Jim Rioux, PMP
Project Manager
City of Olympia
jrioux@ci.olympia.wa.us
Bio:
Shortly after becoming a member of APWA, I was invited to join the Chapter’s Government Affairs Committee and served as the Chair or Co-Chair of that committee from 2013 to 2023. In addition, I served on the Board of Directors in 2014/2015. I am particularly proud of being part of the effort to retain the services of a professional lobbyist giving APWA a voice at the state legislature. My work with the Government Affairs Committee has given me the opportunity to build relationships with a broad range of organizations and individuals that share our concerns for our communities and the people of Public Works whose efforts ensure communities across the state continue to thrive.
While I did not start my career in public works it is where I found my home. After a fascinating 14-year career in Marine Engineering working as an operating engineer on merchant ships and a test engineer at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, I moved to a career where I could be of greater service to my community. Since 2006 I have had the privilege of serving the citizens of Olympia, Washington as part of the city’s Public Works team, currently as an engineering Project Manager. I am energized by the people that I work with, the people I meet throughout the community and what we accomplish together.
I have gained much from my experiences as member of APWA and I am eager to give back. The knowledge I have acquired and relationships I have built are key to the success I enjoy professionally and personally. I am a much better Project Manager because of my APWA membership. As a chapter officer I work to ensure the chapter stays strong and that it maintains its place as the premier organization for networking and public works education.
