This year marks the 113th annual APWA International Congress and Exposition, the only North American conference and trade show dedicated exclusively to the all-encompassing field of public works.

APWA’s predecessor organization, the American Society for Municipal Improvements (ASMI), was formed in the 1890s. The first organization for municipal public works officials, ASMI later partnered with the International Association of Public Works Officials (IAPWO), laying the ground work for what would become APWA.

Chartered in 1937, APWA represents more than 28,500 members in 67 chapters throughout North America. Governed by a 17-member board of directors, the meeting will mark the induction of two new board members, as well as a new president and president-elect.

Nearly 7,000 industry professionals will attend the 2007 APWA International Congress and Exposition. Show attendees represent a wide range of professionals in the field of public works, including public works directors, engineers, department heads, administrators, private-sector employees and consultants.

About 84% of public agency attendees work in city government.

All 50 U.S. states and 13 Canadian provinces, in addition to several other countries, will be represented at the show.

Attendees will discover emerging trends, innovative solutions and best practices in public works during 120 technical and prefessional development sessions, including:

• Administrative Management
• Engineering/Construction Management
• Fleet
• Parks & Grounds
• Personal Enrichment
• Public Works Historical Society
• Snow & Ice
• Solid Waste
• Street/Road Maintenance
• Traffic Operations
• Utilities/ROW
• Water & Wastewater

Hot topics like context-sensitive design practices will be discussed during three general sessions.

For more information on the education program click here.

Check out the nearly 100,000-square-foot exhibit floor, where about exhibitors will showcase the latest public works products and services. Many companies will showcase new products during the exhibition.

For more information on the expo click here.