After spending months selecting the right candidates, Houston Public Works filled several key leadership positions this summer in an effort to better serve the public. The department is accredited by the American Public Works Association (APWA) and is responsible for a 627-square mile service area.
“Houston Public Works continues to build a team dedicated to maintaining a nationally recognized public works agency. These leaders bring experience, innovation, and excellent customer service mindsets. They join Houston Public Works during a time of transformation,” says Public Works Director, Carol Haddock.
Assistant Director of Infrastructure, Capital Projects – Juan Chavira, PE
Chavira served 25 years as a U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps Officer (Lieutenant Commander). He has a history of service with public works departments in Texas, California and Italy. Chavira is a professional engineer and a certified energy manager with a master's in civil engineering from San Diego State University.
Assistant Director of Rapid Delivery, Transportation & Drainage Operations – Michael Wahl, PE
Wahl has an extensive background managing capital engineering projects over his 13 years of service with Houston. Previously, he served as a consultant for NASA, Houston METRO, and the Texas Department of Transportation. Wahl is a professional engineer and graduated with a bachelor's in electrical engineering from the University of Houston and an MBA from Houston Baptist University.
Assistant Director of Management Services, Houston Permitting Center – Elizabeth Orton
Orton was promoted after serving as a customer service manager for Houston Public Works since December 2016. Prior to serving the city, she was senior director of operations and administration for the Asia Society and spent 14 years in leadership positions with the Target Corp. Orton has a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University.
Regulatory Compliance Director, Houston Water – Phillip M. Goodwin, P.G., J.D.
Goodwin joined the city of Houston as an intern in 2007. He served as an enforcement attorney for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and worked as an environmental consultant and project manager in the oil & gas industry. Goodwin is a professional geologist and a member of the State Bar of Texas. He graduated with a bachelor's in geology and political science from Albion College and has a J.D. from the South Texas College of Law in Houston.
Planning Director, Houston Water – Sharon Citino, J.D.
Citino has been with the city of Houston for 2 years. Previously, she was an assistant city attorney for Loveland, Colorado. Citino graduated with a bachelor's in history from Kenyon College, a Master of Arts in history from Marshall University, and a J.D. from Ohio State University Moritz College of Law.
