In today's hyper-active media and political environment every public infrastructure project has the potential to become a local "hot-button" issue -- and mastering community relations and public outreach tactics is now as important as engineering and construction aptitude.
To help industry professionals refresh these skills, and learn what works from the industry's best, the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) is offering a November 12 webinar from 12:30-1:30 p.m., EST.
"Building Effective Public Affairs & Community Relations Programs" is designed for project managers, communicators, corporate executives, safety professionals, human resources and risk management professionals and will be taught by two veteran transportation construction industry communicators, and include a brief refresher "media relations 101."
Featured at the event will be Joyce Watson, vice president of public relations for Oldcastle, Inc., and Lisa Wagman Glezer, client and public relations manager for G.A. & F.C. Wagman, Inc. ARTBA Director of Public Affairs Jeff Solsby will serve as moderator and lead the "media relations" section of the program.
G.A. & F.C. Wagman, a Pennsylvania highway/bridge contractor, has established an award-winning community, political and government engagement program to educate local legislators and the public about the positive impacts of transportation investment on the economy and quality of life in communities in which they operate. Wagman Glezer will explain how they do it, outline what benefits are provided for the company, and give you a "playbook" to use in your local operations.
Oldcastle Materials, the leading vertically-integrated supplier of aggregates, asphalt, ready-mixed concrete and paving supplies in the U.S., takes a pro-active approach to community relations. Their tactics include hosting open house sessions aimed at educating students and community leaders about how construction materials are used and their benefit to our economy and mobility. The firm also works in partnership with organizations like Wildlife Habitat Council and Habitat for Humanity as a means to build rapport with local leaders and demonstrate community involvement. Watson will offer tips to develop similar programs.
The cost is $125 for ARTBA members and $175 for non-members. Register in the "webinars" section of the "news and events" page or by contacting Jim Colleton.
Copyright Targeted News Services
TNS MV45 091104-2460506 61MarlynVitin
