and positively impacting communities and the environment
Tarelle Osborn
President
Osborn Consulting
Speaker Bio:
As President and Principal Engineer of Osborn Consulting, Tarelle takes pride in her work and in delivering a quality and innovative product. A recognized leader in surface water planning and design, her expertise spans a variety of project types, including hydraulic and hydrologic analysis, for all manner of clients.
Her technical experience encompasses both multidisciplinary alternative delivery and traditional bid build contracts, as well as standalone stormwater driven projects.
Josh Van Wie
Practice Lead, Stormwater & Utilities
Osborn Consulting
Speaker Bio:
Leading Osborn Consulting’s Stormwater and Utilities practice, Josh designs and manages a variety of utilities and water resources projects. His expertise includes big-picture planning, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, as well as designing stormwater treatment facilities, storm and sewer conveyance systems, right-of-way improvements, and site development.
Chris Boykin-Terrell
Project Engineer
Osborn Consulting
Speaker Bio:
As a project engineer, Chris primarily supports our stormwater planning and design work in eastern Washington. Chris excels in collaborating with others towards a common goal and understands the importance of building strong relationships as the bedrock of quality engineering solutions.
Right People, Right Place in Right of Way
Wednesday, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Maple Ballroom
Right People, Right Place in Right of Way
Session Overview:
Right-of-Way compliance is critical to project success and funding retention. This session focuses on how placing the right people in the right roles supports certification requirements, keeps projects aligned with evolving regulations, and helps public works agencies avoid costly funding impacts.
Session Objectives:
- Identify key Right-of-Way roles and responsibilities required to meet certification and funding requirements.
- Evaluate recent rule changes impacting ROW compliance and public works project funding.
- Apply best practices for staffing and oversight to reduce compliance risk on public works projects.
Faith Roland
Senior ROW Specialist
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Faith has 30 years of public agency experience in real estate acquisitions, brokerage services, and project management. She is well-versed in developing administrative policies and representing entities through public meetings, citizen oversight committees, and city council presentations. Faith served as Director of Real Property at Sound Transit from 2021 to 2024 where she oversaw all real property and project delivery for acquisitions, relocations, and property management.
Jenifer Olson
Senior ROW Specialist
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Jenifer is a highly accomplished real estate professional with a proven track record of managing complex projects from inception to timely delivery. With a specialized focus on acquisition and relocation, Jennifer possesses a deep technical understanding of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act, ensuring that large-scale transitions are handled with precision and legal integrity. She is also a licensed WA Real Estate Broker and Notary, combining high-level project oversight with the technical licensing required for rigorous compliance.
Who’s Living in Your Right-of-Way?
Wednesday, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM
Maple Ballroom
Who’s Living in Your Right-of-Way?
Session Overview:
Right-of-way (ROW) work touches more people than property owners on the project footprint. This session examines three Commonstreet projects where dignity-first engagement shaped outcomes and trust — an Everett motel assistance program, the Alaskan Way Viaduct removal, and a Bainbridge Island acquisition. See how ROW work defines community belonging.
Session Objectives:
- Identify community touchpoints in ROW acquisition that affect trust and project velocity — including successful acquisition/relocation activities, doorway access, service networks, informal economies, and vulnerable populations.
- Apply dignity-first engagement practices to property owner and tenant interactions, with transparency about timeline and process.
- Evaluate how ROW work impacts vulnerable populations (unhoused, service-dependent, low-income) and plan agency response accordingly.
Ted Parry
Sr. Project Manager, J.D.
Commonstreet Consulting
Speaker Bio:
Ted Parry, J.D. is a Sr. Project Manager at Commonstreet Consulting with 20+ years in ROW and property acquisition. He led the City of Bainbridge Island Eagle Harbor Dr./Wyatt Way Phase 1 acquisition to certification in 45 days and directed the City of Marysville 88th Street NE Corridor Improvement Project, Phase 1 program – earning IRWA Chapter 4’s 2024 and 2025 Projects of the Year. He brings deep Washington expertise and leadership on local and regional acquisition programs.
Chris La Bonte
Speaker Bio:
Brendan Perko
Sr. Project Manager
Commonstreet Consulting
Speaker Bio:
Brendan Perko is a Sr. Project Manager at Commonstreet Consulting with 14+ years of property and ROW expertise, including CPTED certifications. He led the Homelessness Response and Property Management efforts for WSDOT SR167 Corridor Completion Project — offering services to over 500 people taking shelter within the 6-mile project footprint with initial properties reclaimed and delivered to Design Builder 2 months ahead of schedule — earning IRWA Chapter 4’s 2023 Project of the Year. He also built the City of Fife Homelessness Response and Property Management Program.
Cedar Ballroom
When Disaster Strikes with a High-Profile Project
Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Cedar Ballroom
When Disaster Strikes with a High-Profile Project
Session Overview:
The Cochran Basin Stormwater Facility in the City of Spokane was a multi-year and multi-million-dollar series of projects to protect the Spokane River. A week after the work received the Governor’s Award for SMART Projects, a weir failed. What we learned and how lemons turned into lemonade.
Session Objectives:
- Apply key levels and priorities for stakeholder engagement, media relations, and managing communications to the public for a highly visible public project.
- Analyze response and recovery steps during a project failure.
- Identify the areas of failure, recognize and develop design solutions for the stormwater facility.
Kirstin Davis
Communications Manager
City of Spokane Public Works
Speaker Bio:
Kirstin has over 30 years of public communications and media relations experience. As a lifelong resident of Spokane, she has great satisfaction in working for the City of Spokane and educating the community about the value and importance of Public Works services.
Duane Studer
Principal Engineer
City of Spokane Wastewater Department
Speaker Bio:
Duane is a Civil engineer with over 30 years of experience as a consultant and municipal engineer in storm, sanitary, combined sewer, and water projects. He has worked at the City of Spokane for 12 years and is currently the Principal Engineer for the Wastewater Management and Collection Systems.
Waterfront Seattle’s Lifecycle Asset Management Approach
Wednesday, 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Cedar Ballroom
Waterfront Seattle’s Lifecycle Asset Management Approach
Session Overview:
Where does Asset Management belong in an organization? Sometimes embedded directly into a once-in-a-generation $1B transformational capital program. Waterfront Seattle used an integrated, vision-driven approach that prioritized long-term maintenance, performance, and risk reduction while delivering high-quality public spaces, new asset types, and strong partnerships across agencies, tribes, and communities.
Session Objectives:
- Utilize the scope and vision of Waterfront Seattle’s Program, including major infrastructure, public space, and mobility improvements, to determine where Asset Management can fit best in an organization based on the different development phases (vision, planning, design, construction, operations.)
- Evaluate how asset management strategies such as lifecycle cost analysis, funding partnerships, performance standards, and risk mitigation approaches are used within a complex capital delivery environment across multi-jurisdictional ownership.
- Discuss how community-driven urban planning and consistent leadership shaped a “waterfront for all” from concept through operations to support long-term asset performance.
Emily Burns
Waterfront Asset Management Program Manager
City of Seattle, Office of the Waterfront, Civic Projects, & Sound Transit
Speaker Bio:
Emily Burns brings over 30 years of public service experience, including 20 years specializing in asset management for multi-modal infrastructure and serves as the Waterfront Asset Management Program Manager and Sound Transit Real Property Work Group Manger. Her work has advanced initiatives in open space preservation, environmental stewardship, race and social justice, sustainable building, public housing, and project management. She holds a B.A. in Public Administration from Seattle University and is a certified Project Management Professional.
Barbara Lee
Waterfront Program Director
City of Seattle, Office of the Waterfront, Civic Projects, and Sound Transit
Speaker Bio:
Barbara is a highly accomplished civil engineer and project management professional currently serving as the Program Director for the Waterfront Seattle Program. In her concurrent role as the Director of the Sound Transit Program Delivery and Engineering, she is a core leadership figure driving the monumental transformation of Seattle’s central urban infrastructure. With over three decades of public and private sector expertise in heavy civil infrastructure, bridge structures, and capital project delivery, Barbara excels at navigating complex multi-departmental initiatives. Her career is defined by transforming high-stakes, multi-million dollar engineering designs into vibrant, community-centric public spaces.
Quick Builds for Slower Streets
Wednesday, 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Cedar Ballroom
Quick Builds for Slower Streets
Session Overview:
The City of Spokane’s Traffic Calming typically spends $2.6M annually on citizen requests for traffic calming such as radar speed signs, crosswalks, and sidewalks. In recent years the program has focused on installing Quick Builds to enhance the bicycle network and deliver more projects throughout the city.
Session Objectives:
- Identify the pros and cons of different bike lane separators
- Evaluate the costs of various traffic calming treatments
- Discuss the maintenance concerns associated with Quick Builds
Inga Note, PE
Principal Traffic Engineer
City of Spokane
Speaker Bio:
Inga Note is a Principal Traffic Engineer in the City of Spokane’s Public Works division. A graduate of Oregon State University, she has over 25 years of experience in Traffic and Transportation Engineering and leads a variety of transportation programs within the City. Her favorite projects expand the City’s shared-use pathway system and allow residents to be less reliant on cars for daily needs.
Colin Quinn-Hurst
Principal Planner
City of Spokane
Speaker Bio:
Colin Quinn-Hurst is a Principal Planner with the City of Spokane’s Planning and Economic Development Division. A graduate of Alaska Pacific University and University of Utah, Colin manages the micromobility contract with Lime, and has been a strong internal advocate for improving the bicycle network and trying new treatments.
Tyler Kimbrell
Senior Planner
City of Spokane
Speaker Bio:
Tyler Kimbrell is a Senior Planner in the City of Spokane’s Planning and Economic Development Division. A graduate of Eastern Washington University, Tyler focuses on making communities more livable. His current projects include a new Quick Build Guide, and updates of the bicycle design standards and Vision Zero plan.
Searching for PFAS Sources to Spokane Wells
Wednesday, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Meeting Room 1
Searching for PFAS Sources to Spokane Wells
Session Overview:
City of Spokane has two adjacent wells with different levels of PFAS. Searching for potential sources of PFAS. Tools and methods to try and identify PFAS sources.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate options to Identify PFAS sources
- Search for data sources and PFAS sources
- Review results
Doug Greenlund
Water Quality Coordinator
City of Spokane Water Department
Speaker Bio:
Water Quality Coordinator for the City of Spokane for seven years. WMD 4.
Stormwater Facility Maintenance and Responsibility
Wednesday, 4:15:00 PM – 5:15:00 PM
Cedar Ballroom
Stormwater Facility Maintenance and Responsibility
Session Overview:
This presentation highlights the importance of effective stormwater management and identifies responsible parties for municipal separate storm sewer system maintenance, using the City of Spokane as an example. Additionally, common stormwater assets will be identified, their maintenance requirements will be summarized, and typical indicators of maintenance deficiencies will be reviewed.
Session Objectives:
- Identify common stormwater facilities and discuss their function.
- Identify indicators of stormwater facility maintenance deficiency and discuss their consequences.
- Review how the responsibility for stormwater facility maintenance is assigned to both public and private entities.
Rebecca Casey
Environmental Analyst
City of Spokane – Wastewater Management
Speaker Bio:
Rebecca is an Environmental Analyst in the Wastewater Department at the City of Spokane. Her background is in analytical chemistry and regulatory compliance for pharmaceutical manufacturing and environmental health and safety in pharmaceutical research laboratories. She has worked for the City of Spokane for two years, aiding in compliance with the Eastern Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit, issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology.
Meeting Room 1
Building Civic Infrastructure: Connecting Communities, Minimizing Barriers
Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Meeting Room 1
Building Civic Infrastructure: Connecting Communities, Minimizing Barriers
Session Overview:
Can our public works effectively confront the challenges of loneliness, polarization, and a general retreat from civic life? This session will explore new frameworks and in-depth case studies to explore how a pro-social public works program can rebuild our communities’ civic connections.
Session Objectives:
- Define and identify the characteristics and criteria of pro-social infrastructure
- Review case studies of projects that have incorporated civic infrastructure components and the lessons learned from these projects
- Evaluate different types of infrastructure assets for their capacity to strengthen social bonds and connections.
Brice Maryman, PLA, FASLA
Principal
MxM Landscape Architecture
Speaker Bio:
Brice Maryman has managed significant right of way planning and design projects across the Puget Sound Region, where he focuses on improving the vitality of urban ecosystems and the health of human environments. Whether managing the implementation of public streetscapes, assembling parks master plans, or coordinating green stormwater infrastructure systems, he is passionately concerned with shaping empathetic landscapes that reveal a robust, and reciprocal, community of care. In the right of way, this means designing safe systems and thoughtful, well-designed landscapes that benefit all users.
Amalia Leighton Cody, PE
Director of Engineering, Wester Region
Toole Design
Speaker Bio:
Amalia Leighton Cody is a civil engineer and planner with nearly twenty-five years of experience planning, designing, and delivering multimodal transportation and public realm projects for cities across the Puget Sound region. She works closely with municipal agencies and their partners to shape projects that improve mobility, safety, and community vitality. Amalia regularly contributes to complex, multidisciplinary teams that include landscape architects. bicycle and pedestrian planners, urban designers, public health specialists, and equity focused community partners.
Advancing Water Conservation Plans and Smart Meters
Wednesday, 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Meeting Room 1
Advancing Water Conservation Plans and Smart Meters
Session Overview:
A presentation to gain practical and actionable insights while exploring City of Spokane’s water use efficiency and conservation programs, operational improvements, and advanced technologies. Attendees will hear about proven strategies, real-world applications, and the powerful role advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) has in municipal utility management for long-term sustainability.
Session Objectives:
- Analyze methods for improving water use efficiency through conservation programs, operational practices, and technology driven strategies.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of municipal water conservation approaches in supporting long term sustainability and reducing system wide water loss.
- Review how advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) provides real time data and automated leak detection to improve system efficiency and operational decision making.
Kirstin Davis
Communications Manager
City of Spokane Public Works
Speaker Bio:
Kirstin has over 30 years of public communications and media relations experience. As a lifelong resident of Spokane, she has great satisfaction in working for the City of Spokane and educating the community about the value and importance of Public Works service.
Julie Clark
IT Supervisor (Business Systems) – Water
City of Spokane Water Department
Speaker Bio:
Julie has over 20 years of technical expertise with a strong focus on systems, reporting, and process improvement. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she is passionate about leveraging technology to streamline processes and deliver meaningful benefits to the City of Spokane and the community.
Building Communities of Belonging Through Transit Spot Improvements
Wednesday, 1;15 PM – 2:15 PM
Meeting Room 1
Building Communities of Belonging Through Transit Spot Improvements
Session Overview:
Seattle’s Transit Spot Improvements Program has delivered dozens of low-cost, high-impact projects that improve transit reliability, safety, and access across the city. Through examples including Route 8 on Denny Way, streetcar safety enhancements, reverse queue jumps, transit priority treatments, and equity-focused investments, attendees will learn how SDOT and its consultant partners identify, prioritize, and implement projects that provide measurable benefits without major capital expenditures. The session will provide practical lessons for agencies seeking to implement low-cost transit capital investments that provide transit benefits, while improving mobility for historically underserved communities.”
Session Objectives:
- Identify and develop low-cost transit improvement projects.
- Evaluate and measure the benefits of transit projects for speed, reliability and safety.
- Identify metrics for measuring equity.
Jonathan Dong
Transit Strategic Advisor
Seattle Department of Transportation
Speaker Bio:
Jonathan Dong has worked for the Seattle Department of Transportation since 2008 and is currently the manager of the City’s Transit Spot Improvement Program. Jonathan’s expertise includes planning and design for transit capital improvements.
Richard Hutchinson
Senior Vice President
DKS Associates
Speaker Bio:
Richard Hutchinson is a Senior Vice President with DKS Associates and has been a traffic engineer in Washington State for 25 years, including the last 13 years with DKS. He is a registered Professional Engineer in Washington State, a certified Professional Traffic Operations Engineer, and a graduate of the University of Washington. Richard’s work focuses on transportation safety, and he brings a strong passion for transit and helping communities improve mobility, access, and safety.
City Streets as State Highways MOU Update
Wednesday, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Meeting Room 1
City Streets as State Highways MOU Update
Session Overview:
Representatives of the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) and the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will report on their progress updating their 2013 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) providing guidelines on construction, operations, and maintenance responsibilities for city streets that are part of state highways and seek input from attendees.
Session Objectives:
- Review the status of the process so far, including project phases and associated outcomes
- Identify potential changes or additions to the guidelines that could make them more useful
- Discuss how to create a process to ensure the agreement can be adapted to address future challenges
Jay Drye
Director, Local Programs
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)
Speaker Bio:
Jay Drye is the Director of Local Programs for the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). In his role he is responsible for the federal-aid oversight program for local agencies in Washington, technical and educational support programs, along with multiple grant and funding programs. Local Programs has more than 1500 active projects currently in the state being led by over 400 agencies.
Steven Ellis
Government Relations Advocate
Association of Washington Cities (AWC)
Speaker Bio:
Steven Ellis is a Government Relations Advocate with the Association of Washington Cities. He lobbies on issues involving public works and infrastructure, telecommunications, transportation, and utilities and energy.
Kylee Jones
Transportation Project Manager
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Kylee Jones is the Transportation Project Manager for engineering planning and design consultants Kimley-Horn. An advocate for creating healthy and sustainable communities through safe, multimodal and connected transportation systems, she has worked in both urban and rural contexts across Washington, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and the Mountain West.
From Lines on Paper to Streets in Motion
Wednesday, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM
Meeting Room 1
From Lines on Paper to Streets in Motion
Session Overview:
Most people can’t read engineering drawings or even begin to “visualize” what a project might look like when it’s constructed, yet we expect them to provide meaningful input. Case studies will be presented to illustrate how innovative engagement tools help multi-modal projects get built.
Session Objectives:
- Review the limitations of traditional design communication tools and why many audiences struggle to interpret plans and engineering drawings.
- Identify effective strategies and tools for visualizing projects in ways that improve public understanding.
- Apply best practices for translating technical concepts into accessible formats that support better project outcomes.
Wende Wilber, PTP
Senior Principal
Kittelson & Associates, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Wende Wilber is a Senior Principal Planner with Kittelson & Associates, based in Spokane. With over 33 years of experience in multi-modal transportation, environmental, and land use planning, Wende has dedicated her career to integrating all community voices into the decision-making process through creative engagement methods.
Anthony Davies, PE
Associate Engineer
Kittelson & Associates, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Anthony is a public works expert with over 15 years of experience. He brings a construction and public sector background perspective to his projects, giving him unique insight into communicating with the public while balancing agency constraints.
Meeting Room 2
Climate Resiliency at WSDOT
Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Meeting Room 2
Climate Resiliency at WSDOT
Session Overview:
Presentation will cover the history, partnerships, and design guidance WSDOT has adopted around climate resiliency on the highway system.
Session Objectives:
- Discuss the history of climate resilience strategies at WSDOT.
- Identify partnerships that have been beneficial to developing climate design guidance.
- Develop design guidance that incorporates climate resilience.
Luke Assink
Hydraulic and Floodplain Design Manager
WSDOT
Speaker Bio:
Luke has been with WSDOT for 20 years as a hydraulic engineer. He oversees scour and floodplain designs around Washington for the state highway system.
50 Years Practicing Alternative Delivery: Lessons Learned
Wednesday, 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Meeting Room 2
50 Years Practicing Alternative Delivery: Lessons Learned
Session Overview:
After almost 50 years of practicing all forms of alternative delivery, the key performance attributes of successful and unsuccessful alternative delivery projects remain generally consistent. This session will identify and we will discuss those key attributes thru the lens of the Owner, Owners Advisor, General Contractor, and Design Firm.
Session Objectives:
- Identify and discuss key performance attributes of successful and unsuccessful alternative delivery projects thru the lens of the Owner and Owners Advisor.
- Identify and discuss key performance attributes of successful and unsuccessful alternative delivery projects thru the lens of the General Contractor and the Design Firm.
- Summarize and review the outcomes of Objectives #1 and #2 then identify strategies and actions that mitigate risks that result from unsuccessful alternative delivery project performance.
Jim Dugan
Principal Consultant
Parametrix
Speaker Bio:
Jim is a Principal Consultant at Parametrix and manages the Tacoma Office. He has served on the state’s Project Review Committee since 2016 and has been an alternative project delivery practitioner since 1978. Jim continues to work with a wide variety of clients and agencies to ensure successful planning and implementation of projects using Washington State RCW 39.10 alternate project delivery methodologies.
Lessons from Malden Wildfire Recovery
Wednesday, 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Meeting Room 2
Lessons from Malden Wildfire Recovery
Session Overview:
This session explores the short and long-term term recovery of Malden, WA after the 2020 wildfire, highlighting infrastructure rebuilding, long-range comprehensive planning and zoning, funding challenges, and community resilience. Learn how engineering, policy, and leadership aligned to rebuild a small town while preparing for future wildfire risk.
Session Objectives:
- Discuss the key phases of disaster recovery following a near-total community wildfire loss.
- Analyze the engineering, planning, and funding challenges associated with rebuilding.
- Identify strategies used to enhance wildfire resilience.
Scott Rivas, P.E.
Associate Principal
SCJ Alliance
Speaker Bio:
Scott Rivas, P.E. is a civil engineer with over 30 years of consulting experience for projects across Washington State and beyond. Scott holds a Master of Business Administration from Eastern Washington University and a Bachelors in Science in Engineering from Walla Walla University. Scott is an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Aren Mucar, AICP
Associate Principal
SCJ Alliance
Speaker Bio:
Aren Mucar, AICP, is an urban planner with over 12 years of experience in community planning across Washington State. He holds a Master of Arts in Urban and Regional Planning and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Eastern Washington University. Aren is an active member of the Washington Chapter of the American Planning Association.
Cultural Resources Memento
Wednesday, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Meeting Room 2
Cultural Resources Memento
Session Overview:
The slides are out of order, reflecting a history of archaeology associated with projects in Washington State. This presentation will offer a synopsis of archaeological mishaps and what can be done to prevent them. Influenced by the film Memento, this session offers an interesting presentation on cultural resources management.
Session Objectives:
- Define elements of archaeological methods.
- Develop skills necessary for working with the State and tribes.
- Prepare for your next project.
Gideon Cauffman
Archaeologist
City of Oak Harbor
Speaker Bio:
Gideon Cauffman career spans over 20 years of cultural resources management for federal, municipal, and tribal governments. He possesses a Bachelor of Arts from Washington State University and a Master of Science from Central Washington University, has submitted over one hundred archaeological reports to the Washinton State Department of Archaeology & Historic Preservation, and presented to numerous community organizations, groups, and schools. He is the archaeologist for the City of Oak Harbor, in addition to being vice chairman of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Gaming Commission, and a Board member of Island County Community Health Advisory Board.
O & M Track – Meeting Room 3
Lessons Learned the Hard Way
Wednesday, 7:45 AM – 8:45 AM
Meeting Room 3
Lessons Learned the Hard Way
Session Overview:
Listen and share real-world near misses/incidents in the public works sector, highlighting safety failures, communication breakdowns, and critical decision-making moments. Attendees will gain practical insights to prevent future incidents, strengthen workplace safety culture, and improve operational awareness. Ideal for supervisors, operators, field crews, and safety personnel.
Session Objectives:
- Identify common factors that contribute to near misses in public works operations.
- Evaluate real-world incidents to improve hazard recognition and decision-making in the field.
- Apply practical strategies that strengthen communication, accountability, and workplace safety practices.
Travis Rakestraw
Stormwater Lead
City of Walla Walla
Speaker Bio:
I started my career with the City of Walla Walla as a seasonal employee for the Water Treatment Division, then two seasons with the Streets Division. In 2011, I was hired full time with Streets and in 2019, I advanced to my current position as the Stormwater Maintenance Lead. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family in the mountains; hunting, fishing, camping, and 4-wheeling.
Jared Jones
Wastewater Lead
City of Walla Walla
Speaker Bio:
I have worked for the City of Walla Walla Public Works Streets Division for 12 years, with most of my time focused on wastewater collections maintenance. I am currently the Wastewater Lead for collections, which I have been doing since 2019. When I am away from work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids, my faith is the most important aspect of my life, and my hobbies are; hiking, camping, fishing, gardening, and video games.
Cody Dockendorf
Speaker Bio:
Greg Soto
Maintenance Worker 2
Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District
Speaker Bio:
I have been with the District for a little more than four years, after having worked 17 years in civil construction. We have a small crew that operates and maintains the infrastructure in order to treat and distribute water, as well as conveys the sewage to the City of Bellingham’s sewer treatment plant.
Supervisor Roundtable Q & A
Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Meeting Room 3
Supervisor Roundtable Q & A
Session Overview:
Come and talk to Supervisors and leaders from all types of industries about how they worked their way into the position of leadership they hold now. The intent is to help maintenance staff who show interest in career advancement, work to become the next future leaders and Supervisors of their departments.
Session Objectives:
- Discover how to handle transitioning from a peer to a supervisor
- Prepare yourself for opportunities for advancement while in your current position without creating drama with coworkers
- Interact professionally with management while in your current position (Don’t burn bridges)
Nick Bemis
Operations Supervisor
Thurston County Public Works
Speaker Bio:
I have worked for Thurston County Public Works for 23 years, starting as a seasonal employee working my way up to operations Supervisor. I am married with three children and have one granddaughter. I enjoy the outdoors hunting and fishing.
Fritz Beierle
Street/Storm Superintendent
City of Chehalis Washington
Speaker Bio:
I have only worked for the City of Chehalis for 2.5 years. I worked for Thurston county for 18 years. My start in the public sector work was with WSDOT plowing snow on White Pass. I have done many different positions on my way up to Superintendent. I am married with 3 kids with 7 grand kids.
Patrick Zellner
Retired
City of Renton
Speaker Bio:
Throughout my 50+ years of living and working, I have always chosen to be at the forefront of making our work better, safer, and more successful. I have developed a fearless approach to my craft, spanning a diverse background in farming, carpentry, home construction, and heavy equipment operation. My career includes service as a USAF combat engineer and 38 years in city government within street maintenance and leadership.
Mike Helgeson
Assistant Public Works Director
City of Ellensburg
Speaker Bio:
My career at the City of Ellensburg has spanned over 26 years in several different roles. I have worked in Wastewater, Water, and Natural Gas Divisions before moving into my current role as the Assistant Public Works Director for the last 5 years. I have been married for over 30 years and really enjoy sports, serving for many years as a youth and high school football, baseball, and basketball coach.
Rebuilding Communication Where it Breaks Down
Wednesday, 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Meeting Room 3
Rebuilding Communication Where it Breaks Down
Session Overview:
Communication is the backbone of a strong team, however in the public works space teams are always shifting, priorities changing, and the needs of teams are evolving. Join us to learn about communication in our industry, and gain a glimpse of understanding communication styles, walking through common communication pitfalls, sharing examples of success and failure, and an interactive activity to practice communication yourself!
Session Objectives:
- Identify different communication styles across teams
- Define common pitfalls in communication
- Develop collaborative strategies for navigating miscommunication
Christian Nichols
Engineer
PACE Engineers, A Verdantas Company
Speaker Bio:
I have been with PACE for 9 years, in the industry for 13, but worked in the public works scene for 8 years. My focus is supporting jurisdictions through stormwater project planning and delivery, including any other MS4 NPDES permitting needs and grant writing. Additionally, I provide development review support for multiple jurisdictions.
Cameron Williamson
Engineer Technician II
City of Othello
Speaker Bio:
I have been with the City of Othello for 3.5 years, starting as the City Inspector for contractor work and responsible for design work for our smaller projects, now working towards managing the smaller projects entirely from writing contracts and special provisions to project closeout. I was with a private engineering firm for almost a year before this position, and was a drafting intern during college for a contractor on the Hanford site for 2 years before that.
Robin Adolphsen
Public Works Director/City Engineer
City of Othello
Speaker Bio:
I’m the City Engineer and Public Works Director for the City of Othello. I’ve been with the City for 2 years, and I was at an irrigation district for 13 years prior to that as an Engineer.
Reece Hobday
Senior Surface Water Technician
City of Mukilteo
Speaker Bio:
I have worked in municipal government in several different types of roles from maintenance roles, communication roles and technical roles. I started working maintenance while going to college and moved into solid waste/stormwater outreach. From there I took on an interim stormwater inspector role starting my journey into stormwater technical work. I currently work for the City of Mukilteo as the senior surface water technician.
Emerging Trends in Winter Road Maintenance
Wednesday, 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Meeting Room 3
Emerging Trends in Winter Road Maintenance
Session Overview:
This session explores how emerging technologies, data-driven decision support, and workforce changes are reshaping winter road maintenance. Attendees will gain practical insights into sensors, de-icers, dynamic spreading, and AI to improve safety, optimize material usage, and manage costs while maintaining desired levels of service during snow and ice events.
Session Objectives:
- Identify emerging technologies, materials, and operational strategies that are transforming winter road maintenance.
- Evaluate how modern tools and decision-support systems compare with traditional practices in cost, environmental impact, and operational performance.
- Analyze how workforce shifts, automation, and data-driven insights can improve agency readiness, safety outcomes, and winter service levels.
Mark DeVries
Business Application Manager and Winter Maintenance Expert
Vaisala Inc
Speaker Bio:
Mark DeVries is a Business Application Manager and winter maintenance expert at Vaisala Inc., where he helps agencies improve operations, solve complex winter maintenance challenges, and implement effective liquid de-icing programs. He previously served for 30 years at McHenry County Division of Transportation, retiring as Maintenance Superintendent. Mark has presented widely across North America and internationally and has authored numerous articles, white papers, and research for Clear Roads, NCHRP, and other agencies.
Kenberley Field
Sales Manager
Vaisala Inc
Speaker Bio:
Kenberley Field has extensive experience in business development, sales management, and customer applications training within the winter maintenance industry for over 25 years. She started her career with a winter maintenance product supplier and later joined Vaisala’s Road Division, specializing in Road Weather Information Systems.
Tools and Strategies for Comprehensive Beaver Management
Wednesday, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Meeting Room 3
Tools and Strategies for Comprehensive Beaver Management
Session Overview:
Beavers have a big impact on the habitats that they call home. This can be a boon for wildlife sharing this space, and a headache for people nearby. Join Wes Smith with USDA Wildlife Services, and Joe Mouser with Beavers Northwest to discuss modern tools and strategies for beaver management.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate tools and strategies for coexisting with beavers in modern watersheds.
- Review case studies of effective alternatives to lethal beaver management including coexistence devices and relocation.
- Discuss the benefits, challenges, and limitations of alternative forms of beaver management.
Joe Mouser
Communications Manager
Beavers Northwest
Speaker Bio:
Joe is the Communications Manager for Beavers Northwest, a non-profit organization based in Shoreline, WA. Beavers Northwest works with local jurisdictions, and private landowners across Western Washington to help find nonlethal solutions to beaver conflicts. His work commonly takes place in stormwater facilities, parks, drainage ditches, and other challenging, publicly managed locations.
Wes Smith
Wildlife Biologist
USDA Wildlife Services
Speaker Bio:
Wes is a Wildlife Biologist with USDA Wildlife Services, a federal agency that provides leadership and assistance in managing conflicts with wildlife. He coordinates Wildlife Services’ Nonlethal Initiative for beaver conflicts throughout Washington state.
Thursday, October 8, 2026
Maple Ballroom
Advancing Water Utility Resilience Through Data-Led Practices
Thursday, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Maple Ballroom
Advancing Water Utility Resilience Through Data-Led Practices
Session Overview:
Water utilities continue to manage increasing demands on aging systems while meeting regulatory, reliability, and sustainability expectations. In 2026, many utilities are strengthening their approach with AI-assisted forecasting, condition data, and spatial analysis to better understand risk and plan ahead. This session explores how proactive maintenance, lifecycle planning, and improved system visibility support reliable service today while preparing for future challenges. Real-world stories will show how utilities are improving resiliency, reducing disruptions, and making more informed infrastructure decisions.
Session Objectives:
- Discover strategies for improving reliability and reducing unplanned outages.
- Identify how analytical and spatial tools support proactive system planning.
- Explore best practices for managing assets across their full lifecycle.
- Understand how data-driven approaches support regulatory and sustainability goals.
Krista Waski
Solutions Engineer
OpenGov
Speaker Bio:
Krista Waski, a Solutions Engineer at OpenGov, brings experience helping local governments transform complex data into actionable insights — spanning infrastructure mapping, trend visualization, and decision-support tools — all in service of streamlining processes and driving data-informed decisions.
Her roots as a GIS Analyst supporting municipalities across the Chicagoland area laid the foundation for her passion for public sector data, further shaped by her time supporting GIS & Data Integration efforts at the Chicago Transit Authority. Krista holds a B.A. in Computer Information Systems from Simpson College and an M.S. in GIS from Elmhurst University, and brings both technical expertise and a genuine passion for empowering communities through better data.
Practical AI Workflows for Public Works
Thursday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Maple Ballroom
Practical AI Workflows for Public Works
Session Overview:
See how public works staff can use AI to review plans and reports faster, draft stronger deliverables, and build SQL, Ruby, and Python scripts for tools such as InfoWorks ICM and ArcGIS. Attend for practical methods that improve engineering productivity on work you already do.
Session Objectives:
- Review engineering plans, reports, and technical submittals using AI-assisted extraction, summarization, and comparison workflows.
- Produce reports, comments, summaries, and correspondence using AI-assisted drafting and revision methods.
- Develop and troubleshoot SQL, Ruby, and Python scripts with AI to automate GIS, modeling, and engineering software tasks.
Mike Leonard, PE
Senior Stormwater Engineer
HDR
Speaker Bio:
Mike Leonard, PE is a Senior Stormwater Engineer at HDR in Washington State with over 25 years of experience in construction management, civil engineering, stormwater design, and hydraulic and hydrologic modeling. His work focuses on improving technical workflows for engineering review, reporting, GIS, and modeling applications. He applies automation and AI-assisted scripting to help staff better leverage tools such as InfoWorks ICM, ArcGIS, and related software in engineering practice.
Innovative CDL Training for Public Agencies
Thursday, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Maple Ballroom
Innovative CDL Training for Public Agencies
Session Overview:
The City of College Place partnered with DLTS to implement an innovative in-house CDL training program that certified employees in less than one week. Presenters will review training options, discuss workforce development challenges, and demonstrate how agencies can reduce costs, improve retention, and streamline CDL certification through contracted training solutions.
Session Objectives:
- Identify CDL training solutions available to public agencies in Washington State.
- Evaluate the benefits and limitations of contracted CDL training programs.
- Discuss strategies to reduce training time and improve workforce development outcomes.
Robert McAndrews, MPA
Public Works Director
City of College Place
Speaker Bio:
Robert McAndrews has served as Public Works Director for the City of College Place for five years and has more than 20 years of public works experience across Washington State. His career has included roles ranging from maintenance worker to Chief of Road Operations before becoming a Public Works Director.
Bill Harvey
President
Diversified Logistics Training Solutions dba DLTS
Speaker Bio:
Bill Harvey has served as President of DLTS for the past four years and brings more than 30 years of experience in the transportation industry. His career includes multiple regional management positions with Roadway Express and Yellow-Roadway Corporation. Bill also served as Vice President of Safety for YRC for four years and spent 9 years as President of NIAS, Inc. a workers’ compensation claims auditing company.
Camron Clark
Public Works Foreman
City of College Place
Speaker Bio:
Camron Clark is the Public Works Foreman for the City of College Place, Washington, where he oversees daily field operations for the city’s public works crews. He also serves as Vice President of the City’s Safety Committee, helping promote a strong culture of workplace safety and employee development. Passionate about hands-on learning and workforce development, Camron focuses on building confident, safety-minded commercial drivers. In this session, he shares practical strategies for developing an effective CDL training program that strengthens driver skills, improves safety, and supports long-term success in public works.
Escalating Trauma Risks and Public Works Responders
Thursday, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Maple Ballroom
Escalating Trauma Risks and Public Works Responders
Session Overview:
Public Works employees perform job functions alongside first responders but are not garnered the same consideration regarding mental health resources. It is paramount to recognize the impact of the trauma they experience and formulate ways in which to support employees beyond the scope of resources currently deployed, such as EAP.
Session Objectives:
- Identify the psychological stressors and traumatic events your employees deal with on a recurring basis
- Evaluate the effectiveness of current mental health resources available to your employees
- Discuss ways in which to expand upon the mental health offerings of your jurisdictions
Danielle Axt
Business Services Analyst
City of Tacoma
Speaker Bio:
Danielle is currently employed as a Business Services Analyst in the Public Works Department, Street Operations Division. She is passionate about improving the quality of life for residents and visitors of Tacoma. Danielle’s focus is on providing precise performance metrics and accounting for a robust assortment of programs within Street Operations, including: Residential Overlay Program, ADA Ramp and Hazardous Sidewalk Programs, Alley Grading Program, Residential Pothole Program, small scale and large scale projects for the Arterial Repair Program, Grounds Maintenance Program, Signs and Marking Program, as well as the Asphalt Plant.
Cedar Ballroom
WSDOT Local Programs 101
Thursday, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Cedar Ballroom
WSDOT Local Programs 101
Session Overview:
Session will provide a general overview of WSDOT’s Local Programs and is designed for newer APWA members. Overview will include funding programs, Project Development, Right of Way, Environmental, Safety and its Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP).
Session Objectives:
- Introduce WSDOT Local Programs Engineering Services Team
- Provide a general overview of how Local Programs can support Local Project Delivery
- Identify and discuss emerging issues and their impacts on local project delivery
Kyle McKeon
Engineering Services Manager
WSDOT Local Programs Division
Speaker Bio:
27 years working in various regions and divisions within
Matthew Enders
Technical Services Manager
WSDOT Local Programs
Speaker Bio:
Matthew Enders works in the Local Programs division of the Washington State Department of Transportation. Within that division he manages the safety program for local agencies in Washington State, including managing the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program. Matthew also oversees the traffic engineering unit and is the director of the Washington State Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) Center.
Michelle Newlean
Local Programs Right of Way Manager
WSDOT Local Programs
Speaker Bio:
Michelle has worked at WSDOT in right of way for 28 years. She has worked in Local Programs for the past eight years.
Michele L Britton, PE
Assistant State Local Programs Engineer
Local Programs
Speaker Bio:
Michele Britton is the Assistant State Local Programs Engineer. She graduated from Saint Martins’ College in 1990 and has been with WSDOT for 36 years. She has held a variety of positions focused on both design and construction projects including the State Specification Engineer at WSDOT Headquarters Construction.
Melanie Vance
Environmental Policy Manager
WSDOT Local Programs
Speaker Bio:
Melanie Vance has over 20 years of experience at both the local and state level with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance on transportation projects. She started her career at Spokane County Engineering and Roads, then worked in the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Eastern Region office. She currently manages the Environmental Program for WSDOT Local Programs, assisting local agencies with NEPA on their federally-funded transportation projects.
Wastewater Reuse Systems at a CSO Facility
Thursday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Cedar Ballroom
Wastewater Reuse Systems at a CSO Facility
Session Overview:
Portland BES is replacing an underperforming reuse system with an 8-MGD Class A recycled water system to reduce reliance on groundwater and potable water. Attend this session to hear how alternatives evaluation, historical data analysis, retrofit design, and operational planning informed a practical, maintainable reuse upgrade at a major wastewater facility.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate treatment technology alternatives using criteria such as capital cost, lifecycle cost, maintenance requirements, operational simplicity, SCADA integration, and ability to handle variable influent solids.
- Identify design considerations for upgrading aging reuse infrastructure, including hydraulic capacity, water quality requirements, disinfection, existing structure reuse, and integration with plant water systems.
- Discuss operational strategies for maintaining reliable recycled water production during high-turbidity events, equipment maintenance, system shutdowns, and supplemental groundwater use.
Jesse Fields, PE
Project Manager
Tetra Tech
Speaker Bio:
Jesse Fields, PE, is a civil/environmental engineer with 11 years of experience supporting public infrastructure projects from planning and alternatives evaluation through design and construction. His background includes water, wastewater, stormwater, pump station, reservoir, and pipeline projects for municipal and public agency clients. He focuses on practical, cost-effective solutions that integrate technical analysis, constructability, operations input, and field implementation.
Reimagining Spokane River Stewardship
Thursday, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Cedar Ballroom
Reimagining Spokane River Stewardship
Session Overview:
Can protecting public assets begin with access? This session explores how planning, parks, public works, engineering, environmental professionals, and private partners can collaborate to enhance stewardship through integrated projects. Using Spokane’s Integrated Clean Water Plan, attendees will learn how cross-departmental partnerships can improve infrastructure, environmental outcomes, public access, and community benefits.
Session Objectives:
- Compare traditional and emerging approaches to natural resource protection
- Analyze cross-sector collaboration between public, private, and planning entities
- Apply environmentally conscious design principles to balance use, access, and protection
Hilary Hahn
Environmental Planner and Ecologist
Facet
Speaker Bio:
Hilary Hahn is an environmental planner and ecologist with 13 years of experience supporting environmental review, permitting, and planning projects throughout Washington. Her work includes public access planning, biological site assessments, critical areas reports, shoreline analyses, mitigation planning, agency permitting and coordination, and long-range planning efforts. Hilary has also contributed to Shoreline Master Program (SMP) implementation and permit compliance monitoring, delivering practical, permit-ready solutions that effectively balance project objectives with environmental and regulatory requirements.
Rick Romero
Retired City of Spokane Utilities Director
Better Government Spokane
Speaker Bio:
Rick Romero is the former Director of Utilities and Strategic Planning for the City of Spokane, where he led the development of the nation’s first Integrated Clean Water Plan that transformed the city’s approach to river health and saved $150 million from what had been a $450 million cleanup mandate. He continues to work on coordinated plans with the city and other stakeholders along the Spokane River corridor.
Garrett Jones
City of Spokane Parks Director
City of Spokane
Speaker Bio:
Garrett Jones helped launch and advocate for the voter approved Together Spokane initiative, a $200 million Spokane Public Schools bond and a $240 million Parks & Recreation levy — aimed at maximizing efficiency and leveraging shared resources to accomplish more than 200 projects throughout the Spokane community.
Main Streets as Social Infrastructure
Thursday, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Cedar Room
Main Streets as Social Infrastructure
Session Overview:
When aging infrastructure makes reconstruction necessary, Main Streets offer a chance to rethink what communities need from their public realm. Using Snohomish’s First Street, this session explores curbless design, tactile cues, storefront access, drainage, and flexible operations that make streets safer, more accessible, adaptable, and socially useful.
Session Objectives:
- Identify aging infrastructure and accessibility barriers that limit how historic Main Streets function as public places.
- Evaluate curbless street strategies – including tactile paving, valley gutters, bollards, ADA parking, and material zones – that improve access to storefronts and daily public life.
- Develop flexible right-of-way approaches that support mobility, drainage, deliveries, emergency access, parking, festivals, and temporary street closures.
James Brackenhoff, RA OR
Principal and Co-Founder
First Forty Feet
Speaker Bio:
James Brackenhoff is a Principal and Co-Founder of First Forty Feet, an urban design and interdisciplinary firm focused on public realm, downtown revitalization, and implementable civic projects. His work helps cities transform streets, plazas, and civic spaces into accessible, active, and enduring public places. He has led plans and designs for downtowns, main streets, civic plazas, and streetscapes across Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and the West Coast.
Meeting Room 1
Unlocking Transportation and Stormwater Funding in Washington
Thursday, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Meeting Room 1
Unlocking Transportation and Stormwater Funding in Washington
Session Overview:
Securing funding for transportation and stormwater projects in Washington requires navigating a mix of federal, state, and local programs. This training presents a framework to identify, evaluate, and align funding with project needs. Attendees will gain strategies to improve competitiveness, coordinate funding packages, and advance projects from concept to construction.
Session Objectives:
- Identify key funding agencies (Both State & Federal) that can help to fund their projects
- Evaluate their project eligibility, timing, and competitiveness to align projects with appropriate funding opportunities
- Develop strategies to bundle and sequence funding sources to successfully deliver transportation and stormwater projects.
Scott Linja, PE
Clarkston Office Manager
Keller Associates, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Scott is an Office Manager for Keller Associates based out of Clarkston, WA, bringing over 12 years of experience supporting transportation and stormwater project delivery. He has extensive experience working with municipalities and state/federal agencies to secure and manage funding for transportation and stormwater projects, successfully bringing projects all the way from planning to construction. Scott specializes in helping local agencies identify and secure funding to complete vital projects within their network.
Gentry Jesson, PE
Project Engineer
Keller Associates, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Gentry is a licensed Project Engineer for Keller Associates based out of Clarkston, WA, bringing over 5 years of experience supporting transportation and stormwater project delivery. He has extensive experience with transportation master planning (including full pavement evaluations, large scale ADA improvements, and Safe Routes to School Safety improvements) and helping agencies identify high-priority projects to help pursue funding. Gentry specializes in helping local agencies set the groundwork for transportation and stormwater and helps them complete these vital projects.
Collaborative Resilience and Sustainability in Transit Projects
Thursday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Meeting Room 1
Collaborative Resilience and Sustainability in Transit Projects
Session Overview:
Early integration of climate change assessment improves cost- and time-efficient delivery on major transit projects while supporting resilient, sustainable outcomes. Sound Transit’s Everett Link Extension Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment (CCVA) demonstrates how early risk identification, multidisciplinary collaboration, prioritizing adaptations at 30% design, and aligning LEED and Envision credits meet multiple requirements through a single coordinated work product.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate: climate risks and prioritize adaptation strategies using structured assessment methods.
- Apply: approaches to integrate cost- and time-efficient adaptations at the 30% design phase.
- Develop: strategies to align LEED and Envision credits with resilience objectives through coordinated deliverables.
Alicia Sabin
Mott MacDonald
Speaker Bio:
Washington Climate Planning Insights for Public Works
Thursday, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Meeting Room 1
Washington Climate Planning Insights for Public Works
Session Overview:
Washington’s new climate planning requirements will shape future public works responsibilities across all jurisdictions. This session highlights Spokane’s approach using community input, collaboration, climate risk assessment, greenhouse gas inventory, and multicriteria policy analysis to develop climate policies that will guide upcoming public works investments, operations, and implementation actions.
Session Objectives:
- Identify state climate planning requirements that influence public works
- Evaluate technical climate analyses that support climate policy development
- Develop climate policies that align community input with public works responsibilities
Logan Callen
Environmental Program Manager
City of Spokane
Speaker Bio:
Logan Callen is an environmental program manager in the City of Spokane’s Public Works division. He leads the City’s greenhouse gas inventory program and serves as the technical lead for the city’s climate risk and vulnerability assessment and multicriteria policy analysis that informs climate planning and comprehensive plan policy updates. He also synthesizes environmental, energy, and climate data into clear visualizations and reports that support decision makers.
Planning Charging Infrastructure for Public Fleets
Thursday, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Meeting Room 1
Planning Charging Infrastructure for Public Fleets
Session Overview:
King County Metro and DKS Associates developed a strategic plan to support electrification of approximately 170 non-revenue transit vehicles at Metro’s South Campus. This session will share lessons learned in fleet transition planning, charging infrastructure sizing, addressing electrical constraints, phased implementation, and operational strategies applicable to public agencies of all sizes.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate fleet characteristics and operational requirements that influence charging infrastructure needs.
- Identify strategies for charger implementation phasing charging infrastructure investments while addressing electrical capacity and facility constraints.
- Apply sophisticated approaches to reduce costs and enhance charging operations including shared charging, fast charging, and facility planning concepts to support public agency fleet electrification programs.
Owen Wang
Transportation Engineering Associate
DKS Associates
Speaker Bio:
Owen Wang, PE, is an electrical engineer at DKS Associates who specializes in fleet electrification and EV charging infrastructure planning for public agencies. He supports fleet transition studies by evaluating charging strategies, assessing facility electrical capacity, developing phased implementation plans, and preparing cost estimates for infrastructure deployment. His experience includes coordinating with utilities and agency stakeholders to identify infrastructure needs and develop practical solutions for fleet electrification.
Mike Usen
National Director for Electromobility
DKS Associates
Speaker Bio:
Mike Usen leads the Electromobility practice at DKS Associates, an employee-owned transportation & planning engineering firm with Washington State’s leading fleet electrification practice. Having led fleet electrification plans for dozens of projects deploying hundreds of chargers for thousands of light, medium and heavy-duty EVs, Mike is an industry-recognized thought leader and sought-after presenter on all aspects of the EV charging ecosystem.
Kenneth Young
Capital Projects Planner
King County Metro
Speaker Bio:
Ken Young is a civil engineer and has been working as a Capital Projects Planner for the vehicle electrification for King County Metro for the bus fleet and non-revenue vehicle fleet since 2017. Ken and the Metro team have planned and implemented electric bus charging at two Metro sites and non-revenue fleet charging at six Metro sites and since 2019. Ken’s work ranges from executing consultant planning studies for the larger Metro electric vehicle charging projects to assisting the design team in the developing and implementing projects to meet Metro’s electric vehicle fleet needs.
Meeting Room 2
The New Deal in Eastern Washington
Thursday, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Meeting Room 2
The New Deal in Eastern Washington
Session Overview:
This presentation explores how the Great Depression devastated Spokane and Eastern Washington and how New Deal programs reshaped the region through dams, parks, roads, public buildings, and art. From Grand Coulee Dam to Spokane’s WPA projects, it examines how federal investment transformed the Inland Northwest’s economy, communities, and infrastructure for generations.
Session Objectives:
- Identify the economic and social impacts of the Great Depression on Spokane and Eastern Washington.
- Evaluate how New Deal programs shaped regional infrastructure, public works, and economic recovery.
- Discuss the lasting influence of Depression-era public investments on Eastern Washington communities and transportation systems.
Susann Babaei
Project Manager
SCJ Alliance
Speaker Bio:
Susann Babaei is a Transportation Project Manager at SCJ Alliance and Co-Chair of the History Committee. She leads multidisciplinary transportation projects that emphasize resilient, community-focused infrastructure across Western Washington. Susann combines her technical expertise with a passion for preserving and sharing the stories that shape the region’s engineering legacy.
Andrea Weston-Smart
Senior Marketing Coordinator
SCJ Alliance
Speaker Bio:
By day, Andrea Weston-Smart is a Senior Marketing Coordinator with SCJ Alliance, helping tell the stories behind community-shaping projects across the Pacific Northwest. By night, she’s active in community theatre, where she brings stories (and history) to life on stage. Whether researching the past for a proposal or rehearsing a piece for the stage, Andrea believes great storytelling can make history memorable.
Daniel Wright
Project Engineer
HNTB
Speaker Bio:
Dan lives in Oregon where he enjoys hiking, gardening, and road trips. He currently works on projects in Washington, Utah, Louisiana and North Carolina as a hydraulic Engineer and enjoys learning the history of the places his projects are located in.
Specifications 101
Thursday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Meeting Room 2
Specifications 101
Session Overview:
Sponsored by the APWA Construction Standards Committee, this session introduces professionals to the fundamentals of specifications. Learn how/why APWA and WSDOT GSPs support local agency projects, key spec components, common pitfalls, and best practices for ensuring specifications support project intent, manage risk, and minimize issues in construction.
Session Objectives:
- Identify the core anatomy of a well-structured specification and how each component contributes to a complete, organized, and enforceable contract package.
- Develop a foundational understanding of APWA/WSDOT GSPs and Project Special Provisions and their role in local agency projects.
- Apply best practices for writing and reviewing specifications to minimize errors and reduce construction-phase issues.
Nicole Brockwell
Engineering Services Manager
City of Wenatchee
Speaker Bio:
Nicole is the engineering services manager for the City of Wenatchee. With experience across both public and private sectors, Nicole has led cross-functional teams on a variety of transportation and infrastructure projects while securing grant funding and cultivating strong stakeholder partnerships. As the current vice chair for the APWA Construction Standards Committee, Nicole is passionate about workforce development and contributing to the advancement of local agency standards.
Kyle Potuzak
Design Engineering Manager
City of Bellevue
Speaker Bio:
Kyle is a native of Washington State with over 20 years of public works experience. He currently serves as an engineering manager with the City of Bellevue, leading teams that design and manage transportation capital projects.
Sam Therress
Technical Resource Supervisor
Snohomish County
Speaker Bio:
With 25 years of experience, Sam leads a team that handles contract provisions, County Engineer records, division IT and plan reviews ensuring efficient and reliable service across the Public Works Department.
Transforming Heritage Park Through Partnership and Placemaking
Thursday, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Meeting Room 2
Transforming Heritage Park Through Partnership and Placemaking
Session Overview:
The panel will focus on the planning, design, and implementation of Sumner’s Town Center Plan. Attendees will learn about partnerships with the University, city departments, and consultants that shaped a vision and implementation strategy in under 5 years. Panelists will review the transformation of Heritage Park and Hops Alley into a woonerf, gathering spaces, and events center.
Session Objectives:
- Develop partnerships between public works and parks departments.
- Discuss the results of scheduling your project through the Pull-Planning process, gaining commitment to meet timelines with a non-flexible end date on construction documentation, permitting, and implementation.
- Prepare for challenges in major infrastructure projects in historic downtown districts.
Todd Bronk (moderator)
Principal Landscape Architect
JETT Landscape Architecture + Design
Speaker Bio:
Todd is Principal with JETT Landscape Architecture and leads the planning and design studio for the Pacific Northwest region. His collaborative design and management styles enable him to coordinate an efficient design and construction process while maintaining the project’s vision, scope, and budget. Todd led the JETT team and City of Sumner through public outreach, design, and implementation for Heritage Park, the new Events Center, and Hops Alley.
Drew Mayo, CACM
Assistant Engineering Manager
City of Sumner
Speaker Bio:
Drew McCarty is an Assistant Engineering Manager for the City of Sumner and served as the City’s Project Manager for the Heritage Park redevelopment project. She helps manage the planning, design, and construction of public infrastructure projects, coordinating with consultants, contractors, utility providers, and community stakeholders. Her experience includes navigating complex construction challenges while balancing project budgets, schedules, and community priorities.
Derek Barry
Assistant Public Operations Director
City of Sumner
Speaker Bio:
Derek is the Assistant Director for the City of Sumner’s Public Operations Department. With serving 23+ years in Sumner, he has helped lead organizational changes while working in the Finance, Police, Public Works, Community Development and Operations Departments. He enjoys finding creative solutions through relationship building and collaboration.
Ryan Windish
Community and Economic Development Director
City of Sumner
Speaker Bio:
Ryan Windish is the Community & Economic Development Director for the City of Sumner where he has worked for 28 years. His focus has been on comprehensive planning, land use policy, economic development, parks and special projects. His latest projects center around affordable housing, reestablishing local transit connections to Sumner, and parks planning.
Owner Leadership in Alternative Delivery Success
Thursday, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Meeting Room 2
Owner Leadership in Alternative Delivery Success
Session Overview:
Success in alternative delivery is determined long before construction begins. This session explores habits of effective owners across PDB, DB, and GC/CM, highlighting leadership’s role in shaping outcomes. Attendees will gain practical strategies to assess readiness, strengthen decision-making, and prepare their organization for more predictable, successful project delivery.
Session Objectives:
- Identify leadership practices that distinguish effective owners in alternative delivery
- Evaluate organizational readiness across people, processes, and governance
- Apply strategies to strengthen execution and improve project outcomes
Stacy Shewell
Sr. Director
Turner & Townsend Heery
Speaker Bio:
Stacy Shewell is an Owner Advisor with over 15 years of experience supporting alternative delivery, specializing in progressive design-build. Stacy has supported more than 35 alternative delivery projects totaling over $2 billion, including guiding many first-time owners through procurement and execution. Stacy focuses on strengthening owner leadership and readiness to deliver more predictable, high performing project outcomes.
Kyle Twohig
Sr. Director of Public Works
Spokane County
Speaker Bio:
Kyle Twohig serves as Sr. Director of Public Works for Spokane County, bringing extensive experience in construction, development, and public infrastructure delivery. He has led a wide range of capital projects utilizing alternative delivery methods, including design-build, progressive design-build, Heavy Civil GC/CM, and GC/CM, and has been instrumental in advancing their use across Eastern Washington. Kyle previously served on the Washington State Capital Projects Advisory Review Board (CPARB) Project Review Committee (PRC), representing owner perspectives and supporting best practices in public project delivery.
David Beaudine
Vice President
Turner & Townsend Heery
Speaker Bio:
David Beaudine is an Owner Advisor based in Spokane, WA with over 20 years of experience in public sector construction, specializing in alternative delivery methods. David has managed, overseen, or advised on more than 60 alternative delivery projects across K–12, justice, healthcare, and municipal sectors, bringing a broad, statewide perspective. David focuses on guiding owners through procurement and execution to deliver successful, well-aligned project outcomes.
Meeting Room 3
Mentorship: Blueprints for a Thriving Workforce
Thursday, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Meeting Room 3
Mentorship: Blueprints for a Thriving Workforce
Session Overview:
Knowledge transfer through mentorship is essential to workforce retention and succession. Through mentorship, staff grow as they seek advice, learn from trusted peers and gain confidence through constructive feedback. Panelists will share candid insights on the value of mentorship, navigating common challenges, and cultivating authentic and mutually beneficial relationships.
Session Objectives:
- Explore how intentional, value based mentorship can strengthen careers, build community, and support emerging leaders across disciplines and career pathways.
- Identify practical strategies and key competencies for creating and sustaining meaningful mentor–mentee relationships, whether formal or informal.
- Gain insight on useful tools and resources used by mentors and mentees to facilitate effective conversations, provide constructive feedback and develop SMART goals.
Caroline Barlow (Moderator)
Capacity, Management, Operations and Maintenance Manager
Seattle Public Utilities
Speaker Bio:
With 25 years of experience in the municipal utility industry, Caroline currently serves as the Capacity, Management, Operations and Maintenance Program Manager for Seattle Public Utilities’ Drainage and Wastewater Line of Business. She leads a dynamic team that conducts asset management, establishes programmatic and planning strategies, and delivers over $50M in annual capital investments to rehab drainage and wastewater infrastructure. Caroline currently serves as the APWA Washington Chapter Vice President, participates in the Chapter’s’ Mentorship Committee and helped establish the Chapter’s Emerging Professionals Committee.
Robert McAndrews
Public Works Director
City of College Place
Speaker Bio:
Starting his career as a Maintenance Technician at the City of Shoreline and currently serving as the Public Works Director for City of College Place, Robert McAndrews has developed a career with over 20 years of experience dedicated to public works. Robert values learning and continuous improvement and demonstrates this by receiving his Masters in Public Administration (MPA), achieving a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, and completing Northwest Public Works Institute certification program. Robert currently serves on the APWA Washington Chapter Board, co-chairs the Snow Conference Planning Committee and serving as an advisor to enhance and ensure the sustainability of the Northwest Public Works Institute.
Alyssa Ardourel, PE
Civil Engineer, Vice President
Huitt-Zollars, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Alyssa Ardourel, PE has 12 years of experience in consulting, performing roles in civil engineering design, project management, and construction administration. Alyssa serves as Vice President and Managing Principal at Huitt-Zollars, Inc. leading public works and transportation practices in the Puget Sound Region. Alyssa is currently serving as the APWA Washington Chapter Mentorship Committee Chair and is a past chair of Chapter’s Emerging Professionals Committee.
Kim Klinkers, PE
Senior Engineer
City of Monroe
Speaker Bio:
With 20 years of experience in municipal and transportation engineering, Kim recently participated in the Washington Chapter’s Mentorship program. She serves as a Senior Engineering for the City of Monroe, managing capital improvement projects from planning, funding, design and construction. Kim completed the APWA Northwest Public Works Institute Program in 2022, served as an instructor for this program in 2024, currently serves on the APWA Washington Chapter Board serving as an advisor to enhance and ensure the sustainability of the Northwest Public Works Institute.
Assertive Leadership: Avoiding Aggressive Behavior
Thursday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Meeting Room 3
Assertive Leadership: Avoiding Aggressive Behavior
Session Overview:
It is essential to avoid the pitfall of being labelled aggressive as you develop leadership skills while advancing in your career. This session will provide practical examples and skills to better understand how you can grow into the role of an assertive leader in your workplace.
Session Objectives:
- Recognize the habits and characteristics that have the potential to impact our growth as leaders.
- Develop the skills needed to counter negativity and the traditional boundaries of effective leadership.
- Implement new behaviors and begin practicing a new approach today.
Letticia Neal, PE
County Engineer
Pierce County
Speaker Bio:
Letticia Neal is a licensed Professional Engineer and dedicated County Engineer with more than 20 years of experience directing complex public infrastructure initiatives, including roadway, bridge, and stormwater systems. She excels at managing multi-million-dollar budgets, leading cross-functional teams, and navigating federal, state, and local regulations to deliver projects on time and within scope. Known for proactive stakeholder engagement, Letticia specializes in optimizing workflows and mitigating risks to ensure high-quality, sustainable projects for the community.
Jadene Kearney
Project Controls Business Manager
HNTB
Speaker Bio:
Jadene Kearney is a Construction Management professional with extensive experience in alternative project delivery, specializing in design-build and progressive design-build projects. She is recognized for driving collaboration across integrated teams to successfully deliver complex infrastructure and vertical construction projects. Her expertise includes business management, quality and risk management, project controls, key performance indicators, and strategic staffing plans, with a strong ability to work effectively across all levels of project teams.
Barbara Moffat, PE
Vice President, Puget Sound Region Transportation Market Leader
David Evans and Associates, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Barbara Moffat has over 40 years of professional experience in the A&E industry and currently oversees business development for DEA throughout the Pacific Northwest. Barbara provides executive oversight and leadership for complex bridge and transportation projects with the construction value of her last 10 mega projects at more than $9 billion, bringing expertise in alternatives analysis, risk management and constructability while communicating highly technical concepts to decision-makers, policy groups and the public.
Creating Psychologically Safe Teams for Better Performance
Thursday, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Meeting Room 3
Creating Psychologically Safe Teams for Better Performance
Session Overview:
When employees feel safe to speak up, ask questions, share ideas, and admit mistakes, teams perform better. This session explores practical leadership strategies for creating psychological safety across field crews, operations teams, and office environments while maintaining accountability and high standards. Attendees will leave with tools they can immediately apply.
Session Objectives:
- Define the key components of psychological safety and their relationship to team performance.
- Identify leadership behaviors that influence employees’ willingness to raise concerns, share ideas, and report mistakes.
- Evaluate leadership practices that promote psychological safety while maintaining accountability and high standards.
Ethan Nash
CEO & Organizational Development Consultant
Nash Consulting
Speaker Bio:
Ethan Nash is CEO of Nash Consulting and partners with leaders and teams to build healthy, high-performing cultures. He specializes in leadership development and team effectiveness, blending practical tools and processes with a human-centered approach that helps people strengthen relationships and perform at their best. Ethan is a frequent facilitator and executive coach throughout the Pacific Northwest, with a particular focus on public agencies and utilities.
Navigating the Human Realities of Public Works Leadership
Thursday, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Meeting Room 3
Navigating the Human Realities of Public Works Leadership
Session Overview:
Public works managers are trained to handle infrastructure crises, yet the most daunting challenges often involve unpredictable human behavior rather than mechanical failure. This presentation explores a series real-life “off-the-manual” scenarios encountered during a 40-year career. Attendees will develop strategies to employ when similar situations arise in their career.
Session Objectives:
- Identify early warning signals for potential unpredictable human behavior in the workplace and community settings;
- Develop an individualized basic toolkit to address and control unpredictable behavior when it occurs; and
- Evaluate your current ability to handle unpredictable behavior.
Gary Schimek
Public Works Director
City of Mountlake Terrace
Speaker Bio:
Mr. Schimek’s career in Public Works has spanned nearly four decades from his first position as a student-intern for the Washington State Department of Natural Resources in 1987 to his current position as Public Works Director for the City of Mountlake Terrace. During his career, Mr. Schimek has been involved in all aspects of Public Works from modeling, planning, and design to project management, portfolio management, and organizational leadership. Mr. Schimek also serves as an appointee of Governor Bob Furgeson on the Washington State Public Works Board.
