Richard Hyle: Sewer Collection Superintendent @ City of San Bernardino Municipal Water Department, CA
Richard Heath Hyle, the new Sewer Collection Superintendent at the City of San Bernardino Municipal Water Department, who was recently promoted after serving as the sewer collection supervisor. Richard Heath Hyle explained that sewer collections transport waste through underground pipelines, and the San Bernardino system serves over 200,000 people with 500 miles of pipe and 10 lift stations. Richard Heath Hyle shared that his team of nine crew members manages the system with four trucks and a CCTV van, emphasizing the importance of drive, self-motivation, and strong interpersonal skills for a superintendent. The key discussion points included Richard Heath Hyle's career transition from water to wastewater, the value of trades, challenges in hiring and retaining talent, innovative training methods like a mock maintenance hole for spill response, and the need for continuous improvement and inter-departmental collaboration. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.
--------
37:35
--------
37:35
Alleigh Weems: Senior Management Analyst @ City of Topeka
Alleigh Weems, Senior Management Analyst at the city of Topeka, described her role supporting the public works department, focusing on procurement, capital improvement, and successful grant acquisition, including a nearly $5 million Safe Streets and Roads for All grant and a $25 million RAISE grant. She emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, professional networking, and stepping outside one's comfort zone for growth, despite challenges like federal funding freezes. Weems shared that a "win" is receiving a simple "thank you" for helping colleagues and that her community involvement enhances her public service. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.
--------
37:51
--------
37:51
Linnea Rader: Director of Finance and Human Resources at Van Buren County Road Commission
Linnea Rader, Director of Finance and Human Resources at Van Buren County Road Commission, who shared insights into her varied role encompassing financial management and human resources, including union negotiations and recruitment strategies. Linnea Rader discussed Michigan's unique road commission structure, her career progression, and key skill sets for her role, emphasizing the human element in HR and continuous learning. She also detailed the Michigan Public Service Institute (MPSI) leadership program and her personal initiative, "Lead with Lana," both focused on soft skills and leadership development. Give the episode a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.
--------
43:23
--------
43:23
Sherri McMahon: Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Administrator @ Public Works Department of Las Vegas, NV
Sherri McMahon, the Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Administrator for the Public Works Department of Las Vegas, Nevada. Sherri McMahon explained that her role involves managing environmental programs for the City of Las Vegas, ensuring compliance with state and EPA regulations, and that the city faces unique environmental challenges due to stormwater runoff pollution, over 42 million annual visitors, and air quality concerns. Sherri McMahon highlighted the importance of education over penalties in enforcement, shared her extensive career path, and emphasized communication skills, particularly technical writing and public speaking, as crucial for environmental careers, while also discussing issues with "flushable" wipes and recommending Holsteins for burgers in Las Vegas. Give the episdoe a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.
--------
47:07
--------
47:07
Lindsay Hughes: Founder of Tappedin Public Relations
Lindsay Hughes, founder of Tappedin Public Relations, who shared expertise on strategic communication for utilities, focusing on building trust and managing crises through transparent and empathetic messaging. Lindsay Hughes detailed strategies for multi-channel communication, tailored messaging, internal preparedness, and the importance of proactive community engagement while maintaining brand neutrality. Lindsay Hughes also highlighted leveraging AI for communication and outlined their agency's process for supporting existing communication teams or establishing foundational elements for organizations without one.
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.
Colombia