From Student Worker to Executive Leadership at Ventura County Public Works Agency

Matt Ehret Promoted to Watershed Protection’s Deputy Director for Design and Construction

(VENTURA COUNTY, California) July 11, 2022– Matt Ehret, a 20-year employee with the Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA), has been promoted to Deputy Director for Design and Construction within Watershed Protection (WP).  His new role involves planning and managing environmentally responsible flood protection and stormwater management assets throughout the County as well as making continuous improvements to the flood alert system. 

Ehret has a unique history with the County. He started his career with VCPWA as a student worker. Upon completing his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, he was hired in the Advanced Planning Section of WP, working his way up to the position of Project Engineer. 

“It has been a great journey, from student worker through many steps of learning, plus ongoing training in our True North — Dedicated to Innovation and Excellence,” says Ehret.  “VCPWA has exceptional leadership and provides employees a way to grow and achieve.  I’m excited to return to WP Design and Construction in a new capacity as I’m still committed to designing and building flood control facilities to serve Ventura County.”  

During his time in VCPWA WP’s Design and Construction division, he worked on various projects to protect Ventura County residents from a potentially devastating flood.  One such project was the 2004 replacement of the Arroyo Simi channel between Stow Street and Yosemite Avenue, a vital flood-protection component for the residents of Simi Valley.  He also contributed to the Bus Canyon Tributary replacement channel, completed in 2006, replacing a damaged section while increasing the capacity.  

Ehret’s next role began in 2008 with a move to VCPWA’s Engineering Services (ES) as an Engineer IV, leading to a series of promotions ultimately obtaining a position as an Engineering Manager III.  In that role, he managed the design and construction of the County’s most extensive facilities, including the Ventura County Medical Center Hospital Replacement Wing, the Todd Road Jail Health and Programing Unit, medical office buildings, and solar arrays. 

“Of the many competent and professional candidates, Matt was the most uniquely qualified to fill this position with his exemplary skill set and dedication to innovation and excellence.  We congratulate Matt as he transitions into his new role in Watershed Protection and look forward to the many ways VCPWA will continue to benefit from his leadership and expertise,” said Glenn Shephard, Watershed Protection Director.