Brownfields Buzz

Your hub for brownfields spotlights, tools, events, news, and more!

July 2025

Top 10 Tips for First-Time NBTC Attendees

1. Plan ahead. Before arriving in Chicago, take time to explore the conference agenda and highlight the sessions you’re most excited about. You can find members of the KSU TAB and Tribal TAB teams at a variety of sessions, covering fundamentals like brownfields cleanup and assessment, and specialized topics such as phytoremediation and creative approaches to 128a compliance. Check out the full KSU TAB sessions list here.
2. Start strong with Brownfields University. This pre-conference training is a great way to get grounded in core brownfields concepts. (Note: Pre-registration is required!)
3. Did you miss the Brownfields 2025 First Timers Webinar? Click here to watch a recording of the webinar and to get practical tips for navigating the week with confidence.
4. Connect at your Regional Open House. Join your regional EPA staff, TAB team, and peers on Tuesday, August 5, from 2:30–4:00 PM to build relationships and find support close to home.
5. Don’t miss the socials. Networking events are a great way to meet people in a relaxed setting—including folks you’ve only connected with virtually. Bring business cards and follow up with contacts after the conference—you never know when they’ll come in handy!
6. Build in downtime. With so much going on, it’s important not to overbook yourself. Schedule moments to regroup, process what you’ve learned, and recharge.
7. Book one-on-one time. Want to talk about a specific project? Your regional EPA and TAB representatives are available—don’t hesitate to stop by the TAB Exhibit booth (Booth #500) to schedule a meeting.
8. Download the Whova app. It’s your go-to tool for navigating the agenda, messaging attendees, and staying up-to-date on all things NBTC. (More on this in the TOOLBOX section!)
9. Dress smart. Comfortable shoes are a must, session rooms can get chilly (bring layers), and having snacks on hand never hurts. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
10. Have fun—and say hi! We’d love to see you at the TAB booth (#500) in the Exhibit Hall and at the Technical Assistance Lounge. Whether you have questions or just want to say hello, we’re here for it.

Where to Find Us at Brownfields 2025:

Click here to view the full list of TAB events taking place next week (in an easy-to-read format).

Toolbox

Download the NBTC Whova App Today!

The official Whova app for the 2025 National Brownfields Training Conference is now available.

This all-in-one mobile platform helps you:

• Navigate the full event agenda and logistics—even without Wi-Fi or data
• Network with other attendees by viewing profiles and sending messages
• Participate in real-time with session likes, comments, ratings, and polls

Upcoming Workshops and Trainings

There’s a lot happening next month, including in-person brownfields workshops for Missouri and Kansas communities, and a two-day virtual training on how to write competitive brownfield grant applications.

Whether you're new to brownfields or gearing up for this year’s grant cycle, these sessions are a great opportunity to build skills, ask questions, and connect with experts. Click on an event invitation to register.

Now Open! EPA Brownfields

Job Training Grants

Source: EPA website; Video title: "EPA's Brownfields Program: Rebuilding Puerto Rico..."

Looking to build a local workforce to support brownfields revitalization? EPA’s Brownfields Job Training (JT) Grants are now open. Applications are due September 26, 2025.

The Job Training Program helps communities deliver free, skills-based training in environmental assessment, cleanup, site prep, and reuse.

These grants empower under-employed and unemployed residents—especially those living in areas impacted by contamination or disinvestment—with pathways to full-time careers in environmental and cleanup-related fields.

Eligible applicants include:

✔ Nonprofits

✔ Local governments

✔ Workforce development organizations

✔ Tribal entities and others

Need a second set of eyes? TAB providers are available to review draft applications. Refer to the Provider list below to contact your regional technical assistance expert!

Explore details, FAQs, and training examples on EPA’s official grant page.

Follow your KSU TAB Team on LinkedIn and Facebook!

Visit our website at www.ksutab.org.