Vic Bianes, Kleinfelder Major Account Manager and National President of the American Public Works Association, recently attended the Texas Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) Public Workshop and Equipment Roadeo, held February 1 to 4, 2026, in Dallas/Fort Worth.
The annual event brings together public works professionals from across Texas for technical education, leadership development, and skills competitions. As part of the conference, Vic connected with public works leaders including Richard Mendoza, Director of Transportation and Public Works for the City of Austin, and members of the City of Houston delegation. Discussions focused on workforce challenges, sustainability, strengthening relationships with elected officials, and increasing recognition for public works professionals in both the public and private sectors.
A highlight of the event was the Equipment Roadeo, where operators demonstrated precision and safety in competitions such as backhoe and mini-excavator challenges, storm pipe cutting, and other field-based events. The City of Baytown earned top honors in the large equipment competition, securing the statewide agency award as Texas’s top equipment rodeo team.
The conference concluded with Vic filming a promotional segment alongside the Houston Public Works Director in preparation for the upcoming PWX Conference in Houston in August 2026.
Shortly after the Texas event, Vic traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with elected officials and advocate for infrastructure investment and public works priorities. In his role as National APWA President, Vic continues to represent the public works profession at the national level while strengthening relationships that support Kleinfelder’s clients and communities.
