Public Works Professionals Worldwide Gather In San Diego For Annual PWX Conference

Conference highlights clean energy innovations, the latest equipment advancements, and infrastructure best practices

The American Public Works Association’s (APWA) annual Public Works Expo, also known as the PWX Conference, will draw thousands of public works professionals from across the globe to San Diego from Aug. 27-30 to discuss important issues and developments in all aspects of public works, including clean energy innovations, the latest equipment advancements, infrastructure best practices, and more.

More than 5,000 participants are expected to attend the PWX Conference at the San Diego Convention Center, which will feature a first-class multi-modal learning experience through a variety of exhibits, more than 175 education sessions, workshops, and technical tours designed for professionals at all levels and across the entire spectrum of public works.

“The PWX Conference brings together industry experts and public works professionals from around the world to delve into the crucial topics shaping our field,” said APWA CEO Scott Grayson, CAE. “The event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest products, services, and trending technologies specific to public works, while also equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in their jobs.”

Conference-goers will have the opportunity to mingle at opening night festivities at the USS Midway Museum, visit facilities like Pure Water San Diego, participate in special events like the PWX golf and pickelball tournaments, attend technical tours, and more.

“The PWX Conference provides an invaluable platform to network, learn, and stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry,” said APWA President Keith Pugh, PE, PWLF. “With new education formats, an innovations and technologies showcase, and more peer-to-peer opportunities than ever before, PWX 2023 is an exciting learning environment for public works professionals at all stages of their careers.”

In addition to educational sessions and workshops, PWX 2023 Conference highlights include:

• Aug. 27: Keynote speaker Morris Morrison kicks off the conference during the Opening Ceremony where he focuses on building stronger, kinder, focused human beings.
• Aug. 28: Equipment operators can participate in two competitions during the National Equipment Roadeo at the San Diego Embarcadero Marina:
  • Backhoe Competition where competitors will be rated on how fast and smooth they can maneuver a designated machine through a maze, which simulates many tasks that are performed daily in the general public works environment.
  • Mini Excavator where competitors will be rated on speed, agility, and finesse in performing multiple complex skills in hanging, stacking, and knocking over objects in a mini excavator.
• Aug. 29: Keynote speaker Jessica Kriegel, known as an expert on facilitating cultural change using a scientific lens, will use data-driven insights and humor to talk about how to overcome poor morale, low performance, and missed financial goals.
• Aug. 30: Keynote speaker Neal Petersen, known for completing a nine-month 27,000-mile yacht race around the world, will conclude the conference with an inspirational take on overcoming obstacles that can transform attitudes by looking at setbacks and barriers in a different way.

For more information about the PWX Conference, or to register for this year’s event, visit www.apwa.org/events/pwx-conference/.

About APWA
The American Public Works Association (APWA) is a not-for-profit, international organization of more than 32,000 members involved in the field of public works. APWA serves its members by promoting professional excellence and public awareness through education, advocacy, and the exchange of knowledge. APWA is headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., has an office in Washington, DC, and 62 chapters and 97 branches throughout North America.