New England Chapter APWA
President’s Message 2024
I hope this message finds you well in the New Year. It is with great humility and enthusiasm that I assume the role of President for our esteemed chapter for 2024. Recognizing the rich history and legacy we hold as leaders among APWA chapters only deepens my commitment to serving in this role.
As we kick off the new year, I am thrilled to share some changes within our leadership. Molly Otero is taking on the crucial role of Secretary/Treasurer, succeeding Jaqui Connors, who served admirably for 11 years. A heartfelt thank you to Jaqui for her dedicated service, and a warm welcome to Molly – we look forward to the fresh perspectives she brings.
Looking ahead, a primary goal for this year is to grow our membership and encourage greater involvement from our membership in our committees and programs. Your participation is vital in shaping the future of our chapter and advancing the goals of public works in our region. I encourage each of you to get involved and inspire your colleagues to do the same. Feel free to reach out to any of the committee chairs or myself if you are interested in becoming more involved in the Chapter.
I am excited to announce a significant initiative to gain recognition for our front-line employees from APWA National as “associate” members. These individuals are the face of public works, directly interacting with our residents. By including them in APWA, we not only acknowledge their crucial role but also empower them to see themselves as First Responders. This step not only strengthens our profession but also aids in garnering the recognition our front-line workers deserve.
As we navigate through the winter months where most of us are focused on snow operations and budgetary concerns, I am eagerly anticipating the NEAPWA Spring Conference on April 8th. The event will take place at a new and exciting venue, the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, CT. This change promises a refreshing experience, bringing together professionals from various backgrounds to share insights and knowledge. We will have the full run of the museum, including the use of flight simulators – should be a unique and fun experience.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the NEAPWA Vermont Equipment Show on May 8th in Barre, Vermont, the National Public Works Week Luncheon on May 22nd at Granite Links Country Club in Quincy, Massachusetts, and the Summer Conference June 12-14th at the Seacrest in North Falmouth, Massachusetts. These events provide invaluable opportunities for networking, learning, and celebrating the incredible contributions of public works professionals.
This year, our National Conference, PWX, will be held in Atlanta, Georgia, in early September, and our Chapter Dinner Committee is already working on finding a great venue for our Chapter Dinner in this exciting city.
In closing, I want to express my gratitude to each one of you for being part of – Public Works. Whether you are a consultant, material supplier, or Public Works Director, you play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for the residents we serve – you make a difference. Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, united in our commitment to improve and support Public Works!
Looking forward to a great 2024!
Thomas J. Roy, PE
NEAPWA President