Public Works Institute – Northern California

Module #3 (Feb 2026): Basic Management Skills Organizational Theory Managing Construction Presentation Skills Organizational Culture Finance Customer Service Basic Project Management Decision Making Conducting Effective Meetings Managing Consultants Succession Planning/Retirement Planning

Module #4 (April/May 2026): APWA Organization & PWI Structure Overview of the Public Works Process People Skills Defining Excellence in Public Works Media Relations Leadership Styles Ethics Emergency Management Information & Records Management Maintenance Management Systems Succession Planning/Retirement Planning Dealing with Internal & External Customers Community Diversity & Services Excellence in Public Works

Public Works Institutes are a chapter-based certificate program focused on supervision and management practices within all areas of Public Works.

What Topics are Covered?

Each Institute adheres to the set of core areas of study noted below. Specific topics under these 11 core areas may vary based on local, regional, and state responsibilities or regulations:

• Supervisory Techniques & Skills
• Basic Management Skills
• Communications Skills
• Leadership Skills
• Community Service/Customer Orientation Skills
• Impact of Law on Public Works
• Fundamentals of Government
• Finance
• Overview of Public Works Operations
• Creating the Future
• Resource Management Skills

Who Should Attend?

The Institute content is designed to address the supervisory and management needs of current first-line supervisors and up, and those individuals aspiring to be better leaders and supervisors.

When are Classes Offered?

Northern California offers classes two times a year, February/March and September/October.  The courses are offered in order.

Who to Contact?

For more information, please contact Rich Cunningham or the Chapter Administrator