More than 6,000 public works professionals from around the world are expected to gather in Houston from August 30 through September 2 as the American Public Works Association brings its Public Works Expo, known as PWX, to the George R. Brown Convention Center.

The four-day event will bring together professionals from the public and private sectors for education, training, networking and discussions focused on some of the most critical challenges facing public works and infrastructure today.

This year’s program will address disaster preparedness and recovery, flooding and stormwater management, workforce development, transportation, emerging technologies, water and wastewater systems, sustainability and asset management. As communities continue investing in resilient infrastructure, PWX will provide a forum for public works leaders to exchange ideas, share lessons learned and identify practical solutions aimed at improving quality of life for residents.

Houston’s experience with major storms, flooding and infrastructure challenges makes the city a fitting location for the national and international gathering. The event will provide opportunities for professionals to learn from communities facing similar challenges while exploring strategies for strengthening infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

One of the largest components of this year’s PWX will be its exhibit hall. Attendees will be able to meet one-on-one with representatives from more than 480 exhibiting companies across approximately 300,000 square feet of exhibit space on August 30, August 31 and September 1. Organizers say the exhibit floor will be the largest in the event’s history.

The conference will also include more than 150 education sessions, seminars and workshops. Programming will feature classroom instruction, interactive workshops and live learning labs covering a range of current public works issues, including workforce development and recruitment, the role of public works professionals as first responders, budget management and other challenges facing communities.

PWX will also incorporate opportunities for attendees to support Houston-area organizations. Through APWA’s Proud to Care Initiative, participants will have the opportunity to donate blood to Gulf Coast Blood during the 19th Annual Blood Drive, scheduled for August 30, August 31 and September 1. Attendees may also contribute to the Houston Food Bank and Rebuilding Together Houston as part of the APWA Texas Chapter’s fundraising efforts.

General sessions scheduled for August 30, September 1 and September 2 will feature storytellers Dr. Amber Selking, J.R. Martinez and Doc Hendley. Their presentations will focus on topics including building resilience for excellence, becoming powered by purpose and turning purpose into impact.

The City of Houston’s Public Works Department is APWA’s largest accredited agency, reflecting the city’s significant commitment to professional standards and excellence in public works. From preparing for major storms and restoring critical services following emergencies to maintaining the infrastructure residents depend on every day, public works professionals play an essential role in keeping communities safe, functioning and connected.

PWX will provide an opportunity for those professionals to come together in Houston to examine current challenges, learn from one another’s experiences and explore practical solutions that can address immediate needs while helping communities prepare for the future.