Are you interested in committees who plan and present educational opportunities?

Check out the Training Committees.  These committees focus on education, run certification programs, present webinars, and work with a wide variety of membership and the community. They support the Chapter's mission of providing education.

JUMP TO TRAINING COMMITTEES

Are you interested in specific area of technical expertise (even if you're not an expert yet)?

Check out the Committees with defined areas of interest.  These committees are focused on a single topic and will often present Conference sessions to help educate members about their area of interest.  From history, sustainability, biophilic design and technology in public works, these committees cover the gamut of expertise.

JUMP TO EXPERTISE COMMITTEES

Are you interested in working with a wide variety of the chapter membership?

Check out the Outreach Committees! These committees communicate with internal and external groups to serve members' needs and promote Chapter services to their groups.  Often focused on communicating to a subgroup of members, such as Emerging Professionals or Veterans, these committees can help serve as a connection with their group and the Chapter.

JUMP TO OUTREACH COMMITTEES

Are you interested in meeting the largest number of Chapter members and always knowing where the party is?

Check out the Event and Awards Committees! These committees plan and produce events, as well as manage and produce awards programs.  From feet on the ground (and golf clubs in the air) to reviewing awards submissions these committees welcome new members.

JUMP TO THE EVENTS & AWARDS COMMITTEES

Available Committees / Sub-Groups

Some Committees have additional information - click to learn more.  If you're interested in joining a committee, check the Committee Directory and email the Chair for more information.

*By Invitation Only

Once you've found a committee you're interested in, check the Committee Directory and contact the Chair.  Remember, not all committees are available to join without an invitation.

Training Committees

Contract Administration Education (CAEC)

The CAEC Committee offers a APWA certificate program and training workshops that are responsive to the needs of Public Works personnel to encourage and facilitate professional growth, networking, and statewide uniformity of contract administration to efficiently serve the public.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/education/caec-training

Management & Public Administration (MPAC)

MPAC convenes public works leaders from diverse disciplines to deliver practical, real-world learning opportunities, typically through in-person events paired with networking. Committee members help shape timely educational content and foster connections across the profession.

Maintenance School

The Maintenance School supports public works maintenance professionals by developing training that is practical, relevant, and directly applicable in the field. This sub-group of the Maintenance Committee helps design programs and recruit speakers that strengthen skills, promote best practices, and support the evolving needs of maintenance teams.

Mentorship

Mentorship facilitates an annual program designed to foster opportunities for connection, networking, and professional development. By pairing experienced Public Works employees with professionals seeking mentorship, they create a culture of inclusivity and open dialogue within the Chapter.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/education/mentorship

Northwest Public Works Institute*

*By Invitation Only

The Northwest Public Works Institute is a program of instruction for public works professionals who would like to attain a higher degree of proficiency as leaders and managers.  Due to the professional quality expected, this committee works closely with the Board and is by invitation only, but if you have an interest please reach out.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/nwpwi-training/

Once you've found a committee you're interested in, check the Committee Directory and contact the chair of the appropriate committee.  Remember, not all committees are available to join without an invitation.

Expertise Committees

Biophilic Design

The Biophilic Design Committee champions design approaches that weave nature into the built environment, fostering healthier, more resilient urban communities. Through early and inclusive planning, public works professionals and partners collaborate to create spaces that restore, heal, and strengthen our connection to the natural world.

To learn more, see our magazine article:  Summer 2025

Construction Management

The Construction Management Committee is a dedicated group of public works and private industry professionals dedicated to improving the delivery of public works projects. We engage in site tours and small in-person learning opportunities.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/com-info/construction-management/

Construction Materials

Our mission is to deliver practical guidance and best practices for construction materials specifications. The committee maintains APWA GSPs for Divisions 3–9, including updates to match current WSDOT Specifications, and takes the lead on topics like 5‑04 Hot Mix Asphalt and permeable pavement needs unique to local agencies. We produce annual updates to keep specifications current and relevant. Join us to improve materials standards and support local agency success.

Construction Specifications*

*By Invitation Only

Our mission is to provide Construction Standards General Special Provisions (GSPs), bidding/contracting forms, and best practices, to help Local Agencies bid and administer public works projects when using the WSDOT/APWA Standard Specifications as a base. Please reach out if you are interested, but membership is limited.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/com-info/construction-specifications/

Contract Administration Education (CAEC)

The CAEC Committee offers a APWA certificate program and online training workshops that are responsive to the needs of Public Works personnel to encourage and facilitate professional growth, networking, and statewide uniformity of contract administration to efficiently serve the public.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/education/caec-training

Emergency Management

Our committee’s purpose is to increase the readiness of public works professionals through emergency awareness, resource availability and continued training.

History (WA State)

We strive to make Washington State history come alive through conference presentations, Committee Spotlight blogs and PublicWorks Magazine articles. We focus on public works infrastructure in our presentations.

Hydraulics & Drainage Structures

We are a diverse group of professionals, consultants, and drainage product manufacturers that get together to discuss new products, current construction issues, and drainage related specifications.

Maintenance

To facilitate the inter-agency networking and cooperation enhance and improve the day operations for local, regional and national emergency response. This committee has several working sub-groups specializing in: Fleet Management, Maintenance School/Speaker Recruitment, ROADeo, and Equipment Procurement.

Stormwater Management

We bring together a wide range of stormwater practitioners to share information on the latest research, innovative projects and regulatory developments that impact and direct our members’ work.

Sustainability & Resiliency

Promote the concept of sustainability and provide public agencies and their consultants with information needed to develop and achieve sustainability goals. We also give out the Sustainability Award yearly at the Spring Conference and provide sustainability challenge opportunities.

Technology

To identify, educate, and promote technology to deliver Public Works faster, better, and more cost-effectively, in support of people, agencies, and organizations that plan, build, maintain, and improve our communities.

Transportation

Share knowledge by being the premiere conduit for technical sessions, advocate for legislation, policies, and practices that will lead to transportation systems that are more effective, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.

Once you've found a committee you're interested in, check the Committee Directory and contact the chair of the appropriate committee.  Remember, not all committees are available to join without an invitation.

Outreach Committees

Access & Opportunity

We work with the Membership Committee to invite and engage members that may feel like they are on the sidelines and to stand as a catalyst for change by developing opportunities to foster understanding, awareness, and involvement.

Emerging Professionals

Geared towards members and non-members who are starting out in their career and want to grow professionally. We provide events focused on career development and opportunities to network.

Government Affairs

Provides resources to our APWA membership regarding local, state, and national rules and legislation that  affect public works. Work with partners such as the Association of Washington Cities and Washington State Association of Counties to influence state legislation that impacts Public Works.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/legislative-update/

Marketing

We work in conjunction with other APWA-WA chapter committees and partner with other Washington associations to increase membership and participation in APWA-WA, boost public awareness of public works, and encourage public works careers.

Membership

Membership committee is a liaison between new members and the APWA committees and is one of the most important committees.  We assist with recruiting and maintaining memberships, showcasing membership resources as well as creating fun networking opportunities. Helping members connect and feel welcomed not only strengthens our Chapter but also Public Works as an industry. If reaching out is your jam, this is the committee for you.

Mentorship

Mentorship facilitates an annual program designed to foster opportunities for connection, networking, and professional development. By pairing experienced Public Works employees with professionals seeking mentorship, they create a culture of inclusivity and open dialogue within the Chapter.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/education/mentorship

Publications

We produce PublicWORKS, the Chapter’s quarterly 40+ page magazine with a circulation of 2000+ serving up the latest public works news, trends, and well-earned recognition from across the state. We’re seeking members with a nose for great stories and a passion for writing or editing to help keep the content fresh, relevant, and impactful.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/news/223-2/

Student Outreach & Scholarship

We help connect young people with opportunities to pursue careers in public works through student chapters, networking with public works professionals, supporting senior capstone projects and internships. We also fundraise to provide scholarships to students, administrative professionals and CDL drivers.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/scholarship

Veterans

We bridge the gap between veterans and public works employers who value their resilience, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. Through job fair outreach and employer resources, we showcase the meaningful impact of public works careers and help grow a strong, reliable workforce pipeline.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/news-and-announcements/hiring-veterans/

Once you've found a committee you're interested in, check the Committee Directory and contact the chair of the appropriate committee.  Remember, not all committees are available to join without an invitation.

Events & Awards Committees

Conference - Fall

Held in Eastern Washington in October annually, this powerhouse conference includes a focus on Maintenance / Equipment ROADeo as well as Night of Excellence. Join us to help get things done onsite, from staffing the registration desk to assistance with awards, many hands make light work.

To learn more, visit our page: washington.apwa.org/apwa-wa-conferences

Conference - Spring

Held in Western Washington in April annually, this well attended conference of 400+ includes a focus on Project of the Year. Join us to help get things done onsite, from staffing the registration desk to assistance with awards, many hands make light work.

To learn more, visit our page: washington.apwa.org/apwa-wa-conferences

Golf Tournament

The Golf Tournament is the main fundraiser for Scholarships. If you want to help at a fun networking event with heart, we can use you. This event has doubled in popularity and we can use the support. From assisting with pre-planning to staffing the day of the event, join us.

To learn more, visit our page: washington.apwa.org/apwa-wa-conferences

Night of Excellence Awards

Each year during the Fall Conference, the Chapter recognizes individual excellence in Public Works. With awards recognizing individuals, groups, and even non-member all-stars, this committee works hard to gather submissions, select winners, and make the show happen!

To learn more, visit our page: washington.apwa.org/awards/night-of-excellence/

North American Snow Conference (2026-2028 only)

The annual APWA North American Snow Conference focuses on snowfighting best practices and new trends, and is held in a new location each year. In April 23-26, 2028, the Washington Chapter will host the event . This is an exciting opportunity to work with our local committee with the support of National team.

To learn more, see National's page for the current year: apwa.org/events/north-american-snow-conference

Project of the Year Awards

The Project of the Year recognizes excellence in management and administration of successfully completed Public Works projects.  Join our committee to assist in winner selection and event production!

To learn more, visit our page: washington.apwa.org/awards/project-of-the-year/

ROADeo

The Annual Equipment ROADeo is a chance for participants across the state to test their skills by maneuvering machinery through equipment specific obstacle courses. This working sub-group is under the umbrella of the Maintenance Committee. Join us to assist in putting on this National qualifying event!

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/events/roadeo

Sustainability Award

The APWA Public Works Sustainability Project of the Year Award was established to promote excellence in the management, administration and implementation of sustainable goals and practices in the delivery of public works projects. Join this committee to help with judging and organization!

Student Outreach & Scholarship

We help connect young people with opportunities to pursue careers in public works through student chapters, networking with public works professionals, supporting senior capstone projects and internships.

To learn more, see our page: washington.apwa.org/scholarship

Once you've found a committee you're interested in, check the Committee Directory and contact the chair of the appropriate committee.  Remember, not all committees are available to join without an invitation.

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