all levels of government, from local municipalities to federal agencies. With five dedicated staff members in its Washington D.C. office focusing on government affairs, the organization develops comprehensive public policy priorities centered on three key areas: emergency management, transportation, and water resiliency.“For every new Congress, we review these policies and our priorities,” Longobardi explains. The organization’s board includes 17 members, with six technical directors overseeing teams of volunteer experts who shape policy statements on crucial issues, including emerging technologies, like AI.These expert committees ensure APWA’s advocacy efforts accurately mirror industry needs. “When we actually go out and submit our policy priorities, they are what our industry needs,” Longobardi says.“One of our guiding purposes is to advocate on behalf of public works and the public works industry.” APWA’s influence similarly reaches deep into local governance through its 62 chapters across the United States and Canada. Each chapter has designated advocacy ambassadors who work at various governmental levels. “Whether it be from a local village right up to the governor of the state that they’re in, promoting all of the different things that we need,” Longobardi notes. The organization also creates policy maker primers, providing crucial guidance to decision-makers at all levels. The association’s rapid response capabilities further strengthen its advocacy impact. “Recently, we got a phone call from the White House, they needed somebody to testify in Congress,” Longobardi shares. “We try to be ready at a moment’s notice to provide the information that the government leaders need.” This readiness ensures public works perspectives are represented in critical policy discussions affecting infrastructure and community development. THE ROAD AHEAD: APWA’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, APWA has identified three primary areas of focus that will shape its efforts over the coming years. Workforce development remains at the forefront, with particular attention to building sustainable career paths in public works. The organization’s second priority centers on expanding 26 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 02
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