University of the Pacific civil engineering alumna Jodi Almassy ’04 started her appointment as director of public works for the city of Stockton on June 22. This appointment is a milestone in Almassy’s career with the city, which began in 1998 when she started as an engineering intern.

“Stockton is my home,” shared Almassy. “I was born and raised here, went to elementary school, high school and university and continue to live and raise my own family in this city. It is such an honor to lead a department of hard working, capable people, who are focused, every day, on improving the quality of life for our community.”

At Pacific, civil engineering students gain real-world experience through the Cooperative Education program (CO-OP) which connects juniors and seniors with experiential internships provide hands-on experience with organizations like the city of Stockton. For many students, these internships jumpstart their careers and give them a competitive advantage in the job market post-graduation.

Almassy was hired as a junior engineer in 2005 and promoted to assistant engineer in 2006. After receiving her professional engineer license in civil engineering from the State of California, she ascended through all levels and engineering titles in just a few years to the position of deputy public works director.

City Manager Harry Black shared his vision for Stockton and how Almassy is an important addition to the leadership team. “To become the best city in America to live, raise a family, and grow a business, we need to provide an exceptional level of customer service to the community, which requires accountability, innovation and efficient and effective management of city resources. Jodi has demonstrated incredible leadership and ability to respond to community concerns and priorities, even during this most difficult period of our state and local emergency. We have seen her vision, compassion and ability to professionally manage and lead a department faced with a broad range of responsibilities and demands, and we look forward to her continued leadership as the director of public works.”