James Patteson, PE
Having served in Fairfax County for 34 years in numerous leadership positions, James provides innovative solutions in the areas of economic development, community revitalization, strategic planning, community resilience, infrastructure reinvestment, public private partnerships, streamlining regulatory programs, environmental sustainability, and organization leadership. He spearheaded numerous public-private partnerships in Fairfax County to build County facilities and spur economic development. Throughout his career, he has led efforts to reinvest and revitalize older communities. As the Director, DPWES, he led efforts to create a more resilient community through effective mitigation, emergency response, and recovery planning. James served as staff to the County's Economic Advisory Council to develop the Economic Success Strategic Plan. As Director, Land Development Services, he collaborated with the development community to streamline regulatory programs and improved the predictability, consistency, and speed of the entitlement and permitting processes. Under his leadership, Fairfax has become a leader in environmental stewardship in the management of stormwater, wastewater, solid waste, and capital facilities development. James most recently managed the development of Fairfax County's strategic plan to guide future decision making and investments to achieve the Board of Supervisor's long-term vision.
Education, Certifications, & Licenses
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BS in Civil Engineering from Virginia Tech
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Master of Public Administration, George Mason University,
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Graduate, Senior Executive Institute of the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center
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Licenced PE
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Certified Building and Property Mgmt Official
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Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV-SP)
​Key Positions
(Fairfax County)
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County-wide Strategic Planning Manager
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Director of Public Works and Environmental Services
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Director, Land Development Services
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Director, Facilities Management
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Leadership Fellow in County Executive Office
Awards
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Top Ten Public Works Leader (2018), American Public Works Association
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Engineering Excellence & Leadership Award (2019) George Mason Civil Engineering Engineering Institute
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A. Heath Onthank Award, Fairfax Co's highest recognition for staff
Boards/Committees
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Va Tech Civil Engineering Alumni board
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American Public Works Association Center for Sustainability
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Board of Directors for DC Water (previous)