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region. The team consistently acted quickly in the Memphis area. The networking How have you been able to transfer
to clear roads and restore full operational opportunities at these TCAPWA events your experience from TCAPWA to your
status to the base. facilitate easy communication with Public work in your department (or vice versa,
After retiring from the Marine Corps Works peers to discuss and learn how they
as a Colonel with 36 years of service, address similar challenges. how have you been able to take your
the decision to pursue a career in Public How does your city support your experiences from your department to
Works was an easy one. I joined the Port the rest of the TCAPWA community?)
of San Diego as the Assistant Director of involvement with TCAPWA? I consider myself a lifelong learner and
General Services, managing maintenance The City of Germantown has a long and challenge my staff to do the same. One
operations for facilities, ship terminals, deep-rooted commitment to TCAPWA. of the critical challenges facing the Public
vehicle and vessel fleets, water systems, and This dedication is exemplified by the active Works sector today is the need to cultivate
rail infrastructure. I held this position from participation of our former Director, Bo future leaders as our current leadership
2019 until 2025, when I accepted the Public Mills, who served with distinction in ages. Being new to TCAPWA, I was excited
Works Director position in Germantown. leadership roles at both the Tennessee to see that the chapter promotes and offers
How did you find out about TCAPWA, Chapter and the national APWA level. His a diverse range of training opportunities
and how did you get involved initially? contributions set a precedent for the city’s designed to enhance the knowledge and
ongoing support and engagement.
When did you join? The City of Germantown continues skills of Public Works professionals across
the state.
I became a member of the San Diego/ its strong support for TCAPWA, notably This not only ensures a continuous
Imperial County Chapter in 2019 while by serving as the host city for the 2025 pipeline of qualified individuals but also
working at the Port of San Diego. I quickly TCAPWA/SWANA annual conference. As fosters innovation and efficiency within
recognized the significant value of APWA part of these responsibilities, Germantown the industry at all levels. TCAPWA’s
as a comprehensive resource and advocate also led the organization of the annual commitment to building a sustainable and
for Public Works professionals and Equipment Rodeo, a competitive event resilient Public Works workforce ensures
agencies. showcasing the skills of Public Works that the profession remains dynamic,
I have had the privilege of attending equipment operators. innovative, and capable of addressing
several PWX events, which offered Germantown consistently champions evolving challenges, while meeting the
immense benefits through their employee involvement with TCAPWA. operational requirements and fiscal
educational, training, and networking This support is integrated into our constraints of our communities.
opportunities. During my time in San operational framework through dedicated I was privileged for the opportunity to
Diego, I actively participated in organizing budget allocations for employee training work with Mills for four months prior to
the chapter’s annual Roadeo, including the and travel to conferences. his retirement. He was a true professional
2023 San Diego PWX Roadeo. These funds ensure staff access to who took the time to introduce me to the
When I transitioned to my current the latest industry advancements, best job, the city, and its residents, while getting
role, joining TCAPWA was a seamless practices, and networking opportunities, me snapped into the position.
and essential step. The local events have underscoring the city’s commitment to If we get a chance to meet, please call
provided me with valuable opportunities continuous professional development, me by my pilot callsign – “Oz” and I might
to connect and learn from fellow Public and recognizing TCAPWA’s vital role in share the war story on how I acquired this
Works Directors and industry professionals enhancing Public Works capabilities. name.

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