Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Hot Topics
9:00am - 10:00am: Build Quest - Making A/E/C Fun
Room – Hemlock/Oak
Wednesday, April 15th, 9:00 AM -10:00 AM
Build Quest – Making A/E/C Fun
Session Overview:
Build Quest is a first-of-its kind AEC game introducing our world to a wide audience – young and old. Come learn to play and help us brainstorm ideas for using this or other techniques for improving awareness of what it takes to make public works work – a team of varied experts from all disciplines.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate the usefulness of Build Quest in bringing awareness of the AEC world to an unreached and varied audience
- Identify different avenues for using Build Quest in outreach campaigns by APWA and the AEC world
- Discuss what other opportunities there are for greater awareness of APWA and our varied AEC
Charles Smith
Civil Engineering Group Director
Reid Middleton
Speaker Bio:
Charles has 22 years of experience in public works engineering. He has helped develop a variety of municipal transportation projects from the initial planning stages through construction. Charles has provided design, construction management, and inspection services for transportation projects, including roadway design and construction, steel and concrete structures, drainage, grading, excavation, embankments, signals and illumination, signing, electrical, channelization, paving, demolition, and landscaping.
Alain Calle
Visual Communications Manager
Reid Middleton
Speaker Bio:
An award-winning graphic designer with a multitude of skills, Alain Calle’s experience ranges from creating simple graphics for design reports to overseeing all graphics for large-scale public involvement campaigns and corporate marketing efforts. Over the past 25 years, he has helped a multitude of clients clarify, prepare, and present their projects to internal clients and the public at large. Experienced, creative, and an expert in his field, Alain is also, but not least importantly, French.
10:15am - 11:15am: Hot Topics - Alternative Project....
Room – Hemlock/Oak
Wednesday, April 15th, 10:15 AM -11:15 AM
Alternative Project Delivery: First Time Agency Perspective
Session Overview:
This session will provide a review of the alternative project delivery (APD) methods available in the State of Washington. Each delivery method will be defined and described. Focus will be on first-time public agency APD users, their lessons learned, risks and opportunities found and the importance of stakeholder engagement.
Session Objectives:
- Review each alternative project delivery (APD) method available and RCW 39.10
- Discuss the pros and cons of each APD as well as method determination
- Identify lessons learned from first time public agency APD users
Jim Dugan
Principal
Parametrix
Speaker Bio:
Jim manages the Tacoma Parametrix office of APD project and construction managers, is in his tenth year as a member of the Washington State Project Review Committee, is a certified teacher of APD for the AGC Education Foundation and has had more than 48 years of direct application of all forms of APD both domestic and international, public and private. Jim brings a current, practical and user-friendly approach to the understanding, planning and execution of APD methods. Regarded as an APD subject matter expert, Jim is frequently asked to educate and prepare first-time public agencies to use one or more forms of APD, with significant emphasis on agency education and preparation, compliance with RCW 39.10 and disciplined implementation.
Bob Gregory, P.E.
Master Plan Project Manager
Cowlitz County Public Facilities District
Speaker Bio:
With more than 45 years of experience with large and small public works projects in his role as City Engineer/Public Works Director in the Cities of Kelso and Longview, Bob additionally provides leadership and planning for funding strategies, large major retail and industrial developments, development of regional airport authorities, development and implementation of comprehensive downtown master plans and redevelopment of multi-modal transportation facilities. Bob is a registered professional engineer in Washington State, past Board member of Washington State Chapter APWA, past Chair of the Lower Columbia College Board of Trustees, past President of Washington State City Engineer’s Association, Lower Columbia College Foundation and Washington City/County Managers Association.
Carol Powers, P.E.
Principal Engineer
Tacoma Water
Speaker Bio:
With more than 39 years’ experience in Project Management, Planning and Engineering, inclusive of 10 years in the civil engineering field, Carol has provided technical and team leadership in the development of the $14 M Pinnacle Ridge Reservoir and Pump Station, $300 M Chambers Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment plant Expansion and is currently leading Tacoma Water’s New Warehouse and Shops project which will be followed by the redevelopment of their current 1939 art-deco warehouse and shops building. A registered Professional Engineer in the State of Washington and with Tacoma Water for the past 11 years, Carol brings a refreshing practical value-based and technically competent approach to the planning and implementation of occupied, essential services projects.
10:15am - 11:15am: Design of Raised Intersections....
Room – Spruce
Wednesday, April 15th, 10:15 AM -11:15 AM
Design of Raised Intersections and Curbless Streets
Session Overview:
Raised intersections and curbless streets are infrastructure improvements that create a more inviting pedestrian-friendly downtown. They enhance pedestrian mobility, simplify ADA facilities, calm traffic speeds, support placemaking for events, and support economic vitality. This presentation identifies the considerations for planning, designing, and constructing these infrastructure improvements highlighted with numerous examples.
Session Objectives:
- Review the reasons and benefits.
- Identify best locations, range of enhancements, and placemaking options.
- Review the engineering considerations during design and construction.
Holly Williams
Senior Project Manager
Psomas
Speaker Bio:
Senior Project Manager and Urban Designer with 23 years’ experience in a range of municipal infrastructure projects. Holly’s passion is creating pedestrian friendly downtowns including main streets, festival streets and plazas. She has planned, designed and constructed these types of projects in Tacoma, Pasco, Lakewood, Kirkland and Puyallup.
Kelsey Anderson
Senior Project Manager
Psomas
Speaker Bio:
Senior Project Manager and Civil Engineer with 11 years’ experience in a range of municipal infrastructure projects. Kelsey’s passion is engineering public infrastructure projects that serve the community. She has planned, designed and constructed these types of projects in Olympia, Issaquah, Renton, and Orcas Island.
1:15pm – 2:15pm
Reimagining the Heights: Building an Equitable Neighborhood
Room – Cedar
Wednesday, April 15th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
Reimagining the Heights: Building an Equitable Neighborhood
Session Overview:
The City of Vancouver is leveraging City-owned land to maximize community benefit for all. This presentation will share project updates and lessons learned from the City’s work highlighting inclusive community engagement, intentional, equitable design and development practices, and infrastructure investment to support private development.
Session Objectives:
- Identify master planning strategies that align agency goals with cost-effective solutions.
- Leverage master planning goals and developer interests to define infrastructure for the future.
- Optimize public assets for community benefit for all.
Dustin Cooley, PE
Heights District – Civil Design Manager
Apex Companies, LLC
Speaker Bio:
Dustin Cooley, a resident of Clark County, serves as a Sr. Project Manager for Apex with 25 years of local transportation engineering experience. He has been working with the City of Vancouver and First Forty Feet over the last five years supporting the Heights District Master Plan, district phasing plan concept designs, and recent final design phases for the Tower Mall Redevelopment Area including the Mill Plain and MacArther Intersection, Mill Plain and Devine Intersection, and initial phase of Loop Road Infrastructure improvements.
Will Grimm, AIA
Heights District – Consultant Project Manager
First Forty Feet
Speaker Bio:
Will Grimm, Principal at First Forty Feet, brings 25 years of experience in urban design, transformative planning, and community engagement. He has worked closely with the City of Vancouver over the past several years, leading key efforts on the Main Street Promise, Fishers Landing Subarea Plan, and The Heights District planning and design phases. His work supports the City’s long-term vision for vibrant, connected, and people-centered neighborhoods, with an emphasis on aligning design, mobility, and community priorities.
Amy Zoltie
Heights District – Program Manager
City of Vancouver
Speaker Bio:
Amy is a Real Estate Project Manager with the City of Vancouver leading the implementation of the Heights District Plan. Prior to joining the City, Amy worked for a private developer in Vancouver managing commercial and multifamily redevelopment projects. Before relocating to the United States in 2017, Amy practiced commercial real estate law in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Port Townsend Holistic Sustainability - People, Planet, Prosperity
Room – Hemlock
Wednesday, April 15th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
Port Townsend Holistic Sustainability – People, Planet, Prosperity
Session Overview:
Port Townsend realizes sustainable transportation starts in the Long-Range Planning department. Through the Comprehensive Plan update, engineers not only worked with planners to develop an attainable active transportation plan, but also planned for holistic sustainability, in housing, growth, and fiscal sustainability to better maintain a historically declining transportation system.
Session Objectives:
- Identify effective coordination with Long-Range Planning for shifts in holistic sustainability.
- Discuss low-cost active transportation elements and how the street system dictates urban form and sustainability.
- Review the city’s plan to reduce street miles while increasing density and funding
Jeff Kostechka
Assistant City Engineer
City of Port Townsend
Speaker Bio:
Jeff is the APWA Environmental & Sustainability Co-Chair and has 17 years of engineering experience. His passion for incremental, practical design was applied into the City’s Active Transportation Plan to “right size” solutions. Jeff takes a step back and considers how each project and policy affects holistic sustainability – People, Planet and Prosperity, to build a stronger and more resilient community.
Steve King
Public Works Director
City of Port Townsend
Speaker Bio:
Steve has nearly 30 years of cross discipline experience ranging from city engineering to planning and building to economic development. Steve successfully applied sustainability principles for over 17 years in Wenatchee and most recently, the last 5 years in Port Townsend. Steve focuses on community building based on the principle that finding the symbiotic relationship between business, housing, and government results in a fiscally and socially sustainable community.
WSDOT/APWA Specifications Update – Divisions 1 and 2
Room – Oak
Wednesday, April 15th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
WSDOT/APWA Specifications Update – Divisions 1 and 2
Session Overview:
This session will cover recent changes affecting the administration of construction contracts, including shifts in DBE and apprenticeship requirements and adjustments made to the organization of the Standard Specifications.
Session Objectives:
- Discuss current updates to Divisions 1 and 2 of the WSDOT/APWA Standard Specifications
- Identify changes made to address recent developments in DBE and apprenticeship requirements
- Evaluate resources to keep current on construction administration topics
Diane Sheesley, PE
Director South Sound Design
Perteet, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
A graduate of Washington State University, Diane has worked in the industry for over 25 years at local agencies and consulting in design and construction of local agency projects throughout her career. She has been a part of the Construction Specifications Committee for 17 years.
Michele Britton, PE
Assistant State Local Program Engineer
WSDOT Local Programs
Speaker Bio:
Michele has been with WSDOT for 35 years after graduating from Saint Martins’ College. She has held a variety of positions focused on both design and construction including State Specification Engineer at WSDOT Headquarters Construction.
Sam Therres, PE
Tech. Resources Supervisor
Snohomish County Public Works
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.
Leveraging Local Benefits from Regional Mega Projects
Room – Spruce
Wednesday, April 15th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
Leveraging Local Benefits from Regional Mega Projects
Session Overview:
This session aims to explore the ways public works can leverage regional mega project investments to help or assist in achieving local project objectives, particularly focusing on multimodal connectivity, environmental considerations, grant writing, and inter-agency coordination.
Session Objectives:
- Identify key strategies for leveraging regional mega project investments to achieve public works community project objectives, including transportation, environmental, utility, and intergovernmental considerations.
- Discuss the processes for effective coordination, strategically timed communications between multiple agencies such as WSDOT, ODOT, and Cities.
- Explore the benefits of partnering with local and regional stakeholders to optimize the regional and local success of mega projects using examples from highway, rail, transit, and aviation sectors.
Patrick Sweeney
Senor Transportation Planner
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Patrick has been working on regional and local agency projects for over 25 years. His background includes more than two decades as a consultant and public-sector project manager working on multimodal transportation planning, infrastructure, and urban design projects. Patrick’s experience includes multimodal system planning, corridor and transit station urban design, and capital project management across the US.
Peter Meyerhofer Vancouver
Transit Project Manager
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Peter has 24 years of engineering experience primarily focused on planning and design for transportation facilities, including transit operations, multimodal design and circulation, site civil design, construction phasing, agency and stakeholder coordination, utility design, permitting, and construction cost estimating. He has specialized experience in alternative delivery for large federally funded projects and programs.
Steve Witter
IBR Project Director
C-Tran
Speaker Bio:
Steve serves as the IBR Program’s Deputy Assistant Program Administrator for transit. He helps guide the Program’s transition from planning to implementation with a focus on design, funding and community collaboration to deliver a modern, multimodal bridge that serves people across Oregon and Washington. For more than two decades, Steve has helped shape the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area’s transit and transportation landscape, leading major projects that improve mobility and strengthen the region’s future.
Katherine Kelly
Senior Policy Advisor
City of Vancouver
Speaker Bio:
Katherine is a Policy and Program Manager for the City of Vancouver, WA, and assists City Department leaders and the City Manager’s office navigate complex intergovernmental relationships on local and regional multimodal transportation initiatives. Skilled in policy analysis, transportation and land use planning, sustainability, government, and urban planning, Katherine’s career has been dedicated to transportation project and program management with a demonstrated history of successful outcomes in government administrations.
3:00pm – 4:00pm
Supervisor Roundtable Q & A
Room – Cedar
Wednesday, April 15th, 3:00 PM -4:00 PM
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)
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.
Kelly Kussman
Fleet Services Manager
Walla Walla County Public Works
Speaker Bio:
Fleet Services Manager for Walla Walla County, WA. Public Works. Currently responsible for the overall leadership of 7 employees, inside a fleet maintenance and repair facility. I’ve been a public fleet manager for over 20 years.
My supervision and management career started in the spring of 2005 with the City of Issaquah, WA. as a then, interim fleet manager. Having gained knowledge and broad experiences within the same discipline in a variety of roles has better prepared me to understand the challenges of staff that I now oversee and lead.
Patrick Zellner
Supervisor (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.
This versatile path has given me a wide perspective on how “we” can improve by combining our knowledge, skills, and disciplines. I have dedicated myself to professional growth and mentoring others as a road builder and innovator, always trying to lead and guide with logic and common sense. Being a part of APWA O&M has been a true blessing and an honor.
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 Chehalis for 2.5 years I worked for Thurston county for 18 years. My Start in public sector work was with WADOT 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.
Collaborative Alternative Delivery Opportunities and Challenges
Room – Hemlock
Wednesday, April 15th, 3:00 PM -4:00 PM
Collaborative Alternative Delivery Opportunities and Challenges
Session Overview:
Explore the benefits of Progressive Design-Build and CM/GC delivery models through the perspectives of the client, consultant, and contractor. This panel offers insight into the opportunities and challenges each faces throughout project development—from inception and procurement to execution and turnover—highlighting collaboration, innovation, and successful project outcomes.
Session Objectives:
- Discuss the opportunities, challenges, and key success factors associated with collaborative delivery methods, including General Contractor/Construction Manager (GC/CM) and Progressive Design-Build (PDB).
- Explore project delivery from the distinct perspectives of the client/owner, consultant (engineer or owner’s representative), and general contractor/construction manager to identify shared goals and differing priorities.
- Develop practical tools and performance metrics applicable throughout the project life cycle—from development and procurement to execution and turnover—to enhance collaboration, transparency, and project outcomes.
Ken Kubacki
Vice President Northwest Region Manager
Sundt Construction Inc
Speaker Bio:
Ken Kubacki serves as Vice President and Northwest Regional Manager for the Transportation Group at Sundt Construction, Inc., bringing over 30 years of construction expertise and leadership. He specializes in alternative delivery methods and has driven the pursuit and execution of more than $1.5 billion in design-build and CM/GC projects. An active industry advocate, Ken holds a leadership role with the Associated General Contractors of America and champions team-building, innovation, and client value in infrastructure delivery.
Gavin Oien
Oregon Transportation Business Unit Market Leader
David Evans and Associates
Speaker Bio:
Gavin is a Senior Vice President with more than 30 years of engineering experience in the Northwest. He is the Market Leader for the Transportation Business Unit in Oregon for David Evans and Associates, Inc. focused on business development and managing projects for clients in Oregon and SW Washington.
Monica Blanchard
Oregon and SW Washington Construction Management Business Lead
WSP
Speaker Bio:
Monica is a vice president and business lead with over 17 years of experience in design and construction management. She has managed transportation, maritime, and heavy civil projects for local, state, and federal agencies, serving in leadership roles as a contractor, public agency representative, and consultant. Recognized for her ability to lead diverse teams, Monica takes a pragmatic approach to guiding projects through all phases of delivery, driving alignment on goals, scope, schedule, budget, quality, and risk management.
Megan Channell
Director of Capital Development and Planning
Port of Hood River
Speaker Bio:
Megan Channell leads waterfront management and planning for the Port of Hood River, overseeing operations, development, and community engagement along a key regional economic corridor. With 18 years of experience in multimodal transportation and complex project delivery, she is known for advancing collaboration, innovative delivery methods, and workforce development. Megan brings a people-centered, community-focused approach that promotes equitable infrastructure and long-term stewardship of public assets.
Communicating Technical Information to Non-Technical Audiences
Room – Oak
Wednesday, April 15th, 3:00 PM -4:00 PM
Communicating Technical Information to Non-Technical Audiences
Session Overview:
Enhance your ability to communicate technical information to non-technical audiences. This session offers practical tools and strategies crucial to effectively engage the community and stakeholders, facilitating successful project outcomes. Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your public engagement and collaboration skills.
Session Objectives:
- Identify strategies for effectively communicating complex technical information to non-technical audiences.
- Discuss strategies for partnering with technical partners to communicate complex information.
- Review successful project examples where complex information was clearly communicated, highlighting best practices and lessons learned.
Amalia Andrews
Strategic Communications and Outreach
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Amalia brings over 25 years of expertise in strategic communication, stakeholder relations, and event management within the AEC industry. Her work is grounded in a community-first approach, excelling at developing outreach strategies that are clear, inclusive, and culturally sensitive. Her ability to explain technical processes in approachable terms helps residents understand their options and feel confident in their participation.
Deanna Martin, PE
Water/Wastewater Engineer
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Deanna is a project manager and water/wastewater engineer with 24 years of experience delivering infrastructure improvements projects. She is experienced with local, state, and federal funding sources and requirements, as well as permitting for utility districts within Washington state. She brings a positive energy and enthusiasm to her projects, deftly communicating technical elements to the public and building long-term relationships with local agencies.
Jordan King
Strategic Communications and Outreach
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Jordan has 18 years of experience creating and marketing communication messages for public and internal purposes. He builds relationships with community members on behalf of clients and is adept at finding solutions to sensitive public concerns that correlate with his client’s goals. Jordan’s ability to use multiple platforms to communicate allows him to ensure the message is clear and reaches the right
Meiling Sproger
Marketing Coordinator
Kimley-Horn
Speaker Bio:
Meiling is a marketing coordinator with more than 5 years of experience in the AEC industry. She specializes in preparing proposals for public-sector clients in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Colorado. She also supports brand collateral development, presentations, interviews, and technical writing deliverables.
Asset Management as Culture Change, Not Software
Room – Spruce
Wednesday, April 15th, 3:00 PM -4:00 PM
Asset Management as Culture Change, Not Software
Session Overview:
Redmond is implementing a top-performing asset management system across a $4 billion infrastructure portfolio—not as software deployment, but as continuous organizational commitment. Learn how undertaking APWA accreditation, benchmarking leading programs, and establishing executive-level governance enabled whole-of-government adoption while navigating political challenges when transparency reveals funding realities.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate governance structures that embed asset management into CIP, budgeting, and executive decision-making without creating bureaucratic bottlenecks.
- Identify organizational resistance patterns as feedback signals and apply strategies to navigate political challenges when transparency reveals infrastructure funding gaps.
- Develop implementation approaches that scale asset management from departmental initiatives to enterprise-wide systems with structural durability beyond individual champions.
Brandon R. Buehler
Asset Performance Manager
City of Redmond: Public Works
Speaker Bio:
Brandon R. Buehler serves as the Asset Performance Manager for the City of Redmond Public Works, where he leads the design and implementation of the City’s Municipal Asset Management Policy across a $4 billion infrastructure portfolio. He focuses on embedding ISO 55000–aligned asset management principles into governance systems and transforming reactive maintenance cultures into proactive, data-informed learning organizations. Before joining the City of Redmond, Brandon managed global infrastructure capacity delivery at Amazon Web Services and served as a U.S. Army Engineer Officer, experiences that shaped his systems-oriented approach to managing public infrastructure.
Aaron Bert
Director
City of Redmond: Public Works
Speaker Bio:
Aaron Bert, MPA, is the Public Works Director for the City of Redmond, Washington, with over 26 years of local and state government experience spanning environmental programs, facilities management, municipal finance, and emergency management. A retired U.S. Army Colonel with four overseas deployments, he applies strategic leadership and operational discipline to strengthen organizational resilience and improve public service delivery. As the executive sponsor of Redmond’s APWA Accreditation and asset management initiatives, he champions a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and transparency, ensuring long-term infrastructure sustainability.
Watershed Planning Case Study – Point Roberts, WA
Room – Pine
Wednesday, April 15th , 3:00 PM -4:00 PM
Watershed Planning Case Study – Point Roberts, WA
Session Overview:
Point Roberts is a peninsula in the northwestern corner of Whatcom County, Washington with unique and complex stormwater challenges including ocean tides, the USA / Canada border, and climate change. This presentation will review select stormwater problems, public engagement, and analytic methods used to identify and prioritize stormwater solutions.
Session Objectives:
- Review unique stormwater challenges in Point Roberts
- Identify appropriate analytic methods for watershed planning
- Discuss incorporating climate resiliency into capital project prioritization
Alex Buescher, PE
Civil Engineer
Tetra Tech
Speaker Bio:
Alex is a civil engineer with 10 years of experience in stormwater planning, hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, fish passage design, habitat restoration, and PS&E development. Alex holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Seattle University and an M.Eng. in Water Resources Engineering from Portland State University. He lives in Portland with his partner and their two solar-powered cats.
4:10pm – 5:10pm
Partnering for Progress: The Main Street Promise
Room – Cedar
Wednesday, April 15th, 4:10 PM -5:10 PM
Partnering for Progress: The Main Street Promise
Session Overview:
The Main Street Promise project showcases how partnerships, collaboration, adaptive design, and thoughtful construction sequencing can revitalize a community corridor. Attendees will gain insights into effective business engagement, design flexibility, and coordination strategies that balance efficiency and sensitivity, offering practical lessons for managing multifaced, community-centered infrastructure projects.
Session Objectives:
- Strengthening Community Partnerships During Construction – Learn how intentional collaboration with local businesses and public involvement teams helped sustain community engagement throughout construction. We’ll share metrics from participation events like “coffee corners,” discuss strategies for supporting businesses post-construction, and explore lessons for maintaining positive public sentiment during disruptive infrastructure projects.
- Parking and Design Adaptations for an Active Construction Corridor – Understand how adaptive design and traffic management strategies minimized parking disruptions during construction and pivoted the design to address site conditions and new ideas. Topics will include the City’s innovative one-way street conversions to increase temporary parking, curb-less design and drainage solutions, and methods to encourage pedestrian safety and accessibility amid ongoing construction activity.
- Balancing Efficiency and Sensitivity in Construction Sequencing – Gain insights into how the project team approached construction sequencing, balancing efficiency, contractor-proposed alternates, and archaeological sensitivities. This session will highlight key decision points that supported progress while accommodating field discoveries and minimizing community impact.
Ryan Lopossa
Transportation Manager
City of Vancouver
Speaker Bio:
As the City of Vancouver’s Transportation Manager, Ryan has helped the City make significant strides towards maintaining and improving the City’s transportation network for all users. He has been instrumental in identifying dedicated transportation funding sources, including large state and federal grants, and developing the City’s multiple transportation benefit districts. Ryan has also implemented a highly effective pavement management program that works closely with the City’s utility groups and ADA programs to efficiently manage funding and deliver fully completed investments for the community.
Elise Steffen
Project Manager
MacKay Sposito
Speaker Bio:
Elise Steffen is a Project Manager at MacKay Sposito who led the consultant team design coordination and project delivery for the Main Street Promise project. She worked closely with the City and consultant team to develop unique design solutions that created a revitalized corridor, improving safety, accessibility, and connectivity in downtown Vancouver. Her continued involvement through construction provided valuable perspective on translating design intent into practical field solutions, strengthening collaboration between the design and construction teams.
Julie Arenz
Small Business Project Manager
City of Vancouver
Speaker Bio:
Julie is a local government professional focused on small business engagement, construction communications, and equity initiatives. She has led projects like the Main Street Promise communications plan and Small Business Resource Fairs, building partnerships to foster Vancouver’s small business ecosystem. Her work emphasizes transparency, sustainability, and inclusion to support local businesses and the community through change.
Shannon Buell
Vice President of Operations
Nutter Corporation
Speaker Bio:
Shannon is the vice president of operations at Nutter Corporation where he has been leading teams building local projects since 2017. Nutter Corporation has experienced substantial growth under Shannon’s leadership through long-standing partnerships and opportunities to develop relationships with new customers. When Shannon is not in the office, he enjoys going on adventures with his 5-year-old daughter and their Golden Doodle, going out on the lake with the pontoon boat, or taking his Harley Davidson for a cruise. Shannon grew up in Montana, but is happy to get a break from shoveling all that snow in the winter.
Geotechnical Oversight in Design-Build: Lessons from Structure C
Room – Hemlock
Wednesday, April 15th, 4:10 PM -5:10 PM
Geotechnical Oversight in Design-Build: Lessons from Structure C
Session Overview:
Structure C, an aerial guideway on Sound Transit’s recently opened Federal Way Link Extension, faced complex challenges due to liquifiable soils. This session examines the role of the Owner’s geotechnical oversight, application of 3D geotechnical modeling, and lessons learned to improve risk management through the Structure C case study.
Session Objectives:
- Define the role of Owner’s geotechnical oversight within design-build delivery and its influence on project outcomes.
- Examine Structure C site conditions and demonstrate how advances in 3D geological modeling supports document reviews and decision-making.
- Identify lessons learned from Structure C for managing geotechnical project risk.
Oliver Pengilly P.E
Senior Geotechnical Project Manager
Mott MacDonald
Speaker Bio:
Oliver (“Ollie”) is a licensed civil engineer in Washington and UK Chartered engineering geologist with over 12 years of experience delivering major design-build and rail infrastructure projects, including leadership roles on high-profile transit extensions and underground alignments across the United States and internationally. As a Leapfrog Works superuser, Oliver specializes in developing advanced 3D geological models to support complex engineering tasks in diverse geological environments, from the UK and Sri Lanka to Iraq, Egypt, and the US. His experience spans ground investigation, geotechnical project management, and digital delivery, consistently driving innovation and successful outcomes on multidisciplinary teams for major infrastructure programs.
What’s Changing in Traffic Safety – Adoption of New MUTCD Edition
Room – Oak
Wednesday, April 15th, 4:10 PM -5:10 PM
What’s Changing in Traffic Safety – Adoption of New MUTCD Edition
Session Overview:
This session will cover the adoption of the 11th Edition MUTCD in Washington State. We will review selected changes MUTCD and compare them to the previous edition. We will also address Washington specific modifications in WAC 468-95 and how they affect the MUTCD.
Session Objectives:
- Discuss Washington adoption of the 11th Edition MUTCD.
- Review selected changes from previous editions.
- Review Washington Modifications as applied to the MUTCD.
Trevor McCain
Traffic Signing Specialist
Washington State Department of Transportation
Speaker Bio:
Trevor McCain has been working for WSDOT for 19 years and has performed roles within region and HQ Traffic Operations. He is currently the HQ Transportation Operations office Traffic Signing Specialist, responsible for policy in the WSDOT Traffic Manual, maintaining the WSDOT Sign Fabrication Manual and acts as a resource for WSDOT regions and other agencies regarding signing issues.
Applying Asset Management Approaches to Natural Resources
Room – Spruce
Wednesday, April 15th, 4:10 PM -5:10 PM
Applying Asset Management Approaches to Natural Resources
Session Overview:
Kitsap County will share a framework for managing natural resources as community assets, applying traditional asset management approaches to track and strategically plan for natural assets and the services they provide. This innovative approach will be valuable for members who operate at the intersection of the built and natural environments.
Session Objectives:
- Review and discuss the ecosystem and community services provided by natural assets
- Identify current gaps between built asset management and natural resource management approaches
- Apply built asset management approaches & technology to natural assets
Brittany Gordon
Natural Resource Coordinator
Kitsap County
Speaker Bio:
Brittany Gordon is a habitat biologist and natural resource manager who has spent most of her career working to protect and restore the ecosystems that shape and are shaped by the built environment. She has served as an Area Habitat Biologist at Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, as a transportation planner at the Department of Transportation Olympic Region, and now as the Natural Resource Coordinator in the Kitsap County Department of Community Development. Brittany brings creative, collaborative strategic planning to align natural resource and community needs with long term resilience and sustainability.
Jonathan Raine
Technology Analyst
Kitsap County
Speaker Bio:
Jonathan Raine is a GIS Analyst with the Kitsap County Department of Community Development’s Natural Resources Program. He holds a master’s degree in Resource Economics and Policy from Duke University and brings over 25 years of experience as a spatial data scientist. Jonathan specializes in working with complex natural resource datasets, leveraging tools such as ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Python, ModelBuilder, and SQL to support sustainable land use planning, environmental analysis, and data-driven decision-making.
Robinson Low
Habitat Policy Senior Manager
WA Conservation Action Education Fund
Elizabeth McManus
Managing Principal
Ross Strategic
Boundary Surveys — What’s So Complicated?
Room – Pine
Wednesday, April 15th, 4:10 PM -5:10 PM
Boundary Surveys — What’s So Complicated?
Session Overview:
Boundary and Right-of-Way Surveys look simple, yet they often hide historic conflicts, unclear easements, and critical risks for project teams. This session reveals why surveying them is complex, how surveyors resolve uncertainties, and how early, accurate boundary work reduces delays. Ideal for professionals involved in planning, designing, or delivering public infrastructure.
Session Objectives:
- Identify the legal, historical, and technical factors that contribute to the complexity of property and right-of-way boundary surveys.
- Evaluate conflicting boundary documents, records, and field evidence to determine defensible boundary locations during early project due diligence.
- Utilize title commitments, plats, surveys, field notes and other mapping records as evidence in determining boundary locations.
Chris Sherby, PLS
Principal
S&F Land Services
Speaker Bio:
Chris Sherby, PLS, is licensed in five states, OR, WA, ID, UT & NV, and serves as the owner of S&F Land Services, where he leads complex right-of-way and roadway surveying projects spanning hundreds of properties. With a Bachelor of Science in Geomatics, he brings deep technical expertise and practical field insight to every project. Chris has also spent 12 years teaching college-level surveying, sharing his passion for the profession and shaping the next generation of surveyors.
Matt Faulkner, PLS, CFedS
Principal
S&F Land Services
Speaker Bio:
Matt Faulkner, PLS, CFedS, is licensed in six states, WA, OR, ID, AK, MT, & NM, and brings extensive expertise as a Certified Federal Surveyor and owner of S&F. With a Bachelor of Science in Geomatics, he leads large-scale energy and utility right-of-way surveys that span hundreds of properties and require precise coordination. Matt also taught college-level surveying for nine years, fostering strong technical foundations and a passion for excellence within the profession.
5:15pm – 6:15pm
EP Committee Happy Hour
Room: Birch, 5:15 – 6:16pm
Join the Emerging Professionals Committee for an open conversation on balancing work and life during the early stages of your career. We’ll start with a short EP Committee update and a mini-talk on navigating life challenges, then move straight into a Happy Hour built around rotating “speed conversations.” Presenters will be wearing EP shirts and will be topic moderators stationed around the room. Attendees will circulate through each stop, trade perspectives with peers, and build real connections along the way.
Thursday, April 16, 2026
8:45am – 9:45am
Leading in Crunch Time
Room – Cedar
Thursday, April 16th, 8:45 AM -9:45 AM
Leading in Crunch Time
Session Overview:
The focus of this session is on five essential leadership traits that enable leaders to navigate the complexities, uncertainties, and high-stakes decisions of disaster situations. These traits are crucial for maintaining public safety, coordinating teams, and restoring critical infrastructure.
Session Objectives:
- Review five personality traits that every effective crisis leader should have.
- Identify a pathway to building these traits.
- Enhancing your current skill sets for establishing credibility in your organization.
Kirk Holmes
Director of Public Works, Emergency Services Division
Ardurra
Speaker Bio:
Kirk has been actively involved in over 20 disaster events since 2001 and has been engaged in multi-hazard Incident Command operations for over 20 years. Through this experience, he has gathered knowledge and awareness of the necessary personality traits needed to lead and organization and teams during times of great stress. Kirk represents APWA-WA as co-chair of the State Emergency Management Council and serves on the Washington State Mutual Aid System and Statewide Catastrophic Incident Planning Team sub-committees.
Foss Waterway Cleanup and Stormwater Outreach Campaign
Room – Hemlock
Thursday, April 16th, 8:45 AM -9:45 AM
Foss Waterway Cleanup and Stormwater Outreach Campaign
Session Overview:
“If It Hits the Ground, It Hits the Sound” is a community art campaign engaging artists, students, employees, and residents in stormwater pollution prevention. This session discusses the Foss Waterway cleanup and shares lessons learned on collaboration, long-term stewardship, and practical outreach strategies to protect local waterways.
Marvin Griffin
Business Services Analyst, Strategic Planning
City of Tacoma Environmental Services
Speaker Bio:
Marvin is the Business Services Analyst for the Strategic Planning Team for Environmental Services assisting with the strategic direction of “If It Hits The Ground, It Hits The Sound” campaign.
Laura Nokes
Engineering Project Manager
City of Tacoma Environmental Services
Speaker Bio:
Laura Nokes is an Engineering Project Manager with the City of Tacoma’s Environmental Services Department, specializing in watershed protection and stormwater management. She leads efforts focused on water-quality monitoring, regulatory compliance, and long-term watershed planning.
Kirsti Lipphardt
Regulatory Compliance Analyst
City of Tacoma Environmental Services
Speaker Bio:
Kirsti Lipphardt is a Regulatory Compliance Analyst with Tacoma Environmental Services, specializing in stormwater planning, public engagement, and regulatory compliance. She helps implement MS4 NPDES permit requirements and leads education efforts through the “If It Hits the Ground, It Hits the Sound” initiative.
Leadership Lessons: Intern to Public Works Director
Room – Oak
Thursday, April 16th, 8:45 AM -9:45 AM
Leadership Lessons: Intern to Public Works Director
Session Overview:
Mr. Schimek has taken the opportunity to critically review his 40-year career path from intern to Public Works Director to better understand how his decision making has benefited and hindered his progress. He offers insights from this critical review to aspiring leaders to learn from both his successes and failures.
Session Objectives:
- Evaluate your professional decision making process in a non-judgemental manner
- Develop and implement plan to build professional network to assess your growth
- Define your characteristics of a supportive work environment
Gary Schimek
Public Works Director
City of Mountlake Terrace, Washington
Speaker Bio:
Mr. Schimek has worked in the Public Works field for 40 years beginning with a position as an engineering intern for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources through his current role as Public Works Director with the City of Mountlake Terrace, WA. Mr. Schimek has worked in municipal government, state government, consulting, and academia and is focused on collaborative leadership, decision making, and problem solving for the greater public good.
Built Through Chaos: Western Washington’s Resilience
Room – Spruce
Thursday, April 16th, 8:45 AM -9:45 AM
Built Through Chaos: Western Washington’s Resilience
Session Overview:
This presentation explores how natural disasters—earthquakes, floods, landslides, storms, wildfires, and volcanic events—have shaped infrastructure in Western Washington. It examines historical examples, economic impacts, and the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen resilience through engineering upgrades, hazard planning, and community preparedness, highlighting lessons learned from the region’s evolving relationship with nature.
Session Objectives:
- Identify the major natural hazards affecting infrastructure in Western Washington, including earthquakes, floods, landslides, storms, wildfires, and volcanic activity.
- Evaluate historical case studies to assess how past disasters have impacted transportation, utilities, and community infrastructure.
- Discuss the economic and operational consequences of infrastructure disruptions caused by natural disasters.
- Review Washington State’s current mitigation, retrofit, and emergency preparedness strategies aimed at enhancing infrastructure resilience.
- Develop approaches for integrating hazard awareness and resilience planning into future infrastructure projects.
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.
Sean McDermott
Business Development Manager
Skillings
Speaker Bio:
Sean has more than 20 years of marketing, public relations and communications experience and eight years in the public works industry. He uses local history to drive his exploration of the Pacific Northwest.
Kyle Nolan
Design Engineer
CM Design Group
Speaker Bio:
Kyle is an Engineer in Training with experience in various aspects of civil design. He has a passion for shaping our built environments to work for the human and non-human communities that inhabit them.
Jennifer Hushour
Director, Cultural Resources West
Westland Resources
Speaker Bio:
Jennifer is an archaeologist and director of WestLand’s cultural resources department, which provides archaeological and historic preservation services for public and private projects throughout the western U.S. Her background is in the excavation and analysis of human remains and historic period archival research.
10:30am – 11:30am
ADA: The “Why” Behind the Rules
Room – Cedar
Thursday, April 16th, 10:30 AM -11:30 AM
ADA: The “Why” Behind the Rules
Session Overview:
ADA often feels arcane and mystifying. This presentation will provide a framework for understanding how the parts and pieces of the ADA puzzle fit together. Understanding the history and status of ADA can help make sense of what is required, why it is required, and how it is enforced.
Session Objectives:
- Review the rules and regulations that govern ADA.
- Discuss how ADA is enforced.
- Develop a conceptual framework for ADA compliance that goes deeper than just the rules.
Glenn Blackwelder, PE, PTOE
Traffic Practice Lead
Horrocks
Speaker Bio:
Glenn Blackwelder, PE, PTOE, has 26 years of traffic engineering experience with expertise in pedestrian access standards, work zone traffic control standards, and the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). During his career, he spent seven years leading the Utah Department of Transportation’s (UDOT) pedestrian access standards and program. During that time, Glenn led an update of UDOT’s pedestrian access standards and developed standard drawings for pedestrian access in work zones.
Willow Creek – Multi-Agency Success for Habitat Restoration
Room – Hemlock
Thursday, April 16th, 10:30:00 AM -11:30:00 AM
Willow Creek – Multi-Agency Success for Habitat Restoration
Session Overview:
Learn from Seattle Department of Transportation’s Willow Creek restoration project, a complex urban mitigation project within Seattle. We share practical strategies for interagency coordination and cross-discipline conflict resolution that transformed multiple priorities into successful ecosystem restoration. Learn about the design process and lessons learned for success in similar urban mitigation projects.
Session Objectives:
- Identify solutions for successful agency coordination and consensus building
- Define detailed project success criteria
- Prepare detailed design documentation that adequately captures a complex design
Ben Dupuy, PE
Design Engineer and Project Manager
Jacobs Engineering Group
Speaker Bio:
Ben is an engineer with 15 years of progressive nationwide civil, construction, and culvert replacement and stream restoration design experience doing everything from environmental compliance monitoring to bid package and construction oversight for site civil and restoration projects across the country. Ben draws together extensive knowledge of restoration and civil design, an understanding of interdisciplinary team and task management, 3D Design technology and restoration design tools (Large Woody Material Stability, Sediment Sizing, etc.), PS&E document preparation, and a broad understanding of river restoration and multi-objective floodplain connectivity. His passion is linking disciplines and teams together to work towards a common project goal, centered on restoration and sustainability.
Thérèse Casper
Project Manager
Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT)
Speaker Bio:
Thérèse Casper has been at the City of Seattle for 25 years, starting as a transportation planner for the first Sound Transit line from the Rainier Valley into Downtown Seattle. As she moved to different positions and divisions (including a stint at the Mayor’s Office), she found that project management was her passion as well as the desire to improve the walkability and livability of Seattle. Most recently, she built Waterfront Projects in Pioneer Square and through the Pike Pine corridor.
The Manager’s Mindset
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Lessons Learned from Development-Driven Transportation Projects
Room – Spruce
Thursday, April 16th, 10:30 AM -11:30 AM
Lessons Learned from Development-Driven Transportation Projects
Session Overview:
Transportation projects often drive economic and residential growth in Urban Growth Areas. This panel, moderated by Greg Jellison (Consor), features leaders from Vancouver, Walla Walla, and Douglas County sharing insights, challenges, and lessons learned from development-driven projects, helping agencies plan and deliver complex infrastructure successfully.
Session Objectives:
- Identify key lessons learned during pre-design phases, including master planning and environmental review processes.
- Evaluate strategies and lessons from design and construction phases, focusing on coordination with private developers.
- Discuss practical solutions and insights during an interactive Q&A session.
Greg Jellison, PE
District Manager, Washington Transportation
Consor North America, Inc. (Consor)
Speaker Bio:
As the Washington Transportation District Manager for Consor, Greg brings 38 years of experience in the design and construction of transportation infrastructure throughout Washington State. His background includes work in both the public and private sectors, including transportation projects driven by economic and residential development including Vancouver Waterfront, Walla Walla Myra Rd, and Douglas County Wenatchi Landing projects.
Elizabeth Chamberlain
City Managerov
City of Walla Walla
Speaker Bio:
Ryan Lopossa
Transportation Manager
City of Vancouver
Speaker Bio:
Ryan is the Transportation Manager for the City of Vancouver and brings over 25 years managing and delivering transportation projects. Ryan oversaw the Vancouver Waterfront Project, completed in 2018, which was part of an overall subarea plan and EIS/Planned Action that re-imagined Vancouver’s historic waterfront to create jobs, restaurants, shops, housing, a hotel and a park that connected 35 acres along the Columbia River to the city’s historic core.
Aaron Simmons
County Engineer
Douglas County
Speaker Bio:
Aaron is the County Engineer for Douglas County and brings over 20 years managing and delivering transportation projects. Aaron is the County PM for the Wenatchi Landing Project, currently in design, which was part of an overall masterplan and EIS/Planned Action to support the development of a 317-acre subarea within Douglas County and the Urban Growth Boundary of the City of East Wenatchee, WA. The subarea is envisioned as a regional center for jobs, housing, and economic development.
Conflict Resolution for Collaborative Teams
Room – Pine
Thursday, April 16th, 10:30 AM -11:30 AM
Conflict Resolution for Collaborative Teams
Session Overview:
Join a candid discussion where public works professionals share real-world experiences and practical conflict management tools for collaboration. Hear insights on resolving conflicts, asserting your voice in critical conversations, and working effectively with contractors, clients, and consultants—especially when projects face contract changes and tough negotiations.
Session Objectives:
- Identify effective strategies for resolving conflicts and fostering collaboration among contractors, clients, and consultants.
- Apply assertive communication techniques to navigate critical project discussions and maintain professional relationships.
- Evaluate approaches for managing contract changes and negotiating agreements that support project goals and stakeholder expectations.
Christian Nichols
Sr Project Engineer
PACE Engineers
Speaker Bio:
With over 12 years of experience, Christian has designed water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure; roadways; grading; technical writing; cost estimation, and project permitting. His most significant professional achievement has been developing a well-rounded knowledge and set of skills to work on numerous types of projects. Christian started PACE’s Emerging Leaders Group to create a community among PACE staff with less than 10-15 years of experience with the goal of this community is to encourage and assist one another in growing their careers.
Kellie Jaenicke
Construction Project Manager
KPFF
Speaker Bio:
Throughout Kellie’s professional career, she has provided both project management and construction management services on a multitude of projects. Kellie has a diversified portfolio of projects with varying contracting methods and complex work environments, including 24-hour facilities. She takes pride and ownership in her work, fostering collaboration between all team members and maintaining a high level of project organization.
Brian Sweet, PE, CCM
Director Engineering – Construction Management
Port of Seattle
Speaker Bio:
Brian is a Professional Civil Engineer and Certified Construction Manager with 40 years in the construction and facility management industry. Prior to assuming his current role Director Engineering – Construction Management with the Port, he led the Terminal, Tenant, Noise, Infrastructure and Baggage teams. In addition to his 17 years with Port of Seattle, Brian served 21 years in the US Navy where he retired as a Commander, Civil Engineer Corp and work as a CM consultant for URS/AECOM.
Ken Jason Oliva, PE
Associate Civil Engineer, Program Manager
Seattle Department of Transportation
Speaker Bio:
Ken Jason Oliva is a civil engineer with experience in heavy civil construction and transportation. He started working in the field managing multiple scopes of work from temporary traffic control, underground utilities, rail, and survey. After transitioning to the public sector with SDOT, he manages small capital projects from project development and design all the way through construction and close out for SDOT’s New Traffic Signals and Signal Major Maintenance programs.
Brian Kittleson
Associate Vice President
HNTB Corporation
Speaker Bio:
Brian is a Construction Engineer on the Waterfront program for the city of Seattle for the past 5 years. Resident Engineer for the Mercer Corridor East and West. Previously Vice President of Merlino Construction, project engineer Granite Construction, and Kiewit.
1:15pm – 2:15pm
WSDOT Local Programs 101
Room – Cedar
Thursday, April 16th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
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 & 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 WSDOT
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.
Seattle Public Utilities Creek Culvert Inspection Program
Room – Hemlock
Thursday, April 16th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
Seattle Public Utilities Creek Culvert Inspection Program
Session Overview:
Seattle Public Utilities and Leeway Engineering Solutions developed a creek culvert inspection program using modern AASHTO methods and GIS-based tools. This session shares practical workflows and lessons learned to help agencies efficiently collect accurate field data and apply asset management principles to prioritize creek culvert maintenance, repair, and replacement efforts.
Session Objectives:
- Identify key components of an inspection program using industry standards
- Develop workflows for systematic data collection
- Evaluate data to prioritize asset management activities
Aaron Miller, PE
Senior Drainage Engineer
Seattle Public Utilities – Drainage and Wastewater – Urban Watersheds
Speaker Bio:
Aaron received his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Civil and Environmental Engineering from University of Washington, and is a Seattle Area native. His background is in planning, design, and construction of surface water infrastructure including stormwater conveyance, fish-passage design, and stream restoration. In his current role as a Senior Drainage Engineer at SPU, Aaron manages open channel conveyances and culverts in Seattle’s urban watersheds.
Shant Douzdjian, EIT
Project Engineer
Leeway Engineering Solutions
Speaker Bio:
Shant received his Masters degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of California, Davis where he modeled California’s surface water systems and assessed fish habitat impacts. He grew up in Portland and has been working in water resources in the Pacific Northwest for 4 years with a focus on planning, options analysis, infiltration & inflow analysis, and design.
Managing Utility Conflicts for Public Projects
Room – Oak
Thursday, April 16th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
Managing Utility Conflicts for Public Projects
Session Overview:
Explore strategies for addressing utility conflicts for projects in the right-of-way. A panel of representatives from project owners, designers, and construction managers will discuss lessons-learned from recent projects. The panel will compare proactive design techniques, like potholing and GPR, to strategies to manage conflicts during construction.
Session Objectives:
- Identify common causes of utility conflicts and their impact on project delivery.
- Evaluate proactive techniques during design versus mitigation strategies during construction.
- Discuss best practices for collaboration among engineers, contractors, and utility providers.
Cheyenne Covington
Senior Project Manager
Osborn Consulting
Speaker Bio:
Cheyenne Covington is a Senior Project Manager at Osborn Consulting who’s worked on complex stormwater, sewer, and infrastructure improvement projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. Cheyenne has extensive experience in stormwater model analysis, conveyance sizing, flood mitigation, stream and culvert retrofitting, detention and water quality design, and waterline relocation. He has recently taken several projects with complicated utility conflicts through full design PS&E and construction, bringing lessons learned from various approaches.
Jed Ireland
Senior Project Engineer
City of Sammamish, Public Works
Speaker Bio:
Jed Ireland manages projects specializing in municipal transportation and stormwater infrastructure for the City of Sammamish. He leads complex corridor studies, roadway reconstruction projects, and multi-disciplinary capital programs, with a focus on community engagement and practical, buildable design solutions. Jed has over 20 years of experience collaborating with consultants, utilities, and public agencies in the Puget Sound region.
Cameron Bloomer
Project Manager
KBA, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Cameron Bloomer has 18 years of practical hands-on experience with public works construction projects. He is familiar with roadway, bridge, utility, and transit facility improvement projects. Cameron started as an Office Engineer and Inspector and spent eight years as a Resident Engineer before becoming a Project Manager. He is also a leader in the Construction Management field, serving as Treasurer for the Construction Management Association of America PNW chapter.
Mount Vernon Flood Wall - Successes/Lessons
Room – Spruce
Thursday, April 16th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
Mount Vernon Flood Wall – Successes/Lessons
Session Overview:
The Mount Vernon Flood Wall is an innovative solution to flood protection from major events that would otherwise severely impact downtown Mount Vernon business district, city and county government buildings, and area residents. Planning and construction of the flood wall was a 14-year effort completed in 2018 involving several regulatory and funding agencies. This discussion touches on development history, preparation for a flood event, design features, deployment of the wall, and lessons learned from the last two flood fights.
Session Objectives:
- Review the phasing and regulatory challenges of planning, design, and implementation.
- Discuss decision making process for deploying and installing the wall during a major flood event.
- Discuss “Lessons Learned” regarding design and deployment.
William Bullock, PE, MPA
Public Works Director
City of Sedro-Woolley, Former City Engineer – Mount Vernon
Speaker Bio:
Bill has worked as an engineer and administrator in local government for Washington cities and counties for the last 32 years. His responsibilities have ranged from transportation planning, project development, construction management, operations management, and public administration. He has a BS in Industrial Engineering, a Civil PE, and a Masters in Public Administration.
Beyond the Blueprint: Building Influence in Engineering
Room – Pine
Thursday, April 16th, 1:15 PM -2:15 PM
Beyond the Blueprint: Building Influence in Engineering
Session Overview:
Practical strategies for young engineers to transform your career of technical expertise into one also of leadership influence: view challenges through agency and consultant lenses, master communication and trust-building, and leverage team-building and delegation to achieve goals and accelerate career growth through project leadership.
Session Objectives:
- Analyze stakeholder priorities from agency and consultant perspectives to tailor technical communication for project team alignment.
- Demonstrate trust-building communication and conflict-resolution practices that foster collaboration and successful project outcomes.
- Apply leadership transition strategies by leveraging visibility, advocacy, and lessons learned from previous experiences.
Kyle Gray
Lead Consultant, Civil Engineering
WSP
Speaker Bio:
Kyle Gray, PE, is a Lead Consultant for Civil Engineering at WSP, with eight years of experience delivering complex infrastructure projects across Washington and beyond. Kyle specializes in corridor widening, bridge approaches, multimodal improvements, and stormwater design, and is recognized for his expertise in interdisciplinary coordination and mentoring emerging engineers. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering from Washington State University and looks to help build a sustainable future through his certifications in LEED, CESCL and Envision SP.
Mary Heather Ames
Deputy Public Works Director
City of Pasco
Speaker Bio:
Mary Heather Ames, PE is Deputy Director of Public Works for the City of Pasco. From her first introduction to Public Works as an intern at City of Port Townsend to her current role, Mary Heather has enjoyed working to make life better in her community and for her co-workers. She has experience in nearly every area of Public Works and enjoys the people she works with the most.
Michael Kosa
Public Works Director
City of Sumner
Speaker Bio:
Michael Kosa, P.E., is the Public Works Director for the City of Sumner, Washington, where he leads infrastructure planning, utility coordination, and capital project delivery for the city. With over two decades of experience in civil engineering from both the municipal and private side, including roles at CH2M HILL, URS Corporation, and David Evans and Associates, Michael brings deep expertise in roadway design, drainage systems, and public sector project management. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Environmental Engineering from Seattle University and is known for his collaborative leadership and commitment to community-focused solutions.
Nolan Sijer
Civil Engineer
Jacobs
Speaker Bio:
Nolan Sijer, PE, is a Transportation Engineer at Jacobs who specializes in multimodal corridor upgrades and improvements, along with pavement design. He is an active member in the APWA Washington Chapter, where he co-chairs the Emerging Professionals committee and recipient of the 2025 Young Leader Award for his leadership and chapter contributions. Nolan holds a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from Washington State University and is passionate about building connections, improving our communities we live in, and preparing the next generation of future leaders in Public Works.
Christina Martinez
Senior Vice President
Principal, Director, Transportation
WSP
Speaker Bio:
Christina Martinez is Senior Vice President and Principal Director of Transportation Project Management at WSP, where she leads multimodal infrastructure programs across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. With almost three decades of experience—including prior leadership roles at Jacobs and WSDOT—Christina is a trusted advisor in strategic planning, program delivery, and equity-focused transportation initiatives, most recently as the consultant Program Manager for the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program. She holds a degree in Environmental Science from Western Washington University and is known for her leadership that unites teams and prioritizes solutions.
2:45pm – 3:45pm
Data-Driven Sidewalk Assessments for Safer Cities
Room – Cedar
Thursday, April 16th, 2:45 PM -3:45 PM
Data-Driven Sidewalk Assessments for Safer Cities
Session Overview:
Cities must maintain sidewalks with limited budgets and increasing liability exposure from trip hazards. Sidewalk condition assessments improve safety, prioritize maintenance, and reduce liability. Cross Reiter presents two recent assessments completed for the Cities of Lacey and Olympia. Turn field data into actionable results that guide maintenance planning and policy.
Session Objectives:
- Identify and quantify sidewalk defects and distress using standardized type and severity criteria.
- Apply GIS- and GPS-based methods to collect, manage, and aggregate geospatial data; map sidewalk defects; and calculate sidewalk condition scores using weighted criteria.
- Prepare defensible prioritization plans for sidewalk maintenance and repair that maximize budgets and reduce liability from pedestrian trip hazards.
Laura Cross Reiter
Principal Engineer
Cross Reiter
Speaker Bio:
Laura Reiter is the founder and president of Cross Reiter, a woman-owned civil and geotechnical engineering firm serving public agencies across Washington. With 17 years of experience spanning consulting and public service, she combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of how cities build and maintain infrastructure. At Cross Reiter, Laura designs and manages projects that enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety and strengthen community connections through thoughtful design.
Max DeJarnatt
Associate Planner
City of Olympia
Speaker Bio:
Max DeJarnatt is a transportation planner in the City of Olympia’s Public Works Department. Max manages sidewalk repairs throughout the City and led the City’s efforts to complete a sidewalk condition assessment in 2024.
Mike Reiter
Principal Engineer
Cross Reiter
Speaker Bio:
Mike Reiter is a civil and geotechnical engineer whose career spans consulting, construction, and public service. He has led hundreds of infrastructure projects across the Pacific Northwest, including for dams, utility systems, bridges, roads, and pavements. At Cross Reiter, Mike combines civil and geotechnical insight to deliver outstanding client outcomes. Recognized for his technical depth, he blends analytical rigor with practical experience across diverse disciplines to achieve project goals.
Leveraging ArcGIS for System-wide Sanitary Rehab Efforts
Room – Hemlock
Thursday, April 16th, 2:45 PM -3:45 PM
Leveraging ArcGIS for System-wide Sanitary Rehab Efforts
Session Overview:
Oregon City has embarked on an I&I reduction program covering over 40% of the sewer system. Using condition data overlaid with ArcGIS shapes and tools, Wallis Engineering has been able to create a variety of planning and assessment documents, figures and assets to inform the city’s program-wide decision-making and capital expenditures.
Allen Perlin
Project Engineer
Wallis Engineering, PLLC
Speaker Bio:
Allen is a professional engineer with 6 years of experience. His previous experiences as a water treatment manager for township treatment plants in Massachusetts bring valuable operational oversight experience to his utility system projects at Wallis. He currently assists with cost estimating, modeling, design, and construction management on a variety of local projects.
AI Improving Public Works – Analysis Tools from Experts
Room – Oak
Thursday, April 16th, 2:45 PM -3:45 PM
AI Improving Public Works – Analysis Tools from Experts
Session Overview:
Introduction to three 3 tools that enhance Public Works engineering analysis and decision making. These AI tools include traffic analysis/optimization, disaster response, and internal pipe analysis.
This would be a typical one hour session in a meeting room with tables and power outlets. Typical 15 to 30 minute set-up and break-down before and after the session.
Session Objectives:
- Identify areas where AI assisted tools are being used.
- Discussed how these tools are utilized on Public Works projects.
- Review their effectiveness in improving Public Works deliverables.
Paul Wilhem
City of Everett, CAD & UAS Program Manager; Public Works Engineering Department
APWA WA Chapter Technology Committee, Co-chair
Speaker Bio:
Paul is the CAD & UAS program manager at the City of Everett Public Works Engineering department; Paul has been a member of the APWA WA State Chapter Technology Committee for four years, currently serving at the committee chair.
Doug Smith, PE
Mechanical Engineer
MENG Analysis and APWA WA Chapter Technology Committee
Speaker Bio:
Doug is licensed professional engineer and proponent of technology to improve quality of life, protect the environment and conserve tax dollars. Doug has been an active member of the WA State APWA Chapter Technology Committee for six years, and is currently serving as the committee co-chair.
Build / Buy America – Now and What’s Next
Room – Spruce
Thursday, April 16th, 2:45 PM -3:45 PM
Build / Buy America – Now and What’s Next
Session Overview:
With changes to the federal aid Build America / Buy America (BABA) requirements on October 1st, 2025, and new requirements in October 2026, learn the nuances from WSDOT’s expert Patricia Crane (State Specifications Engineer). Come get educated on compliance with BABA requirements and pass audits with flying colors.
Session Objectives:
- Review the implemented October 2025 BABA Requirements
- Preview the upcoming October 2026 BABA requirements
- Discuss questions on the current and future BABA requirements
Patricia Crane
State Specifications Engineer
WSDOT
Speaker Bio:
Patricia Crane is the State Specification Engineer for WSDOT. With over 25 years of experience, she has administered both the design and the construction of highway contracts. Having navigated many law and policy changes over her career, Patricia decodes the Buy America Requirements into language that can be followed by both state and local agencies.
William Wonch
WSDOT Local Programs – Project Development Engineer
WSDOT
Speaker Bio:
William Wonch is a Transportation Technical Engineer with WSDOT Local Programs, where he provides guidance and oversight to local agencies delivering federally funded projects. With nearly 26 years at WSDOT and 10 years in private construction management, he brings contracting management expertise from both prospectives. He manages the Local Agency Guidelines (LAG) manual and is responsible for ensuring project compliance with federal and state requirements. William is a key resource for navigating specifications, policies, funding processes, and project delivery standards on FHWA projects.
Specifications 101
Room – Pine
Thursday, April 16th, 2:45 PM -3:45 PM
Specifications 101
Session Overview:
Sponsored by the APWA Construction Standards and Emerging Professionals Committees: 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:
- Develop a foundational understanding of APWA and WSDOT GSPs and their role in local agency projects.
- Participants will learn what GSPs are, why they exist, how they are developed, and how they support clarity, consistency, and compliance across public works projects.
- Identify the core anatomy of a well-structured specification and how each component contributes to a complete, organized, and enforceable contract package.
- Attendees will gain clarity on the standard structure of specifications and how to ensure each section effectively supports project intent.
Apply best practices for writing and reviewing specifications to minimize errors and reduce construction-phase issues. - Participants will learn how to check for completeness, avoid common pitfalls such as outdated content or “project hangovers,” and leverage helpful tools and resources to support efficient, consistent specification development.
Nicole Brockwell
Senior Project Engineer
City of Wenatchee
Speaker Bio:
Nicole is a Senior Project Engineer with the City of Wenatchee, where she oversees a wide range of Capital Improvement Projects, from ADA and sidewalk upgrades to complex corridor enhancements and pedestrian bridge construction. 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 and a recent graduate of the APWA Emerging Leaders Academy, Nicole is passionate about workforce development and contributing to the advancement of local agency standards.
Dan Ireland
Principal
SCJ Alliance
Speaker Bio:
Dan lives in Wenatchee and brings over two decades of experience in both public and private projects, including roads, parks, trails, campgrounds, and private development. After starting his career with 11 years at WSDOT, he has spent the past 12 years with SCJ Alliance and recently completed a two-year term on the APWA Board, now transitioning to the APWA Construction Specification Committee. An avid skier and mountain biker, Dan enjoys exploring the outdoors and sharing life’s opportunities with his 6-year-old daughter.
Grace Garwin
Project Manager
Prizm Consulting
Speaker Bio:
Grace oversees both public works and private development projects at Prizm Consulting, with a specific focus on water and roadway projects. While her true passion lies in training new college graduates to be excellent public works engineers, she also wears many hats at Prizm including project manager, SOQ writer, graphic designer, templates guru, and lunchtime games coordinator. Outside of work, Grace loves to knit, play volleyball, and hangout with her cat!
4:00pm – 5:00pm
Turning Budget Constraints Into Multimodal Wins on SR 7
Room – Cedar
Thursday, APril 16th, 4:00 PM -5:00 PM
Turning Budget Constraints Into Multimodal Wins on SR 7
Session Overview:
Discover how WSDOT is transforming the auto-oriented SR 7 corridor into a low-stress, multimodal route. Learn about the Complete Streets, HEAL Act, and equity analyses that shaped cost-effective solutions. Attend to gain insights on creative, practical strategies for reducing crash potential, improving accessibility, and addressing corridor longevity for all users.
Session Objectives:
- Identify Complete Streets, HEAL Act, and equity analysis approaches used to evaluate multimodal corridor needs on state routes.
- Evaluate phased designs that reduce crash potential, improve accessibility, and address roadway longevity along auto-oriented corridors.
- Develop community-centered, multimodal concepts suited for constrained corridors like SR 7.
Daniel Dye, PE
Senior Associate Transportation Engineer
Fehr & Peers
Speaker Bio:
Daniel is a senior associate transportation engineer with experience in a variety of transportation projects throughout Washington. His recent experience includes working with communities to update their transportation elements, planning for transportation investments with WSDOT, updating or implementing transportation impact fee programs, assisting jurisdictions with peer review of development traffic studies, and managing on-call services for agency clients.
Joe Calodich
Multimodal Planning Team Lead
WSDOT Olympic Region
Speaker Bio:
Joe is a multimodal planner in WSDOT’s Olympic Region with experience leading Complete Streets pre-designs, including one of the first HEAL Act projects at WSDOT. Currently he coordinates with local jurisdictions on regional planning efforts and leads WSDOT planning studies. His background is in research focused on smart cities, displacement of small businesses, and resilience of community groups.
Put the FUN in the Fundamentals of Lift Station Design
Room – Hemlock
Thursday, April 16th, 4:00 PM -5:00
Put the FUN in the Fundamentals of Lift Station Design
Session Overview:
This presentation covers lift station design and optimization. Topics include sewage pump technologies, configurations such as self-cleaning, trench, cylindrical pit, and wet-well/dry-well stations, plus their benefits. We’ll review control strategies for efficiency and explore accessories that enhance operations, maintenance, and operator experience.
Session Objectives:
- Explain key principles of lift station design from engineering, operations, and maintenance perspectives.
- Apply troubleshooting techniques to identify and resolve common lift station problems.
- Demonstrate strategies to optimize system performance and extend equipment life.
Curtis Butterfield, PE
Office / Project Manager
Keller Associates, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Curtis Butterfield, PE is a civil engineer with over 23 years of combined experience in engineering and contracting. Curtis specializes in the design, construction, and rehabilitation of wastewater lift stations, including pump selection and sizing, wet well configuration, force main design, and integration with SCADA and control systems. His work emphasizes reliability, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards to support municipal and industrial wastewater infrastructure.
AI + Digital Twins = Better Sewer Insights
Room – Oak
Thursday, April 16th, 4:00 PM -5:00 PM
AI + Digital Twins = Better Sewer Insights
Session Overview:
Municipalities are modernizing inspections with AI and digital twins, shifting from reactive reporting to real-time, data-driven decision-making. With insights from Newcastle’s 75,000+ feet of storm sewer evaluations using PipeAid, this session highlights practical workflows that transform aging-system management into a faster, clearer, data-driven process.
Session Objectives:
- Reduce inspection review times by applying AI-powered tools, enabling field teams and decision-makers to access timely, actionable data for smarter infrastructure management and strategic planning.
- Standardize defect coding and reporting through the integration of AI and human expertise, ensuring consistent, reliable results that support performance measurement and continuous improvement in sewer asset management.
- Replace static inspection reports with interactive GIS-based maps, enhancing transparency, stakeholder engagement, and communication with leadership to foster public trust and informed decision-making.
Josh Ford, PE
Director of Engineering
PipeAid
Speaker Bio:
Josh Ford brings nationwide experience in SSES and wastewater condition assessments, including contractor oversight, QA/QC, and rehabilitation planning. He played a key role in developing PipeAid’s defect coding and rehabilitation workflows. His hands-on background as a Village Engineer for communities like Marble Cliff and Brice grounds his innovative approach in real utility challenges.
Brian Miller
Surface Water Program Manager
City of Newcastle, Washington
Speaker Bio:
Brian Miller brings 30 years of local city governmental Stormwater /inspection and construction experience. He has been innovated in his approach for Management of Surface Water System. He has brought new technology to the forefront of local government in the Westen Washinton Cities.
Public Works Mitigation Solutions in Washington State
Room – Spruce
Thursday, April 16th, 4:00 PM -5:00 PM
Public Works Mitigation Solutions in Washington State
Session Overview:
Mitigation requirements present challenges for planning, design, and implementation, especially new requirements for salmon habitat. The first presentation will describe mitigation solutions in Washington: permittee-responsible mitigation, advance mitigation, and credits purchased from mitigation banks or in-lieu fee programs. The second will describe the City of Olympia’s advance mitigation program.
Session Objectives:
- Describe mitigation opportunities for public organizations in Washington State
- Review approach, timeline, and activities for the City of Olympia’s advance mitigation program
- Discuss challenges for planning and implementing public mitigation projects, either as permittee-responsible or bank/in-lieu fee credit purchaser
Evan Carnes
Senior Managing Environmental Planner
Anchor QEA
Speaker Bio:
Evan Carnes is a Senior Managing Environmental Planner at Anchor QEA with more than 10 years’ experience administering federal environmental law and policy on the west coast of the U.S. He currently leads and collaborates with diverse teams on complex infrastructure and restoration projects including NEPA and SEPA EISs. Evan previously served as Chief of the Columbia Basin Section in the USACE, Seattle District, Regulatory Branch, leading and supervising project managers throughout southwest, central, and eastern Washington State.
Dan Berlin, PWS
Principal Scientist
Anchor QEA, LLC
Speaker Bio:
Dan Berlin is a Principal Scientist at Anchor QEA and has been supporting shoreline cleanup and restoration projects in Puget Sound for 25 years. He is the founder of the Washington Association of Mitigation Banks and specializes in advance mitigation and mitigation bank planning, environmental permitting, contaminated shoreline cleanup, and managing the design and construction of large cleanup and restoration projects in the United States and Canada. Dan has a Master’s Degree in wetland science from Duke University.
The Challenges of a Corridor Widening Project
Room – Pine
Thursday, April 16th, 4:00 PM -5:00 PM
The Challenges of a Corridor Widening Project
Session Overview:
Corridor widening is critical for growing communities. Learn how the City of Ridgefield tackled the 50th Avenue Roundabout and Pioneer Street Widening Project, including strategies for accelerated schedules, managing live traffic, and lessons learned to help agencies deliver complex projects successfully.
Session Objectives:
- Identify design issues that complicate a major road widening project.
- Evaluate construction phasing in an actively developing corridor.
- Discuss strategies for accelerated construction schedules while managing live traffic on the City’s main arterial to maintain timelines and minimize disruptions.
Mark Warren, PE
Principal, Construction PM
Consor North America, Inc. (Consor)
Speaker Bio:
Mark is a senior project and construction manager with over 30 years of experience in construction management, inspection, materials testing, and geotechnical services. He played a key role in establishing the collaborative framework that strengthened partnerships between the City, the contractor, the engineer of record, and Consor.
Grant Williams
Capital Program Manager
City of Ridgefield
Speaker Bio:
Grant serves as the Capital Program Manager for the City of Ridgefield and managed the 50th Avenue Roundabout and Pioneer Street Widening Project. With more than 23 years of experience in project management and contracting for both public and private sector work, his portfolio includes complex heavy civil, transportation, and site development projects.
Bruce Haunreiter, PE
Principal
Harper Houf Peterson Righellis, Inc.
Speaker Bio:
Bruce brings more than 30 years of expertise in planning, designing, and delivering complex civil infrastructure projects. His leadership spans multidisciplinary efforts across the Pacific Northwest, including transportation corridors, utility systems, and large-scale site developments. Bruce has successfully guided both public and private sector projects, adeptly managing regulatory requirements, technical challenges, and diverse stakeholder interests.
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