The San Pablo City Council on Monday recognized Associate Engineer Jimmie Zhou for earning the American Public Works Association (APWA) Northern California Chapter’s 2025 Chrysalis Award, which honors emerging leaders in the public-works field.
Acting Public Works Director Matt Brown presented the award, praising Zhou as a “critical” member of the department whose technical expertise and mentorship have strengthened city infrastructure efforts since he joined San Pablo in 2018. Brown credited Zhou for advancing innovative engineering practices on key city projects, including the Sutter Avenue improvements, and for participating in, and graduating from, the Contra Costa Local Government Leadership Academy.
“The Chrysalis represents transformation, and Jimmy is emerging as a true leader in engineering,” Brown said.
Zhou accepted the award with humility, thanking city leadership, his colleagues, and his wife, Paula, for their support. “This recognition is a reflection of the amazing team I work with,” he said. “I look forward to continuing to serve this community and make a positive impact for years to come.”
Members of the San Pablo City Council joined in congratulating Zhou, commending his professionalism, teamwork and leadership, and noting the sky is the limit for his career.
