Bridging the Gap Between Technical Expertise & Public Service

David Fradelizio's '26 journey from environmental engineer to aspiring public administrator exemplifies the transformative power of education in shaping careers and communities. With nearly a decade of successful engineering experience under his belt, David found himself at a crossroads, seeking to expand his impact beyond technical solutions. The Master in Public Administration (MPA) program has opened new doors for him, allowing him to merge his engineering expertise with the intricacies of public service leadership.

David's career reflection began when he transitioned from engineering consulting to public works. "After working for a couple consulting firms, I was feeling unfulfilled due to the major focus in consulting being profitability and winning new work," he recalls. This shift to public works ignited a passion for community-focused projects and sparked his interest in the MPA program. David realized that while technical knowledge was crucial, the ability to shape policies and make impactful decisions was equally important. "I wanted to go beyond designing and managing projects to influencing the policies and decisions that improve our communities," he explains, highlighting his motivation to pursue an MPA as a natural progression in his career.

USF's MPA Program: A perfect fit

USF's MPA program stood out to David for several reasons. Its in-person format, compatible with his current role as an Associate Engineer in Calistoga, along with small class sizes and emphasis on practical applications, made it an ideal choice. David particularly appreciates the program's flexibility and the support he receives from professors and staff. "All of the professors and staff at USF have been incredibly supportive in helping me relate my coursework to my passion for public works," he notes. This tailored approach ensures that David gains skills directly applicable to his goal of improving local government operations and leading impactful community projects.

Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

One of the most valuable aspects of USF's MPA program for David has been the access to mentorship and networking opportunities. Through the program, David connected with Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer for Butte County and a USF MPA alumnus. "His leadership in managing critical issues like disaster recovery and public infrastructure has been incredibly inspiring," David shares. This mentorship has provided him with deeper insights into effective governance and intergovernmental collaboration, significantly influencing his approach to public administration.

A New Path Forward

Looking ahead, David envisions stepping into a Public Works Director or Deputy Director role where he can leverage his combined engineering and public administration expertise. The MPA program is equipping him with the leadership skills and policy analysis tools necessary for this transition. "The MPA program is providing me with the leadership skills, policy analysis tools, and network to transition from technical roles to strategic leadership positions," David explains. His upcoming courses in Management Practice, Organizational Behavior, and Public Policy Analysis align perfectly with his goals of leading teams and shaping effective policies in public works.

For engineers considering a similar path, David's enthusiasm is clear: "I'd say, go for it! Engineers often focus on solving problems at a technical level, but an MPA equips you to address challenges from a policy and leadership perspective." His experience at USF has been transformative, bridging the gap between technical expertise and public service. As David reflects on his journey, he encapsulates the value of the program: "For me, USF's program is bridging the gap between technical expertise and public service, enabling me to make a broader impact in my community."