Experienced professional with a strong track record in directing and managing large-scale programs. Consistently achieves success through strategic planning and execution. Skilled at implementing innovative solutions to enhance productivity and operational effectiveness. Recognized for fostering teamwork and adapting to evolving business needs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Director, Environmental Program Office
Department of Veterans Affairs
08.2023 - Current
Director of the Environmental Program Office for VA Construction and Facility Management (CFM) responsible for implementation of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance for all major construction and land acquisition nationwide and ensure subject matter expert (SME) support for Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) actions within the VA
Manage a team of NEPA, RCRA, and CERCLA SMEs responsible for conducting Phase I and II environmental due diligence actions, NEPA environmental assessments (EA) and NEPA environmental impact statements (EIS) for major construction and acquisition actions nationwide
Oversaw geotechnical analysis, wetland studies, biological and endangered species assessments, topographic mapping, traffic analysis, air quality analysis, and water quality analysis studies.
Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
Improved project efficiency with strategic planning, resource allocation, and time management practices.
Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
Leveraged professional networks and industry knowledge to strengthen client relationships.
Evaluated employee performance objectively using established metrics, leading to fair compensation adjustments based on meritocracy principles.
Overseas Environmental Subject Matter Expert
Air Force Civil Engineer Center
08.2021 - 08.2023
Air Force (AF) senior technical expert for all issues associated with environmental legal requirements for 115 overseas AF installations and GSUs in 112 different countries
Technical representative to the Office of the Secretary of Defense Overseas Compliance Group, provide technical oversight and assistance to AF units overseas and ensure compliance with the Overseas Environmental Baseline Guidance Document, Foreign Governing Standards, and host nation agreements
Develop AF implementation strategy, policy, and guidelines for installation environmental programs overseas
Lead AFCEC Goal 3.3.3; restructured goal to refocus on continuous process improvement initiatives within all Directorates
Developed executive level Overseas Environmental Program Management Review, first in over 10 years
Led team of engineers and scientists to determine groundwater flow and contamination at Lajes Field, Azores
Represent Department of the Air Force at US-Portuguese Technical Commissions; briefed Portuguese Delegation
Orchestrated Continuous Process Improvement event to streamline and optimize planning and programming for overseas environmental requirements
Established best practices for knowledge sharing, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Managed complex projects from inception through completion, delivering high-quality results within tight deadlines.
Enhanced team performance by providing expert guidance on critical projects and strategic initiatives.
Optimized subject matter content by conducting extensive research and incorporating industry trends.
Enhanced client relationships by delivering tailored advice and demonstrating in-depth product knowledge.
Drove innovation by encouraging exploration of novel approaches to project challenges.
Served as go-to expert for resolving technical challenges, enabling smoother project progression.
Chief, Regional Planning Branch
Air Force Civil Engineer Center
10.2019 - 08.2021
Lead the Regional Planning Branch responsible for the implementation and execution of the AF Air Installations Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ), Operational Noise, Airfield Planning and Waiver programs, and Climate Change Planning
Planned, programmed, budgeted, and executed requirements in support of enterprise-level programs
Provided training and reach back support to installations, Major Commands (MAJCOMs), and Headquarters Air Force (HAF)
Executed AICUZ and noise studies across the AF
Supported execution of National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) and strategic mission beddown activities
Conducted trend and data analysis to quantitatively assess program effectiveness and inform investment decisions
Developed tools and processes to support execution of regional planning programs
Stood-up the AFCEC Climate Working Group; developed and deployed the AF Installation Climate Survey
Served as the primary staff officer for the formulation and execution of the United States Army Medical Command (MEDCOM) Sustainability and Environmental Compliance Programs.
Optimized resource allocation, effectively balancing priorities and managing competing demands.
Delivered high-quality results by setting performance metrics and monitoring progress against targets.
Leveraged technology tools for enhanced project tracking, reporting, and information sharing among team members.
Responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive program for the command, worldwide.
Managed $7.4M budget ensuring Program, Planning, Budget and Execution (PPBE) and Program Objective Memorandum (POM) cycles addressed command’s compliance needs.
Managed enterprize-wide contract to provide support to 40 different sustainability teams within the MEDCOM.
Ensured MEDCOM leadership was kept informed of significant regulatory trends.
Responsible for resolving problems, ensuring customer needs and expectations were achieved, and rendering sound management decisions.
Rebuilt MEDCOM Sustainability program to comply with new executive orders and DOD implementing instructions
Developed first ever comprehensive sustainability policy and MEDCOM Sustainability guidance documents.
Published first annual Sustainability Report focused on energy and waste reduction and ensured transparency and positive stakeholder engagement.
Fostered key partnerships between the Health Facilities Planning Agency (HFPA), the Public Health Command, Defense Health Agency, US Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM), US Army Corps of Engineers, and Department of the Army Installations, Energy and Environment.
Initiated monthly Sustainability Education Series to assist subordinate units with continued implementation of Sustainability initiatives.
Overhauled outdated Sustainability website; created Community of Practice within the Facilities SharePoint site.
Worked with HFPA to ensure sustainability design elements incorporated into construction projects.
Established strong relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring support for program initiatives.
Managed and supervised administrative and daily program operations, complying with policies and regulations.
Developed strategic plans, setting clear objectives and achievable milestones for the team.
Managed multiple strategic projects with numerous sub-projects.
Regional Installation Support Team, Air Quality Manager
Air Force Civil Engineer Center
07.2013 - 11.2014
Provided air quality technical support to seven Air Force installations within Texas as part of the AFCEC Central Region Environmental Installation Support Team (IST).
Reviewed air permits for regulatory compliance.
Clarified policy and provided guidance to installations on all aspects of air quality for subordinate units.
Tracked installation progress in meeting Air Force and DoD-level goals and metrics.
Ensured bases within Texas Area of Responsibility complied w/ Clean Air Act (CAA) & Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations.
Revised seven installation FY14-FY23 air quality budgets ensuring full compliance for lowest possible cost.
Provided SME support to installation for no-notice site inspection; escorted State and Federal Regulators; adjudicated concerns onsite in real-time; site specific knowledge and communication skills avoided notice of violation.
Chief, Environmental Management
Air Force Civil Engineer Center
11.2008 - 11.2010
Served as the Installation Natural Resources Element Chief, Asset Management Flight, Civil Engineer Squadron.
Advised senior staff on local (German State/Federal), and Department of Defense (DoD), environmental laws, regulations, and directives.
Assisted with creation of the Comprehensive Asset Management Plan, developed strategy, and provided guidance to meet current and long- range environmental goals and objectives.
Responsible for PPBE in support of the environmental program.
Provided environmental engineering design comments for multiple construction projects including three schools, a shopping center, fitness center, and childcare center; ensured sustainability features incorporated into design.
Led environmental remediation actions to close and return two geographically separated units (GSU) to host nation.
Responsible for coordination with German Ministry of Defense and local regulators.
Oversaw integrated cross-functional Sustainability Team focused on process improvements, targeting recycling, air emissions, aircraft, and flight- line de-icing, storm water, hazardous waste (HW), and pollution prevention (P2) total life-cycle analysis.
Analyzed/solved encroachment and noise issues in preparation of mission expansion; ensured compliance with final governing standards for Germany, and health and safety regulations allowing for beddown of critical missions.
Chief, Pollution Prevention Branch
Robins Air Force Base
04.2001 - 10.2002
Provided oversight of Warner Robins Air Logistics Center (WR-ALC) P2 Programs encompassing energy conservation, green building design, alternative fueled vehicles, Hazardous Material (HM)/HW reduction, waste recycling, and emergency spill response for depot industrial processes, aircraft operations, & administrative/residential areas.
Supervised a cross-functional team of engineers and scientist.
Provided emergency response support for petroleum, oils, and lubricants (POL) and chemical emergencies.
Pollution Prevention Program Manager
US Air Force European Command
03.1999 - 06.2000
Managed a Pollution Prevention Program for 12 installations located in 5 geographically/culturally diverse countries.
Served as the command’s Environmental Compliance and Assessment Management Program (ECAMP) auditor.
Defended 280 line-item requirements to the Pentagon for congressional approval, increased P2 budget by 300%.
Established strong relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring support for program initiatives.
Developed strategic plans, setting clear objectives and achievable milestones for the team.
Pollution Prevention Program Manager
86th Civil Engineer Squadron
11.1997 - 03.1999
Responsible for all P2 activities and spill response training and equipment purchases within the installation.
Conducted HW and energy opportunity assessments; netted $200 thousand annual savings.
Initiated Solid Waste Survey and cost-effective modifications to contract, saving $1 Million annually.
Led efforts to reuse construction debris: saved over $2.3 million in disposal costs and material purchasing fees.
Implemented Household Hazardous Material Program for Kaiserslautern Military Community.
Identified erroneous air emission requirements saving ~$1.5 million per year in aircraft maintenance costs.
Environmental Program Manager
65th Air Base Wing
06.1995 - 11.1997
Served as the HW/HM Program Manager, the P2 Program Manager, & the Natural/Cultural Program Manager.
Overhauled HW program: provided training to over 200 facility managers; conducted base-wide survey & developed 1st baseline database of 150 waste streams; achieved 79% reduction of HW and HM audit findings.
Conducted and implemented opportunity assessments, cut hazardous waste generation by 48% the first year.
Developed and administered Endangered Species Survey & Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan
Environmental Program Manager
3rd Wing
02.1994 - 06.1995
Served as the installation Environmental Compliance Assessment and Management Program (ECAMP) Manager, the Spill Response and Toxic Substances Program Manager and the Restoration Program Manager in accordance RCRA, CERCLA and the Clean Water Act (CWA).
Authored Spill Response Operations Plan and development of new Spill Prevention and Response Plan.
Coordinated Environmental Leadership Training Symposium for Pacific Air Forces; worked protocol for distinguished visitors, arranged expert speakers, managed all logistical, and audio and visual support.
Developed contract specifications and cost estimates; monitored contractor performance for 4 landfill closures.
Education
M.D. - International Project Management
University of Applied Science
Stuttgart, Germany
Bachelor of Arts - Biological Sciences
California State University
Sacramento, CA
Certificate - Hazardous Materials (HM) Management
University of California
Davis, CA
Professional Military Education (In Residence) -
Squadron Officers School
Maxwell Air Force Base, AL
Skills
Highly energetic, motivated, and focused self-starter with 25 years’ environmental management experience
Diverse experience working complex environmental compliance, restoration and sustainability programs, stateside and overseas
Positive leadership & communication style; successfully engage w/ team members at all levels; culturally sensitive
Accomplishments
Coordinated weekly project team meetings and drafted agendas to increase meeting efficiency.
In support of FY24 NEPA requirements for CFM, started 28 Environmental Assessments (EAs) and one Environmental Impact Statement (EIS); completed 34 Categorical Exclusions (CATEX) and five EAs.
Oversaw completion of geotechnical analysis, wetland studies, biological and endangered species assessments, topographic mapping, traffic analysis, air quality analysis, and water quality analysis studies with a total value of over $15M.
Awards
Exemplary Civilian Service Award, 08/01/23 and 08/01/21
One of two selected for the 2023 Air Force Legislative Fellowship Program
AFCEC Supervisory Cat III Quarterly Award Winner, 04/01/20, 10/01/20, 01/01/21
Notable Achievement Award, 2020
Quality Step Increase, 06/01/19
Army Civilian Meritorious Service Metal, 2019
Army Commander’s Award for Civilian Service Metal, 2019
Practice Greenhealth Environmental Excellence System for Change Award, 2017, 2018, 2019
Spangdahlem Air Base Civil Engineering (CE) Category III Civilian of the Quarter, 01/01/09
United States Air Forces European Command Award for 'Environmental Restoration', 2009
Secretary of Defense P2 Award, 'Team', 2002, 'Industrial Installation', 2001
USAF Awards for 'Outstanding CE Environmental Flight', 1998
USAF Awards for 'P2-Non-Industrial', 1998
USAF Awards for 'Recycling', 1998
USAF and Air Combat Command Awards for 'Environmental Quality (Overseas)', 1997
US Pacific Air Forces Awards: Environmental Quality, 1995
US Pacific Air Forces Awards: Compliance, 1994
US Pacific Air Forces Awards: Restoration, 1992
Timeline
Director, Environmental Program Office
Department of Veterans Affairs
08.2023 - Current
Overseas Environmental Subject Matter Expert
Air Force Civil Engineer Center
08.2021 - 08.2023
Chief, Regional Planning Branch
Air Force Civil Engineer Center
10.2019 - 08.2021
Sustainability Program Manager
US ARMY Medical Command
11.2014 - 10.2019
Regional Installation Support Team, Air Quality Manager
Advanced Medical Support Assistant at Department of Veterans Affairs, Central TX Veterans HealthcareAdvanced Medical Support Assistant at Department of Veterans Affairs, Central TX Veterans Healthcare
VETERAN CLAIMS EXAMINER INSURANCE at Department Of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits AdminVETERAN CLAIMS EXAMINER INSURANCE at Department Of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Admin
Health System Specialist at Department of Veterans Affairs/ Veterans Health AdministrationHealth System Specialist at Department of Veterans Affairs/ Veterans Health Administration
Rating Veterans Service Representative at Department Of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits AdminRating Veterans Service Representative at Department Of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Admin