John C. Ramirez, M.P.A., REHS

Assistant Director of Environmental Health

Monterey County Health Department

Salinas CA 93906

Biography

John Ramirez is the Assistant Director of Environmental Health for the Monterey County Health Department in Salinas California. He holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Organic Chemistry from the University of Oregon and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University, San Francisco. His career in public health began in 1989 as a hazardous materials specialist for Monterey County. He is a State of California Registered Environmental Health Specialist and a Certified Hazardous Materials Specialist through the California Specialized Training Institute (CSTI).

In 1999 Mr. Ramirez was appointed supervisor of the Hazardous Materials Management Services program. In 2004, he and his team gained recognition for leadership as the Outstanding Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) in the State of California.

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Mr. Ramirez was appointed Assistant Director of Environmental Health for Monterey County in 2004. He currently directs a total of 30 staff in the Solid Waste Management Services, the Recycling Services as well as the Consumer Health Protection services for Monterey County.

In his over 17 years of experience, he has served on a variety of local and statewide committees; most recently he served as a member of the State of California Illegal Dumping Enforcement Task Force at the request of the Californian Integrated Waste Management Board.  

Leadership Development Opportunities

Aceptance to EPHLI  as a fellow is one of the highest honors I have received. I have met and networked with a group of outstanding leaders and peers whom have greatly influenced and encouraged me in my carrer. I have found that we share many challenges and face similar obstacles nationwide, and I am not alone in trying to find solutions to our similar problems or concerns.

EPHLI has helped me develop both personally and professionally through this educational opportunity. Prior to my participation in EPHLI there was some concern on my part as to how I was developing as a leader. Through the use of the Skillscope assessment, the Myers-Briggs and the Change Style Indicator, I have learned more about my leadership style and how I approach situations involving change.  I have also learned where my personal leadership style needs improvement and how to use the Indivdual Development Plan to measure and plan for my future develpoment.

I am honored that I was selected, and I am grateful to my mentor and my instuctors who have provided me with a lifelong learning experience that few may have the opportunity to take advantage of. The skills I have learned will allow me to use them effectively throughout my carrer, and I am anxious to continue learning more about systems thinking and how it can help me in my current position.