Member Spotlight Series

'InspirASIAN’

Jamie Lai

Director of Public Works/City Engineer
City of Yorba Linda, California

Featured as I-NAPA March 2025 Member Spotlight

What are the key skills that make you successful in your position?

Always being fair, open to change, and looking at the big picture

 

How does your lived experience positively influence your work?

Being a mom to 3 kids has opened my eyes on prioritizing work-life balance, focusing on creating an environment and processes that will improve the future for our children and do works that inspire the next generation of engineers.

 

What do you/did you love the most about your job?

To be able to make a difference in the community where I work. Everything from landscaping to the streets people drive on...it's nice to be able to serve the residents and patrons and ensure a high quality of life.

 

What experiences and past roles have led you to where you are today?

In looking back at my career...every step has helped to get me to where I am today. I had no clear end goal but just great mentors along the way. From getting my Bachelors and Masters in Civil Engineering at UC Irvine (zot, zot, zot!), which led to an internship in the private sector and eventually opening up my curiosity to the public sector where I have been for the last 20 years has been a fun ride so far for sure!

 

What favorite place have you traveled to or what is the next place on your travel bucket list?

I love traveling and we visit Europe every year since we have family there. My favorite place thus far is Portugal :)

Describe what a perfect day outside of work would look like for you?

Spending the day outside with my family from finding a new hiking trail or trying a new restaurant.

Who is someone who’s made a big impact on your life? Why?

My parents. They have always shown me the importance of family and balancing work and life.

Why did you join I-NAPA?

It's great to meet like minded individuals in a similar work environment!