Infrastructure Matters by IPWEA

Fleet teams are expected to keep essential services moving through emergencies, ageing assets, workforce shortages and rapid technological change, all while maintaining safety, readiness and public accountability.In this episode, Keith Kerman explains how New York City manages one of the world’s largest municipal fleet operations and why the same principles apply whether an organisation operates hundreds of vehicles or tens of thousands.Keith Kerman, Chief Fleet Officer for the City of New York and Deputy Commissioner for Fleet Management, joins Infrastructure Matters host and IPWEA Fleet Director Marc Sibbald to explore:✅ How New York City manages approximately 40,000 owned and contracted fleet assets✅ Why fleet readiness is critical to police, fire, sanitation and emergency services✅ How telematics supports safety, maintenance and vehicle utilisation✅ How fleet data helped New York City reduce its fleet by 2,000 vehicles✅ How Vision Zero and intelligent speed assistance are improving fleet safety✅ How partnerships with schools are developing the next generation of technicians✅ Why fleet leaders need a stronger voice in organisational decision-makingKeith oversees approximately 29,000 city-owned assets and 10,000 contracted school buses supporting more than 50 New York City agencies. The operation includes around 1,300 mechanics, 250,000 annual work orders, 400 fuel sites and 2,500 electric-vehicle chargers.The conversation explores how New York City uses asset-management systems, performance data and public fleet-readiness reporting to monitor availability, maintenance, utilisation and risk before emergencies occur.Keith also explains why telematics should be a foundation of modern fleet management. Better utilisation data allowed the city to share, transfer and remove underused vehicles, reducing the fleet by 2,000 assets.The episode examines New York City’s Safe Fleet Transition initiatives, including truck side guards, high-visibility vehicles, surround cameras, automatic braking, pedestrian alerts and intelligent speed assistance. Keith explains how dynamic speed controls can prevent vehicles from accelerating beyond the posted limit.Workforce capability is another major focus. With assets ageing and replacement vehicles delayed, mechanics face growing pressure to keep critical services operating. Keith shares how partnerships with public schools are creating paid placements, practical automotive training and direct pathways into city fleet careers.The central message is clear: fleet is not simply a support function. It is a strategic enabler of emergency response, safety, sustainability and community service delivery.About Keith KermanKeith Kerman is the Chief Fleet Officer for the City of New York and Deputy Commissioner for Fleet Management. He oversees approximately 40,000 owned and contracted assets supporting more than 50 agencies and is New York City’s first Chief Fleet Officer.About Infrastructure MattersInfrastructure Matters is IPWEA’s podcast for public works engineers, asset management professionals, fleet leaders and local government decision-makers across Australia and New Zealand.Each episode explores the engineering challenges, technological developments, sustainability breakthroughs and leadership strategies shaping infrastructure across Australasia and around the world.🔔 Follow Infrastructure Matters to stay ahead in public works, fleet management and infrastructure asset management.🔗 Connect with IPWEA🌐 Website: https://www.ipwea.org🎙️ Infrastructure Matters: https://www.ipwea.org/podcast🚛 IPWEA Fleet: https://www.ipwea.org/fleet💼 LinkedIn: https://www.ipwea.org/linkedin👥 Become an IPWEA member: https://www.ipwea.org/membership

Fleet teams are managing rapid technological change, increasingly complex vehicles and growing operational demands, all while competing for limited capital.In this episode, Emad Loka explains how fleet professionals can elevate their role, influence senior decision-makers and position fleet as a strategic value-delivery system.Emad Loka, Director Fleet at Fire and Rescue NSW, joins Infrastructure Matters host and IPWEA Chief Executive David Jenkins to explore:✅ Why fleet management is evolving into a strategic asset management discipline✅ How to communicate fleet risk and value to executives✅ Why reliable data is essential for long-term planning and resilience✅ How collaboration and professional networks improve fleet decisions✅ Where Australia sits internationally in fleet and asset management✅ How electric vehicles, automation and connected technology are changing fleet careers✅ Why future fleet leaders will need technical, commercial and communication skillsEmad oversees approximately 2,000 heavy and light vehicles supporting one of Australia’s most critical emergency services.Drawing on experience across engineering, infrastructure, transport, government and the private sector, he shares a practical perspective on why fleet can no longer be viewed simply as a collection of vehicles.Fleet supports employees, essential operations and community outcomes. To secure investment, fleet leaders must clearly explain the operational risk their assets manage, the value they deliver and the consequences of underinvestment.The conversation also looks at long-term planning during rapid technological change, including electric vehicles, alternative fuels, charging infrastructure, automation, robotics and the changing capability required across fleet workshops and leadership teams.About Emad LokaEmad Loka is Director Fleet at Fire and Rescue NSW, where he oversees approximately 2,000 heavy and light vehicles supporting frontline emergency-service operations.An engineer by profession, Emad has worked across road and transport networks, infrastructure, fleet management and both the public and private sectors. His work focuses on strategic fleet planning, asset management, operational resilience and delivering long-term value for organisations and communities.About Infrastructure MattersInfrastructure Matters is IPWEA’s podcast for public works engineers, asset management professionals and local government leaders across Australia and New Zealand.Each episode explores the engineering challenges, technological developments, sustainability breakthroughs and leadership strategies shaping infrastructure across Australasia.🔔 Follow Infrastructure Matters to stay ahead in public works, fleet management and infrastructure asset management.🔗 Connect with IPWEA🌐 Website: https://www.ipwea.org🎙️ Infrastructure Matters: https://www.ipwea.org/podcast💼 LinkedIn: https://www.ipwea.org/linkedin👥 Become an IPWEA member: https://www.ipwea.org/membership

Public infrastructure must be delivered efficiently—but when procurement controls weaken, public money and public trust can be placed at risk. In this episode, the Hon John Hatzistergos AM, Chief Commissioner of the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption, joins host David Jenkins to explore how corruption develops, where contracting systems become vulnerable and how infrastructure professionals can protect the public interest. John also offers practical advice for professionals entering local government and public-sector infrastructure roles: remain focused on the public interest, understand your responsibilities and act when something does not look or feel right. About the Hon John Hatzistergos AM The Hon John Hatzistergos AM is Chief Commissioner of the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption. His career has included service at the NSW Bar, the Australian Crime Commission and the District Court of NSW, as well as senior NSW Government portfolios including Attorney General, Justice and Regulatory Reform. About Infrastructure Matters Infrastructure Matters is IPWEA’s podcast for public works engineers, asset management professionals and local government leaders across Australia and New Zealand. Each episode explores the challenges, innovations and leadership decisions shaping infrastructure across Australasia. Follow Infrastructure Matters on Spotify to receive notifications when new episodes are released. Disclaimer The views expressed in this podcast are intended solely to highlight emerging issues, risks, and lessons for future learning and discussion. Any references to individuals, organisations, or matters discussed should not be interpreted as casting aspersions, making findings, or passing judgement on any person or entity.

Fleet data is no longer just about GPS tracking — it can help councils improve service delivery, asset management, compliance, and public works operations. In this special fleet edition of Infrastructure Matters, recorded at the 2026 IPWEA Fleet Conference, Marc Sibbald, Director of Fleet at IPWEA, speaks with Dean Calapai, Global Managing Director and Founder of IntelliTrac, about how telematics, GIS mapping, sensors, work order systems, and AI are transforming council fleet management. Together, they explore how local governments can move beyond “dots on a map” and use fleet technology to improve waste collection, road maintenance, parks operations, street sweeping, pothole detection, safety, compliance, and community outcomes. In this episode, we cover: ✅ Why fleet technology is more than GPS vehicle tracking ✅ How telematics and GIS mapping can improve council service delivery ✅ How fleet data connects vehicles, people, work orders, and assets ✅ How AI and sensors can support pothole detection and road maintenance ✅ Why fleet leaders should work across departments to solve broader organisational challenges Guest: Dean Calapai, Global Managing Director and Founder, IntelliTrac Host: Marc Sibbald, Director of Fleet, IPWEA Infrastructure Matters is IPWEA’s podcast for public works engineers, asset management professionals, fleet leaders, and local government decision-makers across Australia and New Zealand.

Parks, public spaces and green infrastructure are essential infrastructure — supporting healthier communities, better asset management and more liveable cities. In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, Anand Pillay, Chief Executive Officer of Parks and Leisure Australia, joins David Jenkins, Chief Executive of IPWEA, to explore why parks and open spaces need a stronger voice in local government planning. Together, they discuss: ✅ Why parks and open spaces should be treated as essential infrastructure ✅ How green infrastructure connects to asset management, health and social outcomes ✅ Why tree canopy, accessibility, safety and activation matter in public spaces ✅ The role of local government in creating healthier, more connected communities ✅ Why informal recreation and social connection are shaping the future of public spaces ✅ Career pathways into parks, leisure, planning and recreation Anand also shares his perspective on rising infrastructure costs, urban growth, social prescription, community wellbeing, and why stronger collaboration is needed between parks professionals, engineers, planners and asset managers. BUILD YOUR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE CAPABILITY 📗 Green Infrastructure Management Manual - https://www.ipwea.org/resourcesnew/bookshop/gimm 🌱 Asset Management for Green Infrastructure - https://www.ipwea.org/ipweacommunities/assetmanagement/am-green-infrastructure MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 🏞️ Parks and Leisure Australia - https://parksleisure.com.au/ 🏃 parkrun Australia - https://www.parkrun.com.au/ 🌿 Recreation Aotearoa - https://www.nzrecreation.org.nz/ BE PART OF THE IPWEA COMMUNITY 🎧 Infrastructure Matters Podcast - https://www.ipwea.org/podcast 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.ipwea.org/linkedin 🤝 Become a member - https://www.ipwea.org/membership This week’s Spotify poll: What matters most in a great public space?

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Peter Christensen and Midhun Joseph from Christchurch City Council to explore an award-winning green infrastructure project that combines flood protection, water quality improvement, ecological restoration and community value. Peter and Midhun unpack how the project was developed to respond to flood risk in southwest Christchurch while also delivering broader outcomes, including cultural recognition, biodiversity, recreation and active transport connections. They discuss the role of Māori knowledge in shaping the project, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and how the design evolved to respond to changing site conditions over time.It is a practical New Zealand case study with timely relevance ahead of the 2026 New Zealand Public Works Forum & Excellence Awards, taking place on 30 April 2026 at Pullman Auckland. The event brings together the sector around practical solutions, real-world case studies and the theme “From Capability to Community: Leading the Future of Public Works.” 🔗https://ipwea.org.nz/public-works-forum Whether you work in public works, stormwater, local government, asset management or infrastructure planning, this episode offers practical insights into delivering infrastructure that works with nature and serves communities for the long term. Te Kuru Project: https://ccc.govt.nz/parks-and-gardens/explore-parks/coast-and-plains/te-kuru

Local governments have a powerful role in shaping sustainable infrastructure. In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, Clare Tubolets, CEO of SmartCrete CRC, explains how the built environment sector can reduce embodied carbon in concrete and why systemic barriers — not technology — are slowing progress. Clare shares insights from SmartCrete’s national research program and discusses how procurement frameworks, regulation and market incentives influence the adoption of low-carbon materials. For engineers, asset managers and infrastructure leaders, this episode explores how systems thinking can help unlock real progress toward net-zero infrastructure.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, David Jenkins speaks with Blake Gordon (Brightly) and Tamara Allen-Canny (Wagtail Red) about how regional councils can build infrastructure capability amid workforce shortages, funding constraints, and rising expectations. The discussion focuses on leadership, culture, digital tools, and practical strategies councils can apply today to close capability gaps and deliver better outcomes for their communities.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Megan Finnie, Senior Asset Manager at Fulton Hogan and Director, IPWEA NSW & ACT. Megan brings a unique lens on the future of public works, blending academic expertise with frontline experience. We explore workforce challenges, climate pressures, and the role of storytelling, mentoring, and systems thinking in modern infrastructure planning. Megan shares honest reflections on attracting the next generation, creating safer and more inclusive workplaces, and the value of green infrastructure in community design.Whether you're a young professional or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers thoughtful strategies on capability-building, leadership pathways, and making infrastructure work for communities today and tomorrow.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Alison Scotland, CEO of the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC), for a compelling conversation on driving climate action through infrastructure decarbonisation.Alison unpacks the Infrastructure Net Zero initiative, a cross-sector collaboration aimed at delivering a nationally consistent approach to carbon measurement and reduction. We dive into the role of embodied carbon, the challenges of procurement reform, and how emerging policies are creating opportunities for greener, smarter decision-making.Learn how ASBEC is helping align government, industry and peak bodies to achieve systemic sustainability outcomes, highlighting the growing importance of green infrastructure, shared language, and collaborative leadership.Whether you work in local government, asset management, planning or policy, this episode offers practical tools, forward-thinking strategies, and an honest look at what it takes to build a net zero future.🔗 Resources from this episode:Infrastructure NSW Toolkit: https://bit.ly/InfraNSWToolkitNABERS Embodied Carbon: https://bit.ly/NABERSCarbonASBEC Policy Framework: https://bit.ly/ASBECEmbodiedPolicyASBEC Net Zero Definition: https://bit.ly/ASBECNetZeroDefASBEC Workforce Report: https://bit.ly/ASBECWorkforceASBEC Publications: https://bit.ly/ASBECPublicationsNational Urban Policy: https://bit.ly/NationalUrbanPolicyIPWEA GIMM Manual: https://bit.ly/GIMMIPWEA

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, host David Jenkins sits down with Lunda Asmani, President of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), and Ashay Prabhu, International Advisor to GFOA and Co-Founder of Modelve, for a deep dive into the intersection of finance, infrastructure, and asset management. Together, they explore how the United States is addressing its growing infrastructure deficit, the evolving role of finance professionals, and the critical importance of long-term capital planning. From municipal bonds to resource shortages, this episode bridges global lessons from Australia, Canada, and the U.S., uncovering how collaboration between engineers and finance leaders is transforming communities. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on funding mechanisms, ESG standards, AI in public finance, and the next generation of infrastructure professionals.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, host David Jenkins sits down with Rod Balding, Chief Executive Officer of Standards Australia, to explore how national standards underpin the safety, innovation, and sustainability of Australia’s infrastructure and everyday life.Rod discusses how Standards Australia collaborates with over 7,000 volunteers to develop frameworks that impact everything from energy transition and water quality to infant safety. He shares insights on the challenges of attracting new generations of contributors, the vital role of storytelling in communicating standards, and how AI is being used to transform the standards development process.The conversation also touches on the recent renewal of Australia-New Zealand cooperation on joint standards, the future of accessibility and affordability in standards publishing, and the organisation’s push to make standards more user-friendly through digital innovation.Whether you’re an engineer, policymaker, or infrastructure leader, this episode offers a fascinating look into how standards drive safety, productivity, and innovation across every sector.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Geoff Cooper, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, to explore how long-term planning, affordability, and asset management are shaping the country’s infrastructure future.Geoff breaks down New Zealand’s new National Infrastructure Plan, highlighting the importance of balancing new projects with maintaining existing assets. He discusses the funding challenges facing local and central governments, the risks of sprawling urban growth, and the need for smarter revenue models that truly support sustainable cities.We also dive into the role of systems thinking in tackling climate change, housing affordability, and demographic pressures—and why breaking down silos across sectors is critical for better outcomes. Geoff shares how the Infrastructure Commission is evolving, building capability across thousands of small projects while ensuring whole-of-life costs are embedded into decision-making.Whether you’re in government, utilities, planning, or asset management, this episode offers practical insights and forward-looking strategies to create infrastructure systems that serve future generations.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by the Hon. Dean Macpherson, South Africa’s Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure. Minister Macpherson shares his ambitious vision for transforming South Africa into a “major construction site” where infrastructure drives economic growth, job creation, and national renewal.We discuss the government’s priorities, from fighting corruption and strengthening governance, to accelerating project delivery, reforming the Expanded Public Works Program, and embracing digital procurement. Minister Macpherson highlights the importance of maintenance alongside new builds, the role of partnerships with local government, and why people and skills development must remain at the center of infrastructure policy.He also opens up about tackling construction-related crime, balancing sustainability with affordability, and building a department that can deliver progress visibly and tangibly.Whether you’re in government, infrastructure, or the asset management profession, this conversation offers valuable insights into how bold reform, transparency, and collaboration can reshape a nation’s future.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we sit down with Hon. Chris Bishop, New Zealand's Minister for Infrastructure, Housing, and RMA Reform, to explore the country’s long-term infrastructure vision. Speaking at the International Public Works Conference, Minister Bishop outlines his priorities for the next 10–20 years, including asset management reform, housing growth, and the development of a national infrastructure plan. From tackling consenting bottlenecks to introducing distance-based road user pricing, Bishop discusses the bold reforms needed to lift productivity, deliver affordable housing, and build resilience against future challenges. He also reflects on the importance of bipartisan consensus, learning from global best practice, and strengthening leadership capacity in asset management. Whether you’re in local government, policy, or infrastructure delivery, this conversation provides valuable insights into how New Zealand is working to transform its infrastructure system for the future.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Peter Achterstraat, New South Wales Productivity and Equality Commissioner, for a deep dive into the state’s productivity performance, housing pressures, infrastructure challenges, and workforce capacity. Peter shares valuable insights on how productivity trends have shifted over the past century, the role of technology and regulation, and what New South Wales must do to remain competitive in a global talent market. He unpacks challenges in the construction and infrastructure sectors, highlights the need for long-term thinking, and explores how micro-credentials, better training pathways, and smarter regulation can help solve Australia’s skills shortage. Whether you're a policymaker, planner, engineer, or local government professional, this episode is full of thought-provoking ideas and real-world solutions for building a more productive and equitable future.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Rachel Chambers, former Mayor and passionate advocate for community-focused governance. Rachel brings a unique perspective to the world of infrastructure — not as an engineer or asset manager, but as an elected member who learned to navigate and champion asset management from the top.Rachel opens up about her journey from private business owner to local government leader, how she embraced the complexities of asset management, and why long-term planning matters more than political cycles. She shares candid reflections on curbing the urge for flashy new projects, prioritizing maintenance, building trust with staff and community, and fostering a culture of collaboration between elected officials and technical teams.Whether you're a director of infrastructure, a policy advisor, or aspiring local government leader, Rachel’s insights will help you bridge the communication gap and create shared language for better decision-making.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Susan Freeman-Greene, Chief Executive of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), for a rich discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing local councils across Aotearoa New Zealand. Drawing from her background as a lawyer, mediator, and former CEO of Engineering New Zealand, Susan brings a unique perspective on the intersection of infrastructure, politics, and public service. We explore the financial pressures on local governments, the infrastructure funding deficit, climate resilience, and how collaboration and long-term planning are essential for sustainable communities. Listen in as Susan shares insights on rethinking service delivery, reframing conversations around asset maintenance, and building capacity in smaller and rural councils. She also outlines how LGNZ is addressing voter engagement and advocating for electoral reform to better support the sector.Whether you're in engineering, finance, or public policy, this episode offers timely strategies and thought-provoking leadership lessons from across the Tasman.

In this special episode of Infrastructure Matters, recorded live at the IPWEA Fleet Conference, we’re joined by Will Batty, Associate Vice President, Business Development - APAC at Geotab, to explore the future of fleet management through data, AI, and innovation. Will shares insights into how connected vehicle data is reshaping asset management, improving safety, and driving sustainability. From predictive maintenance powered by AI to planning infrastructure with anonymised fleet data, this episode reveals how fleets are evolving into intelligent, strategic assets. We discuss Geotab’s open ecosystem, the power of their Marketplace, and what’s next for fleet managers adapting to rapid technological change. Whether you're managing vehicles, planning infrastructure, or aiming to future-proof your operations, this episode will give you a front-row seat to the innovations transforming the fleet industry.

In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we speak with Chris L’Ecluse, Queensland State Manager for Teletrac Navman, about the evolving world of telematics and its transformative role in fleet safety, compliance, and culture.With a background in highway patrol and crash investigation, Chris shares how his passion for road safety led him from the police force into the telematics industry. He dives into the power of data and AI-driven video technology, the challenges of change management, and the need to engage drivers and unions to build trust and adoption.We explore how telematics is more than just tracking—it’s about coaching, protecting lives, and meeting legislative demands. Whether you manage local government fleets or oversee transportation safety, this conversation delivers practical takeaways and a clear vision of where fleet management is heading.