Working in Public Works Student Forum

Working in Public Works Student Forum

Sponsored by: Municipal World

Looking for a long-term career that offers development, benefits and a wide variety of possibilities? Have you thought about the municipal sector?

The wave of retirements currently hitting Ontario's municipalities will continue for the next 5-10 years. In this time, over 50% of municipal employees will be eligible for retirement! As municipalities provide the essential services that are key to maintaining a high quality of life, it is imperative that they be staffed by qualified and competent individuals. This rings truest in public works. Those working in this field help ensure that our infrastructure doesn't collapse, that our roads remain clear, and that our water is safe to drink.

As part of the 2020 OGRA Conference, students will have the opportunity to speak directly with public works professionals about the important work they do every day. A panel of public works professionals will share their thoughts and experiences with students interested in this type of career. Students in attendance will learn:

• Why they should consider a career in municipal public works;
• The type of knowledge, skills, abilities/competencies, or qualifications one must have to work for their municipality;
• What it takes to succeed;
• The opportunities for growth;
• How the industry is evolving; and
• What to expect in this line of work.

The panel discussion will be followed by a networking session. Students will have the opportunity to speak directly to those working in the field of municipal public works. Those with a background in engineering and engineering technology are encouraged to attend.

Speakers

• Chris Traini, County Engineer & Deputy CAO, Middlesex County
• Darnell Bernardo, Supervisor, Roads Administration, Norfolk County
• Don Kudo, County Engineer, County of Wellington
• Mara Engel, Operations Technologist, City of Kitchener
• Janelle Warren, Manager, Professional Development & Training, Ontario Good Roads Association
• Dan Hughes, Municipal Recruiting Specialist, Municipal World

Opening Reception

Following the Working in Public Works Student Forum, attendees are invited to the OGRA Conference's opening reception from 5:00-6:30 pm. The reception is a great place to meet other leaders within the municipal sector.

Note: Registration to the Working in Public Works Student Forum grants access to the entire OGRA Conference (excluding ticketed events) as a Student Delegate. Check out the entire conference agenda here.

For more information please visit the OGRA Conference website or contact Thomas Barakat, OGRA Senior Policy Advisor: thomas@ogra.org

FAQs

Is there a cost to attend this event?

Yes, there is a $20 charge (+HST and fees).

Do I have to bring my ticket to the event?

Yes, bring your printed or Eventbrite mobile ticket to the registration desk at Tudor 7/8 on the Main Mezzanine Level to receive your Student Delegate badge.

Are there ID requirements to enter the event?

Yes, current students may be asked to provide a valid student ID card from an accredited university or college. Recent grads: please bring your most recent student ID card even if it has expired.

Can I attend other sessions at the OGRA Conference?

Yes, once registered for the Working in Public Works Student Forum, Student Delegates can attend all sessions at the 2020 OGRA Conference (excludes ticketed events such as the OGRA Awards Luncheon).

***Pre-registration ends at 11:59 pm on Wednesday, February 19. However, on-site registration is available on Sunday, February 23.***

Disclaimer: By registering for the Working in Public Works Student Forum, attendees will automatically be enrolled to receive promotional material from Municipal World. To opt-out, please email thomas@ogra.org.