The City of Arlington recently announced that Alex Whiteway will be taking the reins as the new director of Arlington Water Utilities, bringing with him a robust background in public service and water utility management. Whiteway ascends to this new role with an extensive 20-year tenure at the City of Mansfield's Water Utilities Department. According to the City of Arlington, Texas, his most recent position was as the Assistant Director of the department, a role he held since 2018.
Whiteway's journey in the water industry began on a wastewater crew in Mansfield and led to a diverse array of leadership positions. He is credentialed with a Class A Water Operator license, among several others. "I've been in this industry for 20 years, and coming from a neighboring city, I have had the opportunity to work with City of Arlington staff," Whiteway told Arlington, as he reflected on his new appointment set to commence on June 17.
During his time in Mansfield, Whiteway oversaw a sizable $42 million budget, managed a full-time staff of 55, and helped navigate numerous capital projects. He is known for his commitment to incorporating new technologies to ensure the quality of service for the community. In his own words, as per the City of Arlington, Texas, "I'm looking forward to identifying how I can contribute my own skills and experience in this new role to not only maintain, but elevate, the already outstanding level of service and culture of excellence that the City of Arlington's Water Utilities Department provides to its residents."
Arlington City Manager Trey Yelverton expressed confidence in Whiteway's capacity to lead, citing his relevant experience with regional water suppliers, leadership within the state water industry, and his consistent investment in professional development. Whitway's educational qualifications include a bachelor's degree in criminology and a master's in public administration from The University of Texas at Arlington. Moreover, he has served the water community as board chairman of the Texas Water Utilities Association Board in 2022 and 2023.
Keith Brooks, the Public Works Director, has filled the position as acting director following the retirement of the former Arlington Water Utilities Director Craig Cummings in 2023. With Whiteway's portfolio of certifications and practical expertise, Arlington looks forward to maintaining and enhancing its standard of water utility services for the city’s residents.
