Employees recognized for achievements in public works field

Published on May 13, 2026

Group photo shows seven individuals from the Public Works and Utility Systems Department holding awards they won recently. They are standing in the City Hall Council Chambers, with the City's logo behind them.

Several City of Port St. Lucie employees were honored recently for their achievements and professionalism in the public works field.

Seven employees received recognition at the American Public Works Association’s Florida Public Works Expo in Tampa.

  • Beth Zsoka, Public Works Department, Frank “Cheech” DeCelles Award/Florida Chapter Member of the Year Award: Beth was recognized for her character, integrity, achievements and professionalism as a member of the Treasure Coast branch of the APWA. The award cited Beth’s work sets a standard of excellence within the organization.
  • Carlos Camacho, Utility Systems Department, Technical Innovation Award: Carlos developed an innovative and efficient way to inspect more than 13,000 utility service lines as part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s requirements for water systems to reduce lead exposure in drinking water. Carlos’ innovative approach allowed the team to conduct a screening process that quickly determined no houses in the service area met lead or copper inclusion.
  • Robert Carlsen, Public Works Department, Mac Ulsch Award: Robert was recognized for his lengthy and outstanding service to the APWA Florida Chapter. With more than 30 years in public works, he is an advocate for the APWA whose work connects individuals and organizations in the community and across the state.
  • Summer Burdick, Utility Systems Department, Exemplary Practices Award: Summer was recognized for her leadership, innovation and commitment to operational excellence. That included delivering several high-impact initiatives that improved efficiency, transparency and accountability across the organization.
  • Thomas Salvador, Public Works Department, Florida Chapter Professional Manager of the Year Award: Thomas was recognized for his leadership and service in Port St. Lucie. With more than 20 years of experience, he has led vital efforts in infrastructure projects, data-driven planning and roadway preservation.
  • Andrew Gomez, Public Works Department, Five-Year Member Award
  • John Dunton, Public Works Department, Long-Time APWA Member Award

Colt Schwerdt, Director of Public Works and City Engineer, also was recently recognized with the Engineer of the Year Award by the Florida Engineering Society Treasure Coast Chapter.

The award honors a professional engineer who has demonstrated consistent excellence, leadership and significant contributions to the engineering profession and the Treasure Coast region. The Engineer of the Year Award is a peer-nominated, chapter-selected honor that reflects technical expertise and professional character. It recognizes engineers who shape sustainable infrastructure solutions and lead by example in our community.  

 

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