Maria Fraser, PE, MPA
Maria Fraser, PE, MPA, is an accomplished civil engineer and public works leader with more than 35 years of experience guiding infrastructure projects across Southern California. She currently serves as Deputy Director of Public Works and Assistant City Engineer for the City of Jurupa Valley, where she oversees complex engineering initiatives, manages teams, and ensures the successful delivery of public infrastructure improvements that serve growing communities. Her technical expertise spans school facilities, commercial developments, roadway rehabilitation, roadway realignment, storm drain systems, and sewer and water systems upgrades and replacements essentially covering the full scope of citywide capital improvement programs.
Throughout her career, Maria has led the design and construction of numerous high-profile projects, including new schools for the San Bernardino Unified School District, commercial facilities, and major public works improvements such as the Reche Canyon realignment and the Murrieta Hot Springs widening. She has held leadership roles with municipalities including Palm Desert, Chino and as a consultant for the City of West Covina, Adelanto and Glendora as City Engineer, as well as in the private sector, where she directed multi-disciplinary teams through planning, engineering design, and construction management. Her work reflects both technical precision and a commitment to building infrastructure that supports safe, sustainable, and vibrant communities.
IIn addition to her professional achievements, Maria has been an active leader in the engineering community, serving as President for two years, and currently as past President of the American Public Works Association (APWA) Inland Empire Branch and contributing her expertise to this professional associations as well as participating in their mentorship program. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from California State University, Long Beach, and a Master of Public Administration from Grand Canyon University. Dedicated to service, Maria has also volunteered with community initiatives including Grand Terrace Community Days, Grand Terrace Women's Club and Living for Giving, a 501c3 nonprofit that aims to help underprivileged families. With her blend of technical excellence, leadership, and community commitment, she continues to make a lasting impact on public works and civil engineering in California.
• Resident Engineer Academy
• RCE 56005
• Chi epsilon
• Certified Stormwater Manager (CSM)
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, California State University
• Masters of Public Administration, Grand Canyon University
• APWA. I.E
What do you attribute your success to?
Throughout both my consulting career and later in governance, I have been fortunate to have exceptional mentors who played a pivotal role in my growth and success. They not only shared their knowledge and experience but also created an environment where I could take on challenges, knowing that mistakes were opportunities to learn rather than failures to dwell on. Their guidance helped me refine my skills, make better decisions, and approach setbacks with resilience, focusing on correcting errors, learning the lesson, and moving forward with confidence. Their influence shaped my ability to grow as a professional and as a leader, always striving to improve while embracing the journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning and Lead with Integrity, Compassion, Respect and Kindness
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Follow your Dreams and Never give up until you reach them
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My most Important values in my work are integrity, honesty, reliability and ethics. In my personal life the most important values are faith and family and gratitude.