The Top Ten Public Works Leaders of the Year program seeks to inspire excellence and dedication in public service by recognizing the outstanding career service achievements of individual public works professionals and officials, from both the public and private sectors. The primary focus of the award is on career service to the public works profession rather than on any one single event or project. It is the intent of this award to recognize the career service accomplishments of public works professionals and officials.
In order to be eligible to be nominated for the award, candidates can be from the public or private sector. They shall have a minimum of 10 years qualifying experience in one of five predetermined categories. Individuals are only eligible to receive the Top Ten Public Works Leaders of the Year Award on one occasion.
Any governmental entity, group, or individual may nominate candidates and nominations are particularly encouraged from APWA chapters and branches. The Top Ten are selected by a panel of judges appointed by the APWA President.
2022 – Jenifer Willer, P.E.*, City of Eugene
2023 – Ken Stoneman, PE, PLS, David Evans & Associates
2020 – Rick Olson, RKO & Associates
2021 – Delora Kerber, P.E.*, City of Wilsonville, OSU College of Engineering newsletter article
2019 – Russ Thomas, City of Newberg
2018 – Gregg Weston, 3J Consulting
2017 – Jeanne Nyquist*, Nyquist & Associates
2016 – Bob Patterson*, City of Pendleton
2015 – Eric Jones, City of Eugene
2014 – Stephanie Reid*, City of Lincoln
2013 – Gregg Weston, David Evans & Associates
2012 – Peggy Keppler*
2010 – Liane Welch, Tillamook County
2006 – Kurt Corey*, City of Eugene
2004 – Daniel J. Boss*, City of Tualatin