APWA’S PWX 2023 CONFERENCE

Paz Gomez, PE, CEM, GBE, CPM, APWA San Diego & Imperial Counties Chapter President

SAN DIEGO, California is indeed America’s Finest City! For those who were able to join us in beautiful San Diego for PWX 2023, you undoubtedly enjoyed the warm hospitality and temperate weather of our coastal binational region.

The opening ceremonies started in cadence when the naval base San Diego color guard set the tone for our close ties with the military in San Diego. Continuing the military flair, the ‘Navy Mayor’ Rear Admiral Brad Rosen, Commander, Navy Region Southwest, welcomed all attendees. As a Navy veteran, I was deeply touched by the nod to our military connection to public works. The get acquainted party aboard the USS Midway Museum continued the military-style celebration, which was enjoyed by all.

Opening the exhibit hall was led by a mariachi band that consisted of trumpeters, guitarists, and violinists playing a genre of regional Mexican music that dates back to at least the 18th century. We were proud to celebrate our binational region and our close ties with our neighbors in Mexico.

We enjoyed the educational sessions, roadeo, technical tours including the Pure Water San Diego North City Water Reclamation Plant and Snapdragon Stadium, recreational activities including golf at the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course pickleball, and so much more! PWX 2023 was fun, educational, and memorable!

Thank you to all attendees, over 400 exhibitors, sponsors, APWA National, and PWX host committee for making PWX 2023 the best one ever. We look forward to seeing everyone again at PWX 2024 in Atlanta!