Capital Strategic Solutions (CSS)

Join Us at Connect 351 - formerly the MMA Annual Meeting & Trade Show
2025-01-23 - 2025-01-25 | Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer St., Boston, MA, 02210, United States
The event will be held Jan. 23-25, 2025, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.
This two-and-a-half-day conference offers the largest municipal Trade Show in New England, along with inspiring speakers, educational workshops, member business meetings, important policy discussions and countless networking opportunities. See you there!

Join Us at the FCAM Professional Development Conference in Worcester
2025-02-25 - 2025-02-27 | Worcester DCU Center, 50 Foster Street, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01608
Capital Strategic Solutions will be on the trade floor at the 2025 Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts’ Professional Development Conference. The conference will be held at the DCU Center in Worcester, MA, from Tuesday, Feb. 25 through Thursday, Feb. 27. This year’s theme is “Adapting to and Inspiring Change.” CSS is excited to be a part of this important training and development conference and we look forward to seeing you there.

NEWWA at the DCU Center on 04/02 - 04/03
2025-04-02 08:00 - 2025-04-03 17:00 UTC | Worcester DCU Center, 50 Foster Street, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01608
Find Us April 2-3 at the New England Water Works Association 2025 Spring Joint Regional Conference and Exhibition at the Worcester DCU Center
Capital Strategic Solutions will be in the vendor hall at the Worcester DCU center. Come swing by our booth to hear about how we support water suppliers across New England. Learn about our past projects and services. The NEWWEA Spring Joint Regional Conference & Exhibition is a great opportunity to earn Technical Credit Hours, Network with others in the industry, and hear cutting edge news from industry experts.

Mass Chiefs of Police Association Annual Trade Show
2025-04-09 | Royal Plaza Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Road, Marlborough, MA, 01752, United States
You Can Find CSS at the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association Annual Trade Show at the Royal Plaza Trade Center in Marlborough April 9th.
Capital Strategic Solutions will be at the Annual Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association 2025 Annual Trade Show April 9, 2025, at The Royal Plaza Trade Center in Marlborough MA. Our team is ready to meet you and share our insights and expertise. Swing by to ask about our services and meet our public safety experts.

Capital Strategic Solutions’ Bill Keegan Featured Speaker at Rhode Island League of Cities & Towns “Workshop Wednesday”
2025-04-16 10:00 - 11:00 | MA
Join the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns for a special session with Bill Keegan of Capital Strategic Solutions on April 16, as he shares insights and tips on effective team management in municipal government. As leaders of your organizations, we often forget that meaningful “face time” with your team members is an essential component of a successful management strategy. Learning how to do this well is not complicated and does not have to be a tremendous time drain to you or your team. Bill Keegan has successfully led numerous organizations over his forty-plus year municipal management career.
Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: VIRTUAL via Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81739425973)
Topic: “Communication Techniques to Help Maximize Your Team’s Performance”
Presented by: Bill Keegan, Senior Project Manager, Capital Strategic Solutions

Florida City and County Management Association (FCCMA) Conference May 28 – 29
2025-05-28 08:00 - 2025-05-29 17:00 | Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL, 32819, United States
Capital Strategic Solutions will be at the annual Florida City and County Management Association Conference (FCCMA) May 28 and 29, at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando, Florida. We’re excited to meet you and talk about our experience serving municipalities across the United States. See you in Orlando!

Media Relations Training for Your Team
2025-07-22 09:00 - 11:00 | MA
Media Relations Training for Your Team: Module 1 – Introduction to Media Relations, will be held virtually on Tuesday, July 22 at 9:00 AM. This 2-hour training session kicks off a 3-part series designed to help municipal leaders communicate confidently and effectively when working with the press.
Register Now to Secure Your Spot!
Participants will explore how to:

Understand the current media landscape
Build productive relationships with journalists
Develop and deliver clear, effective messaging
Speak on the record with confidence and credibility

This interactive training will be co-led by Kirsten Glavin, a former television news reporter and anchor, and Liz Kalaijian, an experienced municipal communications strategist. Together, they bring a combination of real-world media insight and deep understanding of public sector communications.
Whether you’re a designated spokesperson or the go-to person during press inquiries, this session will equip you with essential tools and strategies to represent your municipality with clarity and composure. Get ready to build your confidence, sharpen your message, and communicate with purpose—backed by the experts at Capital Strategic Solutions.

Learn How to Communicate Effectively with the Media
2025-09-16 09:00 - 11:00 | MA
Register Today: Introduction to Media Relations
Module 1: Introduction to Media Relations

Tuesday, September 16 | 9:00 AM EST
Virtual via Zoom | $199 per participant

Missed the sign-up for the July training? No worries! We’re offering Intro to Media Relations again in September!
Reserve Your Seat
This two-hour training provides a foundation in best practices for engaging with the media. Participants will learn how to shape their messaging, prepare for interviews, and communicate with confidence—skills essential for public-facing professionals. Whether you’re new to media relations or seeking to refine your approach, this session delivers practical guidance to elevate your communication strategy.
This interactive session will be co-led by Kirsten Glavin, a former television news reporter and anchor, and Liz Kalaijian, an experienced municipal communications strategist. Together, they bring a combination of real-world media insight and deep understanding of public sector communications.
Capital Strategic Solutions offers specialized training programs designed to support municipal staff, department heads, and elected officials. Our sessions focus on key areas including media relations, crisis communications, public information officer (PIO) essentials, and digital communications best practices—each crafted to meet the evolving demands of public service communication.

Decked Out: How to PowerPoint Like a Rockstar
2025-09-23 09:00 - 10:00 | MA
A One-Hour Interactive Training for Better Presentations
Webinar Details
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: ZOOM (virtual)

Tired of overloaded slides, fuzzy graphics, and walls of bullet points? Join us for a fast-paced, hands-on session where you’ll learn how to design PowerPoint presentations that are clear, compelling, and impossible to ignore.

For just $99 per participant, this training is ideal for anyone who creates or reviews slide decks, whether you’re preparing executive briefings, project updates, or client-facing proposals.

What You’ll Learn

Apply the “3-Second Rule” to instantly assess slide clarity
Trim the clutter and highlight what matters most
Use visual hierarchy, whitespace, and alignment to guide the eye
Make smarter design choices with fonts, colors, and imagery
Manage decks like a pro with versioning and feedback tools

Make your next presentation your strongest yet.

Register Your Seat Today!

Capital Strategic Solutions to Exhibit at the Supplier Diversity in Procurement Fair
2025-10-09 09:30 - 14:00 | Worcester DCU Center, 50 Foster Street, Worcester, Massachusetts, 01608
Thursday, October 9 | DCU Center, Worcester, MA
Capital Strategic Solutions is proud to be exhibiting at this year’s Supplier Diversity in Procurement Fair, hosted by Keolis, in partnership with MassDOT, the MBTA, and the Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council.
This annual event brings together businesses, municipalities, and state agencies from across Massachusetts to strengthen partnerships and advance supplier diversity in public procurement. It’s an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the work being done to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
You’ll find us at Booth #110, where our team will be sharing how CSS helps cities and towns communicate more effectively, engage residents, and deliver projects that make a difference in people’s everyday lives.
We look forward to meeting fellow attendees, learning from others in the field, and continuing the conversations that help move communities forward.
Event Details
📍 DCU Center, 50 Foster Street, Worcester, MA
🕒 Thursday, October 9 | 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
📌 Booth #110

Join Us at Mohegan Sun for the 2025 NEAFC Conference & Expo
2025-10-29 - 2025-10-31 | Mohegan Sun, 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd, Uncasville, CT, 06382, United States
We’re excited to share that the Capital Strategic Solutions team will be attending the New England Association of Fire Chiefs (NEAFC) Conference & Expo, from October 29-31, at Mohegan Sun, Connecticut.
This annual event is such an important opportunity to connect with fire chiefs and fire service leaders across New England. For us, it’s more than just attending — it’s about listening, learning, and sharing how we can support the incredible work departments are doing to keep communities safe.
If you’ll be there, we’d love to meet you! Stop by Booth #205 to say hello, talk about the challenges your department is facing, and explore how CSS can partner with you to create solutions that make a difference.
We’re proud to support those who dedicate themselves to public safety, and we can’t wait to see old friends and new colleagues at this year’s NEAFC Conference.
About CSS
Capital Strategic Solutions partners with fire departments and public safety agencies to strengthen communications, enhance emergency preparedness, improve response performance, and build resilience for today’s complex challenges. We collaborate closely with each client to create customized solutions — from benchmark analysis and risk mitigation to policy updates, training exercises, and grant support — helping communities stay safer, better prepared, and ready to respond when every second counts.

Media Relations Training for Your Team
2025-11-06 09:00 - 11:00 | MA
Module 1: Introduction to Media Relations📅 Wednesday, November 6 | 9:00 AM (Virtual Session)
Join us for a two-hour virtual training designed to help municipal leaders communicate with confidence and clarity when working with the media. This session kicks off a three-part series on effective media engagement and message delivery.
In this session, participants will learn how to:

Navigate today’s fast-paced media landscape
Build productive relationships with reporters
Craft and deliver clear, credible messages
Speak on the record with confidence

This interactive workshop will be co-led by Kirsten Glavin, former television news reporter and anchor, and Liz Kalaijian, seasoned municipal communications strategist. Together, they offer real-world media insight and practical tools for public sector professionals.
Whether you handle press inquiries or occasionally speak on behalf of your community, this session will help you strengthen your message and represent your municipality with confidence.
Register Now to Secure Your Spot!

Decked Out: How to PowerPoint Like a Rockstar
2025-11-13 09:00 - 10:00 | MA
A One-Hour Interactive Training for Better Presentations
Webinar Details
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM Eastern Time
Location: ZOOM (virtual)
Tired of overloaded slides, fuzzy graphics, and walls of bullet points? Join us for a fast-paced, hands-on session where you’ll learn how to design PowerPoint presentations that are clear, compelling, and impossible to ignore.

For just $99 per participant, this training is ideal for anyone who creates or reviews slide decks, whether you’re preparing executive briefings, project updates, or client-facing proposals.

What You’ll Learn

Apply the “3-Second Rule” to instantly assess slide clarity
Trim the clutter and highlight what matters most
Use visual hierarchy, whitespace, and alignment to guide the eye
Make smarter design choices with fonts, colors, and imagery
Manage decks like a pro with versioning and feedback tools

Make your next presentation your strongest yet.

Reserve Your Seat Today!

*FREE* MEDIA TRAINING WEBINAR
2025-11-13 12:00 - 13:00 | MA
Master the Media — In Just One Hour!

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM EST
Location: Virtual (Zoom)

Want to strengthen your media presence without committing to a full-day workshop?
Join Liz Kalaijian and Kirsten Glavin of Capital Strategic Solutions (CSS) for a free, 1-hour webinar that will help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and control — no matter what questions come your way. You’ll also get a practical preview of CSS’s acclaimed Media Training for Municipal Officials series.
What You’ll Learn

How to navigate today’s fast-paced media landscape
Techniques for crafting story pitches that get coverage
Building strong relationships with reporters and news outlets
Responding to misinformation swiftly and effectively
Strategies for handling challenging press conference questions with confidence and control

Get a Sneak Peek At

Module 1: Introduction to Media Relations
Module 2: Press Conferences & Interviewing Skills
Module 3: Leading Through Crisis — Mastering the Message

Who Should Attend
Municipal leaders, public safety professionals (police, fire, DPW), public information officers (PIOs), and communications staff — anyone who may be called upon to speak to the media or represent their organization publicly.
Register Now

Capital Strategic Solutions to Present at the 2025 FSAWWA Fall Conference
2025-11-30 08:00 - 2025-12-03 17:00 | Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL, 32819, United States
November 30–December 3, 2025 | Rosen Shingle Creek, Orlando, FL
Capital Strategic Solutions is proud to join industry leaders and innovators at this year’s Florida Section AWWA Fall Conference, a premier gathering of professionals dedicated to advancing water quality, sustainability, and public engagement across the state.
As part of the Potable Reuse Communications Workshop, Nichol Figueiredo, CEO, and Mike Tusino, Project Manager, will present:
“Town Hall Talks & Tool Kits: Turning the Tide on Potable Reuse”
🗓️ Monday, December 1 | 1:00–1:30 PM
This session will explore effective communication strategies for helping utilities and communities talk about potable reuse, clarifying misconceptions, building public trust, and creating shared understanding around the future of water reuse in Florida.
Nichol and Mike will discuss CSS’s hands-on approach to public outreach, community engagement, and message development for sensitive environmental topics, drawing from real-world case studies and toolkit-based campaigns.
Join the conversation and discover how collaboration and clear communication can help turn the tide on water reuse awareness.
Learn more about the FSAWWA Fall Conference!

Media Training Module 1: Intro to Media Relations
2026-01-07 09:00 - 11:00 | MA
Media Training for Municipal Officials
Module 1: Intro to Media Relations
January 7, 2026 | 9 AM EST | $199 per participant
Led by Liz Kalaijian and Kirsten Glavin of Capital Strategic Solutions, this 2-hour session will provide municipal leaders and public safety professionals with practical tools to help build confidence and sharpen their communication skills when engaging with the media.
What You’ll Learn

Understanding today’s media landscape
Building effective relationships with reporters
Pitching newsworthy stories
Developing clear, confident messaging
Responding effectively during interviews and press events

Register Now!

Media Training Module 2: Press Conferences & Interviewing Skills
2026-01-13 09:00 - 11:00 | MA
Media Training for Municipal Officials
Module 2: Press Conferences & Interviewing Skills
January 13, 2026 | 9 AM EST | $199 per participant
Led by CSS’s Liz Kalaijian and Kirsten Glavin, this 2-hour interactive session will help you prepare for both scheduled and unscheduled media events with confidence and clarity.
Whether you’re delivering a key statement, managing a press room, or handling tough questions, this module blends practical exercises with real-world techniques to help you stay composed, credible, and on message.

What You’ll Learn

Prepare effectively for press conferences and interviews
Structure and deliver impactful press statements
Manage logistics and roles during press events
Master on-camera presence and body language
Handle challenging questions while staying on message
Avoid common interview missteps

Register Now!

Join us at Connect 351 (formerly the MMA Annual Meeting & Trade Show)
2026-01-22 08:00 - 2026-01-24 17:00 | Menino Convention & Exhibition Center and Omni Hotel in Boston’s Seaport District, 415 Summer Street, Boston, MA, 02210, United States
From January 22–24, 2026, members of the CSS team will be on site connecting with municipal leaders from across Massachusetts, sharing ideas, and talking about the real-world challenges and opportunities facing local government today. Connect 351 brings together the largest municipal trade show in New England, along with educational workshops, policy discussions, and invaluable opportunities to collaborate with peers.
If you’re attending, we’d love to see you — visit us at Booth #203 and say hello.

Media Training Module 3: Leading Through Crisis — Mastering the Message
2026-01-29 09:00 - 11:00 | MA
Media Training for Municipal Officials
Module 3: Leading Through Crisis — Mastering the Message
January 29, 2026 | 9 AM EST | $199 per participant
Join Liz Kalaijian and Kirsten Glavin for Module 3: Leading Through Crisis – Mastering the Message, a two-hour, hands-on session designed to strengthen your crisis communication skills.

Municipal officials and public safety professionals will learn how to communicate effectively during emergencies and high-pressure situations. From crafting clear, timely messages to managing media scrutiny with composure, this module will help you lead with confidence when your community needs it most.

What You’ll Learn

Define what constitutes a crisis and the types of crises municipalities face
Understand the media’s role during emergencies
Activate communication protocols and coordinate with partner agencies
Develop real-time messages that inform and reassure the public
Recognize and combat misinformation and disinformation
Plan for the aftermath of a crisis and sustained communication

Register Now!
