TOWSON, MD—Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski has appointed Lauren Buckler as director of the Department of Public Works and Transportation, officials announced on Tuesday.

Buckler, a Baltimore County native, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and a Master’s degree in Project Management from George Washington University. Buckler held several senior leadership positions with the Maryland Department of General Services (DGS), including as assistant secretary of design construction & energy.

Buckler has nearly 20 years of experience in engineering, design, construction and public works. In her current role as Deputy Director of the Department of Public Works, she oversees the Bureau of Utilities, Bureau of Engineering and Construction and Metropolitan District Financing and Petitions. She has been responsible for the procurement of all design and construction contracts for Baltimore County, the development of new programs, including Green Infrastructure and Sidewalk Connectivity and the restructuring of architecture/engineering procurement to reduce the timeframe roughly in half from its previous process of more than 300 days.

“Lauren’s extensive experience, dedication to excellence and proven leadership will continue to enhance our commitment to delivering equitable, efficient and accessible services for every Baltimore County resident,” Olszewski said. “I look forward to continuous growth and innovation at the Department of Public Works and Transportation under her leadership for years to come.”

Buckler’s appointment is subject to County Council approval. If approved, she will take the helm of a department with a total operating budget of more than $500 million and a portfolio of more than $1 billion.

“I am honored to continue to serve Baltimore County in this role and I look forward to continuing to provide solutions to the County I have always called home,” Buckler said. “I am thankful to County Executive Olszewski for believing in my abilities and allowing me to expand on the work began by County Administrative Officer Walker.”

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.