Public Works Podcast

Joseph Blackman
  • 4.8 (24)
  • GOVERNMENT
  • UPDATED DAILY

Where you come to hear new innovative ideas in the Public Works arena. Stories, trials and tribulations and more. We highlight those who are working behind-the-scenes to keep our communities in motion.

  1. 19H AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Jamie Lai Episode

    Episode Title: "Maximum Impact: Public Works Leadership in a Small but mighty City" Episode Summary: Join us for an insightful conversation with Jamie Lai, Public Works Director for the City of Yorba Linda! In this episode of The Public Works Podcast, host Shane Silsby sits down with Jamie to explore her professional journey, the unique challenges and advantages of leading a smaller public works agency, and the critical role partnerships play in delivering infrastructure projects. Key Topics:  🎯Jamie's career path from private sector to County of Orange to Anaheim to Yorba Linda 🎯Leadership lessons and what it takes to manage a small, agile public works team 🎯The importance of regional partnerships and collaboration 🎯Recent project highlights including the Bastanchury Road reconstruction 🎯Career advice for aspiring public works leaders  🎯How smaller agencies offer diverse experiences and faster decision-making TIMESTAMPS:  0:00 - Introduction & Welcome 1:06 - Jamie's Professional Journey & Education 6:10 - Pivotal Moments & Mentors 7:20 - The ARTIC Project Experience 10:43 - Leading a Smaller Agency 13:57 - Team Management & Career Development 17:50 - The Power of Partnerships 21:43 - Building Regional Relationships 25:10 - Recent Project Highlights 27:47 - Bastanchury Road Project Success 35:36 - Career Advice for Aspiring Leaders 41:45 - What Motivates Jamie 43:21 - What the Public Should Know About Public Works 46:24 - Closing Thoughts 💡 Key Takeaways: ✅ Smaller agencies offer broader experience and faster implementation ✅ Strong partnerships amplify limited resources  ✅ Investing time in design prevents costly construction changes ✅ Building relationships through networking creates long-term success ✅ Public works touches everything in our built environment 👍 ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? Subscribe to The Public Works Podcast for more conversations with leaders shaping our communities! Like this video and share it with colleagues in the public works field. Drop your questions or topic suggestions in the comments below - we read and respond to every one! 🔗 CONNECT WITH US: Follow ‪@ThePublicWorksPodcast‬ to stay updated on new episodes highlighting the people, projects, and partnerships that keep our communities running. The Public Works Podcast is dedicated to raising awareness and credibility of the public works profession by showcasing the professionals who design, build, and maintain the infrastructure we rely on every day. #TPWP #ThePublicWorksPodcast #publicworks #publicservice #localgovernments #infrastructure Ask

    48 min

  2. 19H AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Vic Bianes Episode

    Episode Title: "Mentorship, Public Service, and Supporting the Next Generation" Episode Summary: Welcome to The Public Works Podcast! In this episode, host Shane Silsby sits down with Vic Bianes, President of the American Public Works Association, to discuss his decades-long career, leadership lessons, workforce development, and the future of public works. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Meet Vic Bianes 03:00 – Vic’s Path to Public Works and Early Career Lessons 15:40 – Workforce Development & Mentorship in Public Works 36:15 – APWA Leadership, Initiatives & National Impact 51:10 – Infrastructure Funding, Advocacy & Industry Trends 57:50 – Final Thoughts, Getting Involved & Closing About the Guest: Vic Bianes is a lifelong public servant, engineer, and current President of the American Public Works Association. His career spans local and national leadership, with a passion for mentorship and advancing the profession. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a comment, and share with someone passionate about building better communities! #PublicWorks #Leadership #Infrastructure #TPWP #APWA #Mentorship #WorkforceDevelopment #NextGeneration #localgovernment

    50 min

  3. 19H AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Derek Fuller and vialytics Episode

    Episode Title: Road to Efficiency: Lessons from Lower Makefield Twp. & vialytics on Smarter Pavement Management  Episode Summary & Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction & Episode Overview Meet your host, Shane Silsby, and get an overview of the challenges in modernizing pavement management for local governments. 02:20 – Meet the Guests Introduction of Derek Fuller (Public Works Director, Lower Makefield Township, PA) and Marcello Garofalo (VP, vialytics). 03:34 – Derek’s Background & Township Operations Derek shares his career path, the scope of his department, and unique services like leaf collection. 06:04 – Road Maintenance Challenges in Cold Climates Discussion on freeze-thaw cycles, flexible pavements, and the importance of sealing roads. 08:24 – The Value of Roadway Assets Why roadways are the township’s largest asset and the cost implications. 09:21 – Marcello’s Background & vialytics Overview Marcello explains his career, the vialytics platform, and its expansion into the US. 11:41 – Pressures & Pain Points in Modernization Derek discusses the challenges of justifying modernization, capturing institutional knowledge, and moving toward data-driven decisions. 15:56 – Asset Management Framework & Data-Driven Decisions How objective data and AI tools like vialytics help optimize pavement treatment strategies. 18:39 – Common Issues in Pavement Management Nationwide Funding and personnel challenges faced by public works departments. 21:51 – Digital Assessments & Benefits of vialytics Marcello shares customer feedback, benefits of rapid data collection, and misconceptions about digital asset management. 25:25 – How Data is Collected with vialytics Details on the technology, process, and types of data collected (PCI, signs, manholes, etc.). 28:28 – Routine Operations & Lessons Learned Derek explains how the township uses vialytics in daily operations and adapts to challenges like weather and leaf coverage. 32:11 – Efficiency Gains & Workflow Improvements How vialytics streamlines work orders, asset tracking, and increases operational efficiency. 35:52 – Funding & Paying for Modernization Discussion on funding sources, state allocations, and the cost-effectiveness of digital tools. 39:21 – Asset Management Impact & Operational Changes How vialytics improves hazard detection, work order management, and overall efficiency. 44:04 – Advice & Lessons Learned for Other Municipalities Derek’s advice for peers considering modernization: keep it simple, leverage existing technology, and focus on efficiency. 47:13 – Final Thoughts & Where to Learn More Marcello and Derek share closing thoughts, and Marcello provides contact info for vialytics. Closing: Thank you to our guests and this episode's sponsor - vialytics. To learn more about vialytics or to get your own free evaluation, visit www.vialytics.com . Finally, don't forget to subscribe to The Public Works Podcast channel for more episodes. #PublicWorks #LeadersSpeak #Infrastructure #Engineering #TPWP

    50 min

  4. 20H AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Kathryn Sorensen Episode

    Episode Title:  “Securing Our Water Future: Management, Financing, and Affordability in the American West” Episode Summary: Join host Shane Silsby on The Public Works Podcast as he interviews Dr. Kathryn Sorensen, Director of Research at the Kyl Center for Water Policy at Arizona State University. Dr. Sorensen shares her expertise on water management, the challenges facing the Colorado River, groundwater sustainability, infrastructure modernization, and strategies for keeping water affordable and accessible. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of water in the American West and beyond. Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction & Guest Background 01:32 – Kathryn’s Career Journey in Water Policy 03:55 – The Importance of Water in the American West 05:23 – Colorado River: Challenges & Over-Allocation 08:01 – States, Tribes, and Mexico: Who Shares the Colorado River? 10:24 – Agriculture vs. Urban Water Use 12:41 – Government Roles: Federal, State, Local, and Tribal 15:04 – Federal Funding & Drought Mitigation 17:00 – Can We Increase Water Supply? (Desal, Cloud Seeding, Reuse) 19:52 – Groundwater: Arizona’s Approach & National Lessons 23:50 – Protecting Aquifers & Water Rights 26:47 – Infrastructure: Aging Systems & Modernization Priorities 29:59 – Financing Water Projects: Rates, Bonds, and Partnerships 4:17 – Affordability & Rate Structures 37:00 – Innovations in Water Management 39:00 – What Gives Kathryn Hope for the Future 41:00 – Final Thoughts & Closing Stay in touch: Follow 👍 LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to support The Public Works Podcast and help us highlight the people shaping better communities! For more episodes and resources, visit www.thepublicworkspodcast.com. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with your colleagues! #PublicWorks #LeadersSpeak #Infrastructure #Engineering #TPWP #WATER

    51 min

  5. 1D AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Marsie Geldert-Murphey Episode

    Episode Title: Resilient Infrastructure & Public Service as "Opportunities" Episode Summary: Join host Shane Silsby as he interviews Marcia "Marsie" Geldert-Murphey, an accomplished civil engineer, former ASCE president, and Illinois State Senate candidate. Marsie shares her journey from environmental advocacy in South Dakota to leading major infrastructure projects and championing resilient, community-focused public works. Discover why engineers are essential in policymaking, the value of long-term investment, and how infrastructure creates opportunity for communities and the workforce.  Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Marsie’s background 01:07 – Marsie’s path to civil engineering 03:24 – Early career and joining IDOT 05:07 – Defining moments: The Clark Bridge project 08:44 – Leadership in ASCE and the infrastructure report card 13:23 – The importance of resilience in infrastructure 16:40 – Economic ripple effects: Levee improvements and community growth 20:24 – Why engineers belong in legislative roles 24:00 – Advice for young engineers and public service 27:11 – Marsie’s campaign, community engagement, and closing thoughts Learn more: Check out Marsie for Illinois at: www.marsieforillinois.info Connect with us an LinkedIn & follow on social media: @ThePublicWorksPodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping our communities!

    53 min

  6. 1D AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Mary Joyce Ivers Episode

    Episode Summary: In this episode of The Public Works Podcast, host Shane Silsby interviews Mary Joyce Ivers from the City of Ventura, a leader in public works with a distinguished career at both local and national levels, including serving as president of the American Public Works Association (APWA). The conversation covers Mary Joyce’s career journey, leadership insights, major projects, emergency response, her role in APWA, and the challenges and opportunities presented by California’s advanced clean fleet regulations. The episode also explores the importance of advocacy, work-life balance, and advice for the next generation of public works professionals.  Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Guest Welcome 01:03 – Mary Joyce’s Background and Entry into Public Works 04:08 – Career Growth, Leadership, and Team Building 07:46 – Major Projects, Community Impact, and Emergency Response 11:07 – APWA Involvement and National Leadership 15:01 – Leadership Lessons and Bringing Insights Back to Ventura 16:22 – Advanced Clean Fleet Regulations: Challenges & Opportunities 23:41 – Legislative Solutions and Practicalities for Local Government 28:04 – Coastal Community Challenges & City of Ventura Initiatives 33:00 – Advice for Future Public Works Professionals 36:24 – Final Thoughts & Closing Stay in touch: Follow 👍 LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to support The Public Works Podcast and help us highlight the people shaping better communities! #PublicWorks #LeadersSpeak #Infrastructure #Engineering #TPWP

    37 min

  7. 1D AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Mark Toy Episode

    Episode Summary: In this episode of The Public Works Podcast, host Shane Silsby interviews Mark Toy, General Manager of the Yorba Linda Water District and former Major General in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Mark shares his journey from military service to local government leadership, discusses the challenges and innovations in water management, and offers insights on leadership, mentorship, and legacy in public service. The conversation covers career transitions, infrastructure projects, water district operations, and advice for aspiring leaders in public works. Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction & Guest Welcome 00:24 – Mark Toy’s Early Career and Military Path 03:20 – Lessons from the Army: Leadership & Mentorship 11:07 – Transition to Local Government & the Yorba Linda Water District 20:44 – Water Infrastructure Projects & PFAS Treatment 24:27 – Wildfire Mitigation and Community Safety 28:48 – Leadership Philosophy & Advice for Young Professionals 34:04 – Legacy, Recruitment, and Organizational Culture 37:13 – Final Thoughts and Closing Stay in touch: Follow 👍 LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to support The Public Works Podcast and help us highlight the people shaping better communities! #PublicWorks #Water #Infrastructure #Engineering #TPWP #YLWD

    38 min

  8. 1D AGO

    The Public Works Podcast: Hye Jin Lee Episode

    Episode Title: Reimagining Public Works for a Growing City: Insights from Hye Jin Lee Episode Summary: Join host Shane Silsby for an inspiring conversation with Hye Jin Lee, Director of Public Works for the City of Chino, California. Hye Jin shares her journey from consulting engineer to municipal leader, and how she's building a culture of excellence in public service. In this episode, we explore what it takes to lead a full-service public works department in a rapidly growing city, the importance of team culture, and how innovation and collaboration are shaping the future of infrastructure in Southern California. Timestamps:  0:00 - Introduction & Welcome 1:32 - Meet Hye Jin Lee, Director of Public Works 2:31 - Hye Jin's Journey: From Veterinarian Dreams to Civil Engineering 3:50 - Why Municipal Engineering? Making a Local Impact 4:54 - Building Parks & Seeing Community Impact 6:00 - First Priorities as Director: Building Team Culture 7:17 - Leading 127 Employees & $120M Capital Budget 8:33 - Chino's Strategic Location & "Open for Business" Philosophy 10:22 - Breaking Down Silos: Creating a Unified Team Culture 12:58 - Visiting the Field & Learning from Crews 13:43 - Innovation in Public Works: AI for Infrastructure Assessment 16:03 - Curb Appeal: Streets as Business Invitations 18:19 - The Pine Avenue Project: 20 Years in the Making 20:59 - Building Partnerships Across Jurisdictions 22:47 - Challenges Ahead: Growth, Workforce & Level of Service 25:27 - Advice for Aspiring Public Works Leaders 27:41 - Improving Communication Skills in Engineering 29:03 - Closing Thoughts & Thank You ABOUT HYE JIN LEE: Hye Jin Lee is a licensed professional engineer with a career rooted in public service and infrastructure leadership. She leads the City of Chino's full-service Public Works department, overseeing water, sewer, streets, parks, fleet maintenance, and capital improvements. CONNECT WITH US: Please subscribe to this channel on YouTube: ‪@ThePublicWorksPodcast‬ 🔗 LinkedIn: ‪@ThePublicWorksPodcast‬ 📧 Contact: info@thepublicworkspodcast.com 🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with public works leaders.  #PublicWorks #CivilEngineering #Leadership #Infrastructure #MunicipalEngineering #Chino #California #PublicService #TeamCulture #Innovation #LocalGovernments #TPWP

    30 min
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4.8
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Where you come to hear new innovative ideas in the Public Works arena. Stories, trials and tribulations and more. We highlight those who are working behind-the-scenes to keep our communities in motion.

Information

  • Creator
    Joseph Blackman
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    393
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Joseph Blackman
  • Show Website
    Public Works Podcast

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