Staff testimonials
Why I love working at the District
Tim Miller
Bureau Chief
Bureau of Water Resource Information
“My introduction to the District was through the internship program when I was a graduate student at Florida Institute of Technology. Even in that role I felt valued and that my contributions were meaningful, and the intent was to utilize my abilities but to also provide growth and learning, which has continued. At each step in my career at the District, three things have been a large part of why I am excited about working here: people, support, purpose. Co-workers and leadership care about what we do, but also about who we are as individuals and success as a team. Resources to accomplish goals and support to pursue them are made available. The betterment of the resource we are responsible for is an important purpose, not just for our generation but looking into the future, and whenever you attach meaning and value to the work you do, it’s powerful.”
Stacey Leitheiser
Regulatory Manager
Division of Regulatory Services
“I am very proud to be a part of an organization that works to improve and protect the environment. Florida is a beautiful state with abundant natural resources. It is vital work that the District does to preserve these resources. I have been at the District for a little over 5 years, and in that time, I have expanded my knowledge of the regulatory processes related to flood control and protection of vulnerable ecological resources. In the role of public servant, it is very rewarding to be able to help educate and support the public in understanding the mission of the St. Johns River Water Management District. In addition, as a proud employee, I appreciate the supportive environment that promotes a healthy work-life balance. It truly is a privilege to be a member of the team.”
Marc Van Heden
Supervising Professional Engineer
Bureau of District Projects and Construction
“I’ve been with the District for 20 years now. My career through regulatory roles and project management has been incredibly fulfilling. I’ve had the unique opportunity to be part of wide range of activities with a great team and supportive management. I started at the District in regulatory compliance. That role was always interesting and rewarding, sometimes tackling challenges beyond typical engineering problems. Later I shifted to the Bureau of District Projects and Construction, to work on vital water resource project and participating in excitement of construction. These roles have offered an ideal balance between office duties and outdoor assignments, which suits me perfectly.”
Tim Waln
Senior Project Manager
Bureau of Transportation and Facilities
“As a veteran public employee (38-plus years full time), it has always been important to me to work for a high caliber and reputable agency. I was drawn to the St. Johns River Water Management District because of its exceptional leadership staff, the core missions of the agency (I believe that water is our state’s most precious resource), and how the agency values its constituents. Additionally, I value an employer that empowers and trusts staff to perform their assignments. From day one, I have felt very welcomed at the District and all staff have been very friendly and nice. As a Floridian, I first became aware of the District’s work by enjoying its natural resources. From boating and shrimping on the St. Johns River to wildlife watching and camping on several of the conservation lands, I always wanted to come back for more. The work done by District staff really matters and I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the team.”