Amy Bublak, MPA
Amy Bublak, MPA, is the Mayor of the City of Turlock, where she has served since December 2016. A strong advocate for economic development, she brings a practical, community-focused approach to local governance, emphasizing public safety, responsible growth, and quality of life for residents. Her leadership reflects a long-standing commitment to public service and collaborative problem-solving.
Before assuming mayoral office, Mayor Bublak dedicated more than two decades to law enforcement, serving as a Law Enforcement Officer with the Cities of Richmond and Modesto from 1993 to 2015. Her extensive experience in patrol and enforcement shaped her deep understanding of community safety, accountability, and the importance of trust between public institutions and the communities they serve. She retired from law enforcement with a reputation for professionalism and service.
Mayor Bublak holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) with a focus in Sociology from California State University, Stanislaus. Her academic background, combined with her professional experience in law enforcement and municipal leadership, informs her balanced and pragmatic approach to governance. As Mayor, she continues to champion policies that strengthen Turlock’s economic vitality while maintaining a strong foundation of public safety and civic engagement.
• California State University, Stanislaus
California State University, Stanislaus
Master of Public Administration
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the many strangers who became mentors along the way—individuals who offered guidance, encouragement, and opportunities at pivotal moments in my career. Their willingness to invest their time, share their experience, and believe in my potential played a defining role in shaping my path and reinforcing the importance of service, leadership, and paying that mentorship forward.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple but powerful: finish what you started. Staying committed, following through on responsibilities, and seeing goals to completion builds credibility, resilience, and trust—qualities that have guided me throughout my career in public service.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is simple: just show up. Be present, be prepared, and don’t underestimate the power of consistency. Showing up—even when it’s uncomfortable or challenging—creates opportunities, builds confidence, and allows others to see your commitment and capability over time.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is navigating the responsibility of being the first female mayor in my city. Breaking new ground comes with heightened scrutiny, expectations, and the need to continually prove credibility, but it also creates the opportunity to open doors for others, challenge long-standing norms, and demonstrate that effective leadership comes in many forms. Those challenges have strengthened my resolve and reinforced the importance of representation, resilience, and leading by example.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity and the Golden Rule—treating others the way you want to be treated. These principles guide my decisions, shape how I lead, and influence how I interact with others, ensuring that respect, fairness, and honesty remain at the core of everything I do.
Locations
City of Turlock CA
Turlock, CA 95382