Public Works Podcast - Joseph Blackman

Latest Episodes:

Marvin Bailey: Wastewater Plant Operator III @ Kern Sanitation Authority Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

Meet Marvin, our guest on today's episode, who currently holds the position of Wastewater Plant Operator III at Kern Sanitation Authority in Taft, California. In our conversation, Marvin opens up about his transformative journey, leaving his past behind, and finding fulfillment in his rewarding career. We delve into the challenges he faced, including obtaining a Wastewater Certification while in prison, and the hurdles of securing a position with a record. Take a moment to tune in and gain valuable insights into Marvin's resilience and dedication. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Jessica Gonzalez: Training Coordinator @ City of Houston, TX Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

Jessica, serving as the Training Coordinator for The City of Houston, Texas, joins us in this episode to delve into her pivotal role within the LEAP Academy. As a valuable member of the new-hire orientation team, she actively contributes to shaping individual journeys for every incoming employee. Throughout our conversation, Jessica generously shares insights into her personal journey and the inception of BrandingClip, shedding light on its purpose and creation. Take a moment to tune in and gain a deeper understanding of Jessica's multifaceted role, and don't forget to express your gratitude to the dedicated Public Works Professionals in your local community.

Dustin Stambaugh: City Administrator @ City of Ellsworth, KS Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

Dustin is the City Administrator for the City of Ellsworth in Kansas. Dustin is in the process of rejuvenating a Public Works Department within Ellsworth and he is the right person for the job. We chat about all things Workforce Development and culture. We also cover "Ctitizenship Academy" a concept that is new to me and how it can help bridge the knowledge gap with the City and its constituents. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works professionals.

John Leezy: Wastewater Collections Supervisor @ City of Wentzville, Missouri Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

John is the Wastewater Collections Supervisor in the City of Wentzville Missouri. John and I talked about his start as a factory worker to him becoming a collectins supervisor. We also chat about the best way to show thanks to a Public Works Operator in the field. John has a some great stories and a anecdotes who are working with multiple generations in the same department. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Vineet Kapila: Construction Project Superintendent @ City of Columbia, Missouri Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

Vineet is the Construction Project Superintendent at the City of Columbia in Missouri. Vineet and I chat about his career path from roofing, to being an operator and now a Superintendent. We also cover topics like weightlifting for mental health and also his succesfull completion of APWA's Emerging Leaders Academy. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Janice Allen Jackson: Management Consultant/Podcaster/Local Government Expert Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

Janice is the Principal of Janice Allen Jackson & Associates LLC. Janice has spent many years in the Public Sector before using her gift/skills/talents helping municipalites navigate the waters of current day. We discuss an interesting concept of "Startup Cities" and what it entails. We also chat about her Local Matter Podcast of Georgia. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Franky Lazo: Assistant Director, Recreation and Parks @ Boynton Beach, FL Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

Franky is the Assistant Director of Recreation and Parks in Boynton Beach Florida. We use a healthy amount of Baseball analogies in discussing his career path and what he currently does for the city. We also chat about how Adaptability and Transparency keeps a healthy department. Franky wants us all to Aim High in all we do. Make sure to give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Jamie Curreri: Public Works Director @ Boulder City, NV Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

Jamie is the Director of Public Works for the City of Boulder City in Nevada. Jamie and I chat about how parenting has helped him tremendously with being a director and also we talk about his path from being a Crane Mechanic to the position he is currently in. We cover tipics like love and hugs in the workplace and why patience is powerful. GIve the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Chris Evers: Co-Founder of PWD Roundtable, Executive Coordinator of FPPC, Technical Representative at Pavement Technology, Inc Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

Chris is the Co-Founder of PWD Roundtable, Executive Coordinator of FPPC and also a Technical Representative at Pavement Technology, Inc. We chat about the great work he has done over the years for APWA and how he achieved the Top 10 award for his service. We also cover topics like how to use associations to network and also why giving is the best way to receive in business. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.

Ray Belton: THRIVE Director @ City of Houston, TX Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

Ray is the THRIVE Director for the City of Houston in Texas. He gives us the rundown on what his position dose and why he is the "Culture Mechanic." We talk about his background from being a mechanic and having a checkered past to how he was able to ascend within the city's ranks. We also talk about workplace culture and what to look for within your own department for red flags or praise-points. Give the show a listen and remember to thank your local Public Works Professionals.