Public Works Executive Fellowship

The Public Works Executive Fellowship will not be offered in 2026-2027, as it is typically offered every other year. To be notified when registration opens for the 2028-2029 Public Works Executive Fellowship, email us. 

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The APWA-MN Public Works Executive Fellowship is the only executive training offered at the local level for public works professionals. This certificate program strengthens leadership skills essential for successful current and emerging executive-level leaders.

August 21: The program is full and no longer accepting registrations. To be added to the wait list, email us. 

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Download the 2025-2026 Executive Fellowship Brochure

Program Elements

• Assess your personal leadership inventory and develop a sustainable leadership plan.
• Develop strategies for navigating and successfully leading within politically-charged environments.
• Learn effective methods for citizen engagement.
• Understand the use of visioning and strategic planning for your department and community.

Target Audience: Candidates should have experience in leading public works organizations (or their equivalent) at the department or divisional level.

Location: All classes will be held at the Plymouth Community Center, 14800 - 34th Ave. North, Plymouth, MN 55447. 

Cost: $3,200/student. Pay the full fee upon registration or pay in two installments, one upon registration and one in January 2026. Fee includes classroom instruction, course materials, dinner, and breaks.

Class Size: Class is limited to a maximum of 12 participants.

Schedule: The course meets monthly from 1:00pm - 7:00 pm on the following dates: 

• Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025
• Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025
• Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025
• Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026
• Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026
• Thursday, March 19, 2026
• Thursday, April 16, 2026
• Thursday, May 7, 2026 - Graduate Recognition at the APWA-MN Spring Conference

Lead Instructor: Wally Wysopal is a professional local government manager with over 30 years of experience. Currently the City Manager for the City of Fridley, Wally is the former Chair of the Board of Government Training Services and is Chair of the Minnesota Municipal Power Agency and Chair of the Metropolitan Area Manager's Association Labor Relations Committee. He earned a Certificate of Advanced Public Administration from Hamline University, a Master of Arts in Public Administration degree from Northern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota. He teaches Public Sector HR Management, Labor Relations and Local Government Management courses in the Hamline degree programs, and three certificate courses: including the Public Works Leadership Academy and Human Resources Essentials for Public Works Professionals.