APWA Michigan Chapter President’s Message |
| Dear APWA Michigan Chapter Members,
I am honored to serve as President of the APWA Michigan Chapter at such a meaningful time in our history. This year marks the 90th anniversary of APWA Michigan, representing nine decades of service, leadership, innovation, and commitment to strengthening communities across our state. Our organization is made up of extraordinary members whose work is essential to the health, safety, and quality of life of the people they serve. Although much of that work happens behind the scenes and often without recognition, its impact is felt every day. Thank you for your dedication and service. As we begin the year ahead, I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated and talented public works professionals. Our strength comes from the commitment, energy, and perspective each member brings to this organization. Together that shared knowledge and service continue to make APWA Michigan successful. Our Chapter is supported by many engaged branch leaders, a committed Executive Committee, and dedicated volunteers who build programs that provide training, networking, and professional growth. I am grateful for the leadership that brought us here and proud to be part of an organization with such a strong foundation and clear purpose. This year, I look forward to visiting our branches, attending meetings and events, and spending time with the people who make this organization great. I hope to listen, learn, and better understand the needs, ideas, and goals of members across Michigan as we build on the best of APWA. APWA Michigan has many exciting opportunities ahead. Our priorities include strategic planning, stronger website and communication tools, and support for the Midwest Branch in its effort to construct a Public Works Monument in Muskegon. These efforts honor our history while helping shape the future of the chapter. Our Young Professionals group has been engaging the next generation of public works leaders through fun, informative, and meaningful events. These gatherings build important relationships across the many sectors that support our communities, and those connections are essential to the success of our profession. The strategic plan will focus on strengthening membership, expanding advocacy, improving communication, and building partnerships with professional organizations across the state. By creating more opportunities for members to engage, we can increase the value of APWA membership and broaden our impact throughout Michigan. I encourage each of you to stay involved, attend branch events, introduce yourself to someone new, and invite colleagues to learn more about APWA Michigan. There are many ways to connect, learn, and grow through APWA, including the Michigan Public Service Institute (MPSI), Michigan Advanced Public Service Institute (MAPSI), Road Scholars program, Snow Plow Operator Training (SPOT), Snow Plow Rodeo, and branch events. I look forward to working with each of you as we carry forward the APWA mission and making a difference in the communities we serve. Thank you for all you do for your communities, this profession, and APWA Michigan. I am excited for the year ahead and grateful for the opportunity to work with our Executive Committee, branch leaders, and members across the state. Your voice, expertise, and participation are essential to our continued success. Sincerely, Mark D. Norton |