Marisa K. Barrie, PE, Director
In March 2025, Marisa Barrie joined the County of San Diego Department of Public Works (DPW) as its new Director, bringing more than 20 years of experience in engineering, installation management, and public service leadership across the U.S. Army and Navy. Known for her versatility, strategic vision, and collaborative approach, Marisa is a proven leader and skilled negotiator with a strong track record in solving complex challenges with innovation and adaptability.
Before joining the County, Marisa served as Director of Public Works at United States Army Garrison Stuttgart, Germany, where she led a comprehensive portfolio supporting five installations in the Stuttgart metropolitan area. Her oversight included facilities management and sustainment, utilities and energy management, environmental services, engineering and construction, community housing and command support, master planning, and business operations.
In her new role, Marisa is responsible for the following services for the County of San Diego’s unincorporated region: Leading the maintenance of nearly 2,000 miles of County roads; traffic engineering; private development construction inspection; design engineering and construction management for public works related infrastructure; land surveying and map processing; watershed quality and flood protection; County airports; solid waste planning and diversion; closed landfill maintenance; wastewater and water systems management; and assessment districts for private road and landscape maintenance. With over 600 dedicated professionals, DPW processes more than 4,000 permits annually, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the county's infrastructure to promote public safety and quality of life.
A registered professional engineer in California, Marisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy and a Master of Science in Global Leadership from the University of San Diego. She is also a Senior Executive Fellow of the Harvard Kennedy School.
After spending over 15 years overseas in Italy and Germany with her husband and three children, Marisa brings a global perspective and deep appreciation for community and inclusion. The Barrie family is excited to reconnect with San Diego through local festivals, 5K runs, sports, and outdoor adventures.
Kathryn Stewart, PE, Assistant Director
In August 2025, Kathryn “Kathy” Stewart joined the County of San Diego Department of Public Works (DPW as its new Assistant Director, bringing more than 30 years of experience in Navy and Marine Corps facilities engineering, management, and public works leadership. Known for her strategic vision, collaborative approach, and ability to integrate complex operations, Kathy is a seasoned leader with a proven track record in delivering innovative solutions that strengthen infrastructure and enhance public service.
Before joining the County, Kathy served as the Business Director of Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Southwest (NAVFAC SW), where she was the senior civilian leader for a 3,500-person organization with an annual budget of $3.5 billion. In this role, she directed business operations across military installations throughout the Southwest region of the U.S., developed organizational policies and processes, and ensured efficient and effective operations supporting critical national defense infrastructure. Her career spans leadership in facilities engineering, construction, environmental stewardship, energy and utilities management, planning, contracting, and public works services.
As Assistant Director, Kathy provides leadership and oversight across all DPW programs, which include the maintenance of nearly 2,000 miles of County roads, traffic engineering, flood protection, watershed quality, land surveying and map processing, solid waste planning, wastewater and water systems management, and the operation of County airports. She plays a key role in shaping the department’s long-term vision and strategies, ensuring a customer service–oriented management philosophy while leveraging best practices, innovation, and data-driven decision-making to improve services for the public.Kathy is a licensed Professional Engineer and holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering. She is also certified at Level III in Facilities Engineering and Level II in Contracting under the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA). Her professional contributions have been recognized through multiple honors, including the Navy’s Superior Civilian Service Award, as well as being named a National Fellow of the Society of American Military Engineers and recipient of the San Diego Post Service Medal for extraordinary service.Outside of work, Kathy is a dedicated Padres fan and enjoys spending time with her husband, their five children, and their quirky dog. A passionate athlete, Kathy also participates in Spartan, Hyrox, and other competitive fitness events.
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