2016 IPWEA Study Tour of USA, Spain & Holland. “Best Practice and Innovation in Public Works” by Gleb Kolenbet

Abstract

Each year the IPWEA Foundation offers its members an opportunity to participate in a sponsored study tour. It is a chance to visit local government authorities in different countries, meet fellow engineering professionals, see engineering projects and do some sightseeing. In order to be considered for the scholarship, members are required to submit an application addressing several criteria, outline their areas of interest and explain why they should be considered. After a formal selection process is completed, a small group of members are selected and the tour is organised, the itinerary of which is tailored to suit the interests of the group. The 2016 tour was themed “Best Practice and Innovation in Public Works” and included visits to local authorities in Santa Monica, California, the City of Yonkers near New York, City of Madrid and Valladolid in Spain, and various places in Netherlands. As part of the tour, participants attended the annual American Public Works Exhibition (PWX) in Minneapolis - a four day professional development conference and trade show - which attracts attendees from not only North America but also from other countries including Australia, Mexico and Europe.