By Ventura Breeze Staff –
On Tuesday, May 20, Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) will spend a fun-filled day connecting with K-12 students and the public at its popular annual Public Works Day event hosted at the Ventura County Government Center. More than 1,200 Ventura County students are expected to attend. Students will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with VCPWA staff, explore public works equipment, and explore a range of exhibits and booths that will educate and entertain. These interactive experiences will highlight the essential role Public Works plays in our daily lives.
In the early hours of the morning on May 20, VPCWA crews will begin setting up equipment and truck displays as well as the various booths that each department has spent months putting together to provide interactive demonstrations focused on science, technological innovations, illustrations of current engineering projects, career opportunities and more.
Public Works Day is celebrated during American Public Works Association’s National Public Works Week, May 18-24, 2025, and this year’s theme, “People, Purpose, Presence,” highlights three cornerstone ideals that motivate public works professionals to serve in their communities every day. Public Works Day provides a fantastic chance to gain insight into the essential services provided by Public Works.
“There will be opportunities to learn about roads and bridges, water supply and treatment, the environment, recycling, and environmental programs …just to name a few,” said Gregg Strakaluse, VCPWA’s director. “More importantly, people will have the opportunity to speak with the Public Works team, who work hard every day to deliver projects and services that keep our community strong.”
In addition to the exhibits and inspiring career booths, VCPWA will also be announcing and honoring its employees of the year at the Board of Supervisors meeting, during a special agenda item, in which a presentation sharing projects from VCPWA’s departments over the last year will be featured.
Teachers who would like to sign up to bring a group of students are invited to register for an arrival time slot at www.vcpublicworks.org/public-works-week. Members of the public, of all ages, as well as homeschooling parents, are invited to attend from 11 am to 2 pm — no registration or check-in is required. The event will take place on the lawn and the roundabout in between the Hall of Administration and Hall of Justice at the Ventura County Government Center.
VCPWA provides water and sanitation services, vertical construction, survey, grading, roads, transportation systems, storm waters conservation, and first response support for major events.
