Posted: October 11, 2011

Jay Bernas, 39

Chief of planning and analysis, Hampton Roads Sanitation District

At work

I manage four technical sections: hydraulic modeling, geographic information systems/record drawings, data analysis and planning. We provide state-of-the art data and hydraulic analyses, maintain critical infrastructure databases and plan infrastructure for future growth. We are responsible for preparing the annual capital improvement program. Prior to joining HRSD in 2005, I was a project manager for the city of Virginia Beach and worked on the 31st Street development.

Home and family

Wife Karyn Bernas, Ph.D., and children Mackenzie Bernas (8) and Zachary Bernas (6).

Volunteer activities

Virginia Beach Planning Commission - vice chairman, Virginia Aquarium Master Plan Steering Committee, Virginia Water Environment Association Sustainability Committee and St. Gregory the Great Catholic School.

Proudest work accomplishment

Leading a team in the development and implementation of a capital improvement program prioritization system that incorporates triple-bottom line concepts using a decision-science based approach. This prioritization system helps HRSD analyze projects with competing priorities in an objective way.

Balancing time

I have found the best way to balance my time is to prioritize my values. Knowing what is most important in life is the key to living a balanced and purposeful life.

Downtime

I spend a lot of time with family and friends at the beach and in the Outer Banks. I love surfing, fishing and beach volleyball.

Professional goal in five years

My main professional goal in the next two years will be completing the College of William and Mary MBA program. I am also working to increase my knowledge of public bond financing, which will help me continuously improve HRSD's capital improvement program.

Biggest success factor

My wife. Her selflessness and dedication to our family inspire me every day to do my best.

The one thing I'd change about Hampton Roads

I would create a long-term, untouchable funding source for transportation projects in Hampton Roads. The transportation infrastructure is the key to future growth in this region. There are a number of projects ready to build, but they lack the funding for execution. By continuing to debate this issue with no resolution, we will only drive the capital costs up and limit the region's growth potential.

Dream dinner party guest list

Barack Obama, John Boehner, Katie Couric, Steve Jobs, Manny Pacquiao, Jack Johnson, Matisyahu and Daniel Tosh (comedian).

What gets under your skin?

The inability of the federal government to work together to balance the budget. We need to turn off the political rhetoric and find a solution for all Americans, not the political parties.