Operations and Maintenance Training

Operations and Maintenance Task Force

APWA developed the new Operations and Maintenance Task Force to focus on training resources for these critical public works employees.

APWA and our unique partnerships offer a variety of options to meet these training needs. The Task Force has developed a spreadsheet of suggestions for training resources. Some of these are national resources and some are state-specific organizations that offer many training opportunities.

The following categories are included on the spreadsheet:

• College/University
• Government
• Private Vendor
• Professional Organization
• Technical School/Community College

As you develop the training plans in your states, don’t miss an opportunity to check into these types of organizations to see if their offerings can support your maintenance and operations training needs.

View Spreadsheet

National Local Technical Assistance Program Association (NLTAPA)

APWA and the National Local Technical Assistance Program Association (NLTAPA) have a formal partnership for the purpose of fostering a safe, efficient, environmentally sound transportation system. Together our goal is to improve the skills and knowledge of local transportation providers through training, technical assistance, and technology transfer.

NLTAPA is a not-for-profit organization representing and serving the 52 LTAP and TTAP Member-Centers in the United States and Puerto Rico. The LTAP/TTAP Centers comprise an established network of transportation centers throughout the country with a mission of identifying and disseminating the latest in technology and training to local and tribal transportation policy makers and transportation professionals in the field. Primary areas of LTAP/TTAP service delivery are roadway safety, infrastructure management and maintenance, worker safety, workforce development and organizational excellence.

Each LTAP/T2 center has developed maintenance and operations training to best support the needs of their states. To find your local LTAP and see their training offerings, visit their website.

If you have a training need, please make sure to touch base with your LTAP Center and discuss. NLTAPA has also developed a repository of over 100 Tailgate Talks, a great resource to utilize in your chapter education efforts and in your newsletters to the public works communities in your state.

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CDL Requirements for Entry-Level Driver Training

A Federal standard for mandatory training of entry-level drivers of commercial motor vehicles began on February 7, 2022. CDL applicants will be required to complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) from a provider listed on the Training Provider Registry of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). FMCSA has developed a set of frequently asked questions to help you understand and navigate these new requirements.

To help agencies comply with the new requirements, Clear Roads has developed entry-level CDL training materials for instructor-led classroom and behind-the-wheel training. Available as a free download for any state or local public agency, the training materials include a fact sheet and timeline to help agencies achieve compliance. Please note, these materials are based off national standards and are useful as a starting point for developing your own program. They should be compared to your local policies and regulations for CDL licensing.

Vista Equipment Training

APWA has teamed up with VISTA Training, Inc. to offer valuable instructor kits, e-learning courses, and online videos for equipment operators with special discounts for APWA members.

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APWA Training Opportunities

Operations and Maintenance Resources

APWA’s Resource Center makes accessing APWA education sessions, webinars, toolboxes, and videos easy and enjoyable! In just a few clicks of a button, you can filter information by subject, topic, or media-type, based on your preferences.

Visit the Resource Center

Winter Maintenance Operator Certificate

A four-hour course designed for those behind the wheel during winter events.

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Public Works Math 101: Calculating Concrete and Asphalt

When it comes to calculating the amount of concrete to pour or asphalt to spread, you can’t afford an “oops!” moment because you over- or under-estimated how much you needed. If—like most of us—you slept through high school geometry, and “volume” refers to how loud the TV is, and “area” describes the rug on your dining room floor, APWA can help you brush up on your math skills. With "Public Works Math 101," you’ll be calculating area and volume in no time. Even better, this in-depth instruction provides hands-on training regardless of which format you choose.

Public Works Math 101 is offered as an eCourse and DIY-Public WorksShop Kit. Choose an option below to learn more.