Opening Session Lunch

 Orange County Convention Center

W340 (Sunburst Room)

Tuesday, April 29

11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Keynote speaker: Thomas Bryer, Pegasus Professor (the highest recognition granted to a professor) in the School of Public Administration at the University of Central Florida

Topic: Building Legacies

President's Reception

 Hotel - Poolside Upper Deck

Tuesday, April 29

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

This year’s festivities begin with the President’s Reception. Enjoy food, drinks, and live entertainment. And of course, spend time with your fellow Public Works Professionals.

Technical Tour (OCCC Behind the Scenes)

Orange County Convention Center

Meet at the Expo Registration

*Open to the first 150 people registered!

Wednesday, April 30

10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Join us for an exclusive look at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), designed specifically for APWA Public Works Expo attendees. This tour showcases the cutting-edge infrastructure behind one of the nation’s largest convention centers, including water management systems, energy-efficient operations, and sustainable initiatives. Explore how the OCCC handles stormwater drainage, waste management, and logistics for large-scale events, all while maintaining a world-class facility. 

Be sure to bring your walking shoes as we take you behind the scenes to discover engineering excellence, operational efficiency, and innovative solutions in action!


Defensive Driving for CMV Drivers (certification class) 

Orange County Convention Center

CC - W315

Wednesday, April 30

9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

There are many work-related injuries, fatalities, and related insurance claims that occur in jobs that involve driving?  This underscores the urgent need for defensive driving skills to be high on the list of priorities when designing a public works training program. To prevent injuries or fatalities, its crucial for drivers to understand the true meaning of defensive driving and be able to apply those learned skills in the driving environment in which they work. Furthermore, there are unique challenges faced by Commercial Motor vehicle Drivers, especially those that work for government agencies, even with those drivers with extensive experience. Upon completing this program, drivers will be able to:

• Explain how being prepared impacts defensive driving• Identify ways to communicate with and receive signals from other drivers

• Demonstrate how to look for hazards by scanning the road ahead and using mirrors

• Recognize how to effectively manage speed and space and how attitude affects our driving.

Join us for this certification class, located near the Roadeo Event, to attend, participate and discuss how we can improve our workforce as it relates to defensive driving.  Peter Cavalli, MPA of Tampa Bay Training will be making this 2-hour presentation and will focus on defensive driving skills as they relate workforce development. Successful attendance and completion of the class will lead to the issuance of a wallet card and certificate mailed to you shortly after the APWA Expo.


General Session Panel Lunch 

Orange County Convention Center

CC - W340 (Sunburst Room)

Wednesday, April 30

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

Topic: Building Legacies Through APWA Public Works Accreditation

Learn from four Florida agencies of varying sizes and experience how APWA Public Works Accreditation has helped to shape their organization and build a legacy of excellence. This panel will share practical steps, success stories, and tips for getting started, no matter your agency’s size or experience. Walk away with a clear roadmap to leverage accreditation for improved operations, communication, and resource management.


Awards/Scholarship Reception & Banquet

Rosen Plaza Hotel 

Ballroom CD

Wednesday, April 30

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

The Florida Chapter's Award Program offers an excellent opportunity to recognize projects, individuals, and firms for a job well done! Each year the Florida Chapter recognizes the award nominees at our Annual Expo. The Chapter will award $15,000 in Scholarships at the Banquet.  

Don't miss this prestigious event!

Public Works Director Roundtables & Lunch

Orange County Convention Center

CC - W230D

Thursday, May 1

11:00 am - 1:00 pm 

The Public Works Director Roundtable, a cornerstone of the Florida Public Works EXPO, brings together Public Works Directors and leaders from across the state for a dynamic two-hour forum. This year’s theme, Building Legacies, highlights mentorship and leadership development, encouraging Directors to bring emerging leaders from their departments. 

The event features small-group discussions on three key industry topics, followed by a larger group dialogue to share insights and foster collaboration. Participants will explore strategies for addressing evolving challenges while gaining tools to inspire and prepare the next generation of leaders. Concluding with the Public Works Director of the Year award, this gathering celebrates innovation, excellence, and the vital role of Public Works Directors in shaping resilient, sustainable communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to advance the profession and build a legacy for the future!

Cornhole Tournament

Orange County Convention Center

Exhibit Hall

Thursday, May 1

1:45 pm - 4:00 pm

Don't miss out on this exciting event and get ready to toss some bags, have fun, and make great connections with  professionals and veteran Public Works professionals alike from across the State of Florida at the Cornhole competition during the exhibit show.


Special Event Night & Young Professionals

Kings Entertainment

Thursday, May 1

7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Experience elevated gaming and entertainment at Kings. Indulge in late-night fun with bowling, billiards, and delectable fare, all set in a spacious, retro-chic environment. Transportation will be provided.