What does it take to go from engineering student to your first professional job—and how can getting involved in APWA help along the way? In Episode 4 of Inside Infrastructure, hosts James Nagelvoort and Ben Valdez welcome two emerging leaders from the APWA San Diego and Imperial CountiesChapter: Catherine Showley, a 2026 graduate of APWA’s National Emerging Leaders Academy, and Ash Paranthaman, the 2026 chair of the chapter’s Young Professionals Committee.

Together, they explore the journey into engineering—from school and early challenges to navigating change and celebrating the milestone of landing that first job. Catherine and Ash also share how getting involved early in theAmerican Public Works Association helps them build skills, make meaningful connections and grow as professionals and leaders. Whether you’re a student, starting your career or supporting the next generation of public works professionals, join us for an engaging conversation about finding your footing—and the value of showing up and getting involved.

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Episode 3 drop of APWA San Diego-Imperial Counties Inside Infrastructure podcast, filmed on location at the Historical Botanical Building in the heart of San Diego’s crown jewel — Balboa Park. Originally built in 1915 for the Panama–California Exposition, this historic structure has undergone a breathtaking transformation — blending old-world charm with innovative sustainability, all under the leadership of the City of San Diego and a team of dedicated project partners. This project wasn’t just a renovation — it was a resurrection of San Diego’s history. It’s now a space that will serve and inspire for generations to come. Today, we’ll talk with the city engineers Jon Richards and Edgar Lozano, who helped bring this living landmark back to life — all while navigating storms, protecting rare trees, and welcoming a new generation of visitors into what’s been called a “Garden of Eden.” This historical project was an APWA San Diego-Imperial County Chapter 2025 Project of the Year Historic Preservation Award Winner and an APWA National Project of the Year Individual Award Winner. So, breathe in, listen close, and join us on this behind-the-scenes journey through restoration, resilience, and the roots of renewal.

In this episode of Inside Infrastructure, Marnell Gibson, P.E., joins our hosts James Nagelvoort, P.E., and Ben Valdez to unpack a question everyone asks but few understand: why do bridges cost so much and why do they take so long to build? Marnell reflects on her path to becoming a professional engineer and the major bridge projects she’s helped lead. She also shares an insider’s perspective on the hidden challenges, unexpected rewards, and lasting appeal of public works and project management. Inside Infrastructure is a podcast where public works professionals come together to explore the often-overlooked systems that shape our everyday lives. From hometown projects and statewide freeways to careers in public works and the politics behind infrastructure, each episode offers a clearer view of the world built around you—through thoughtful conversations with the people who build it.

For the premiere of Inside Infrastructure, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria joins APWA San Diego hosts James Nagelvoort, P.E., and Benjamin Valdez for a conversation about the future of infrastructure in America’s eighth largest city. Mayor Gloria discusses priorities that include transportation, water reliability, mobility improvements, climate resilience, housing, parks and public spaces, and the workforce that keeps the region operating every day. As a lifelong public servant who has served as San Diego City Council President, Interim Mayor, Assemblymember, and now Mayor, he brings a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping San Diego today. This opening episode sets the stage for the stories, projects, and people who will be featured throughout the Inside Infrastructure Podcast series.