Donny Cross

headshot of Donny Cross

Online MPA Graduate Student
School of Public Affairs
College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts

SDSU

Bio

My name is Donny Cross and I am a registered professional engineer and registered geotechnical engineer in the state of California. I have nearly 12 years of engineering experience in both the private and public sector. I am currently working as a Transportation Engineer at Caltrans where I am overseeing the construction of the new Otay Mesa East Port of Entry. I previously worked for the US Army Corps of Engineers where I designed and oversaw the construction of critical infrastructure such as dams and levees throughout California as well as the new VA hospital under construction at UCSD. My private work experience primarily included the design and construction oversight of repairing failing infrastructure.

My primary professional goal is to become the District Director of Caltrans or similar at a City or Municipality. Throughout my career I have worked on numerous projects in which construction defects, design flaws or poor planning have resulted in very costly contract change orders and repairs. Working on these projects have taught me valuable lessons which has inspired and motivated me to reach decision making positions in which I can make a positive difference in building the infrastructure our society needs. A master’s degree in public administration will aid me throughout my career in making critical decisions and managing a large public agency. I am determined to achieve my goal of being a strong leader in our community and I believe in myself to make the best decisions in the public’s interest. I look forward to working with my cohort and professors to help each other achieve our goals.