Recorded live at the APWA Wisconsin Spring Conference, this episode of B&W Insights explores how public works professionals are navigating increasingly unpredictable weather—from heavy rain events to major snowstorms—and what it takes to keep communities running every day.

Through conversations with leaders across utilities, municipalities, and public works departments, we dive into how teams are planning for extreme conditions, adapting infrastructure, and communicating with residents in real time. From snowplows to stormwater systems, it’s clear that today’s public works professionals must be ready for anything.

In recognition of National Public Works Week and this year’s theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” this episode highlights the people behind the scenes who are committed to protecting public safety, maintaining essential services, and strengthening the communities they serve—no matter what the forecast brings.

Guests:

·       Eric Dundee, PE, ENV-SP
Executive Director
Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District

·       Scott Brandmeier
Director of Public Works / Village Engineer
Village of Fox Point

·       Genevieve Stollenwerk, PE
City Engineer
City of South Milwaukee

·       Tony Fietzer, CPWP-M
Street Superintendent
City of De Pere

·       Alex Attiah
Village President
Village of Paddock Lake

·       Shelly Billingsley
Director of Public Works & Development Services
Kenosha County

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

What brings someone into the water industry—and what makes them stay?

In this special live from ISAWWA’s WATERCON episode of B&W Insights, host Mark Siefert sits down with water professionals from across the industry to explore their water stories. From operators and utility superintendents to regulators, association leaders, vendors, and young professionals, each guest shares the moments, mentors, and experiences that shaped their path into water.

These candid conversations reveal a common thread: while no two water journeys look the same, they are all driven by public service, community impact, and a shared responsibility to protect one of our most vital resources. Recorded on the WATERON show floor, this episode captures the energy, connection, and sense of purpose that make the water sector more than a career—it’s a calling.

Mary Reed —Illinois Rural Water

Eddie Ramos — Water Treatment Plant Superintendent, City of West Chicago

Kali Spain — Education and Government Affairs Specialist, ISAWWA

Jamie Rott — Water Superintendent, City of Rockford

Jacob Roundy — Mid-Central Regional Manager, DN Tanks

Kevin Smith — Vice President (AWWA), Project Manager at Ramboll 

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

Host Mark Siefert sits down with transportation engineer Ryan Wallace to explore where communities stand on ADA and PROWAG compliance. From sidewalk and curb ramp design to transition planning, enforcement risks, and emerging technology, they unpack why accessibility in the public right-of-way remains both a challenge—and an urgency.

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

Host Mark Siefert and returning guest Kaitlin Wright explore where communities stand in the nationwide push to replace lead service lines. From new regulations to funding challenges and lessons learned in the field, they highlight why there’s still time—and still urgency—to get the lead out. 

Don't forget to check every 1st Tuesday of the month for a new episode!

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

Kicking off Season 2 of B&W Insights, host Mark Siefert sits down with Village of Western Springs Deputy Village Manager Casey Biernacki and the Baxter & Woodman project team to explore how severe storms and resident concerns led to a voter‑approved, long‑term infrastructure plan. Learn how data, community engagement, and clear communication shaped a roadmap for the next 30–40 years. 

New episodes drop every 1st Tuesday of every month!

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

In this season finale episode of B&W Insights, host Mark Siefert sits down with Michael Fontanez to talk about the podcast’s journey—why it started, what’s been covered so far, and what’s coming next. They revisit highlights from previous episodes, listen to some memorable clips, and share what listeners can expect in Season 2. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the conversations that keep our industry connected and informed!

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

In this episode of B&W Insights, we sit down with Alex Han, the inspiring high school student and host of the H2O and Beyond podcast. Alex shares how a ninth-grade chemistry class sparked his passion for water and sustainability, leading him to create a platform that bridges science, technology, and public awareness. From tackling microplastics and PFAS to exploring global water challenges and green infrastructure, Alex offers a fresh perspective on why water is the most critical resource of our time. 

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

🎙️ Live from the Wisconsin Section AWWA’s 104th Annual Conference!

This special episode features five dynamic voices from Wisconsin’s water industry, recorded live at the 104th annual conference. We dive into the challenges, innovations, and opportunities shaping the future of water—from utility operations and policy to technology and workforce development. Whether you're a utility leader, engineer, student, or advocate, you’ll walk away with fresh insights, practical takeaways, and a dose of inspiration to fuel your passion for water.

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

In this episode of B&W Insights, Melissa Olenick and Carolyn Grieves share highlights from their trip to Germany, where they toured cutting-edge water and wastewater facilities as part of a transatlantic delegation. Supported by ISAWWA and the German American Chamber of Commerce, the experience showcased Germany’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability, technology, and collaboration—offering valuable lessons for U.S. utilities. 

Check out our previous episodes or look for a new episode every 1st Tuesday of the month!

#wastewatersolutions #germany #ISAWWA #wastewater #wastewatertreatment #sustainability #utilities #technology

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

In this episode, we sit down with Jason, a transportation expert from Baxter & Woodman, to uncover the truth about roundabouts. Jason debunks common myths and explains why roundabouts are a proven safer alternative to traditional intersections, reducing fatalities and injuries by up to 90%. Tune in to learn how these traffic circles contribute to the "Vision Zero" movement and a future of safer roadways. 

Don't forget to check out our previous episodes and marks your calendars for a new episode that drops every first Tuesday of the month!

For more information visit baxterwoodman.com
Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026