Paz Gomez: The Mission Behind Public WorksFrom Navy Engineering to Building Thriving Communities

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Episode 335 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

During National Public Works Week, we're highlighting the people and stories behind the infrastructure that keeps our communities moving forward every single day.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Paz Gomez, Deputy City Manager overseeing Public Works for the City of Carlsbad, California, and one of the American Public Works Association's Top 10 Public Works Leaders of 2025.

From growing up in a Filipino Navy family to serving as a commanding officer in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps, Paz shares a remarkable journey of leadership, engineering, service, and community impact. The conversation explores the hidden realities of public works leadership, the similarities between military bases and city operations, the importance of breaking down silos across departments, and why the future of local government depends on developing the next generation of leaders.

This episode is a powerful reminder that public works is about far more than roads, pipes, and projects. It's about building communities where people can thrive.

Whether you serve in public works, utilities, engineering, administration, or community leadership, this conversation will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the people quietly building and sustaining the places we call home.

Sponsored by:

• Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software solutions designed specifically for the public sector and local government. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter

• The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a global community for local government leaders who want ongoing support, practical insights, and a trusted peer network to help them lead with clarity and conviction. Learn more at https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
• Website: https://www.HaltingWinter.com