Vic Bianes, Major Account Manager, concluded his year as National President of the American Public Works Association (APWA) during the organization’s Public Works Expo (PWX) 2026 in Houston.
Throughout his presidential year, Vic represented APWA at chapter conferences, leadership events, and national advocacy efforts across North America. He championed the public works profession, advocated for infrastructure investment, supported the development of emerging leaders, and encouraged innovation across the industry.
His advocacy also took him to Washington, D.C., where he met with elected officials to discuss infrastructure investment and public works priorities. Throughout his travels and industry engagement, Vic emphasized the importance of strong leadership, professional collaboration, and greater awareness of the role public works professionals play in supporting communities.
A Year of Leadership and Service
Developing the next generation of public works professionals remained an important focus for Vic throughout his presidency. He continued serving as one of five national instructors for APWA’s Emerging Leaders Academy, a year-long program designed to help rising professionals strengthen their leadership skills.
Vic also contributed to industry conversations around emerging technology. In a January 2026 APWA Reporter article, he discussed how artificial intelligence, data analytics, and real-time systems can support public works operations while keeping professional expertise and judgment at the center of decision-making.
Reflecting on his presidential year, Vic said he is most proud of the opportunity to help strengthen APWA and support the next generation of public works leaders:
“What I am most proud of as APWA President is the privilege to help our organization move forward with purpose, empowering our committees and chapters to thrive, and mentoring emerging leaders so they can grow, lead, and shape the future of public works with confidence and passion.”
Vic’s year of leadership and service culminated at PWX 2026, which marked the end of his presidential term. During the conference, he presided over closing activities and presented APWA’s national awards before becoming APWA’s Immediate Past President.
Vic was joined in Houston by several Kleinfelder colleagues who attended PWX, including Frank Simoneaux, Public Works & Water Resources Department Manager; Doug DeBolt, Director of Business Development; and Tim Gramling, V&K Senior Project Manager. Liz Bissonnette, Senior Principal Professional, was also in Houston and, although she did not attend the conference, had the opportunity to connect with Vic during his time there.
As he wrapped up his presidential year, Vic also recognized Thomas Minter, Southern California Area Manager, for his support throughout the year and thanked him for supporting his APWA leadership and service.
Looking Ahead
As Immediate Past President, Vic will remain involved with APWA and continue supporting the organization and its leadership. His presidential year builds on more than four decades of public service and infrastructure leadership, as well as his longstanding involvement with APWA.
Looking ahead, Vic plans to continue advocating for greater recognition of public works professionals while sharing his experience with the next generation of industry leaders:
“As Past President, my hope is to shine a light on the vital role public works professionals play in the safety, resilience, and quality of life in our communities. Public works professionals are quietly safeguarding our communities before, during and after emergencies and disasters. I am committed to honoring their dedication, elevating awareness of their role, and passing my knowledge to inspire and prepare the next generation of public works leaders.”
Please join us in congratulating Vic on completing his year as APWA National President and thanking him for his leadership, advocacy, and service to the public works profession!