When the COVID-19 outbreak nearly shut down the American workforce in March 2020, businesses, institutions, and classrooms closed immediately. California’s typically jammed Bay Area freeways and city streets were so peaceful that chirping bird could be heard in lieu of car horns. Never had residents imagined, let alone witnessed, completely empty Bay Area freeways at rush hour. Everything routine and familiar stopped. One sector, however, had no choice but to continue: essential public infrastructure and maintenance. Infrastructure improvements rely on momentum and maintenance relies on schedule, with both now challenged from staffing to safety, public works directors were forced to pivot their workforce, and quickly. All city services became even more critical with everyone sheltering in place. The COVID-19 pandemic was a once-in-a-career challenge that taught even the most seasoned leaders new rules for success. Hear from public works directors from neighboring California cities, and the San Mateo County Public Works Director, who lead their departments through the battle that was the first few months of the 2020 pandemic. What did they discover about remote working? How did they adapt their processes? What safety protocols had to be implemented? How did they manage staff who couldn’t work remotely? How did they select what and who was essential? How did the re-introduce staff to the office? Most importantly, though we might not see another extraordinary global event like this for another 100 years, what did these public works career professionals learn about their staff and themselves when they faced the Public Works Pandemic Pivot of 2020.