On January 31, 2019, City Engineer Patrick S. Collins, P.E., received an Advanced Certificate of Public Works Management at the University of Georgia in Athens. Tonja Shackelford, Public Works Coordinator, who previously earned the 60-hour Certificate of Public Works Management, was also recognized for completing the 90-hour advanced program. 

The advanced certificate is a 90-hour program of classes developed in cooperation with the national American Public Works Association, Georgia Chapter of the American Public Works Association Michael T. Joyner Education Program, and the University of Georgia Carl Vinson Institute of Government.  The modules are taught by both Institute of Government instructional faculty and public works professionals. The courses encourage professionalism, increase knowledge of effective management practices, and develop skills to help managers provide outstanding local government services.  The program is an educational commitment that takes a minimum of 3 years to complete.