Carlos Jaquez Appointed Director of Public Works

December 20, 2024 

Town Manager Andrew Flanagan has announced the appointment of Carlos Jaquez as the new Director of Public Works for the Town of Andover. Jaquez, who has served as Andover’s Deputy Director of Public Works since 2019, will succeed Chris Cronin, who is retiring after a distinguished career in public service.
 
 Carlos Jaquez brings over a decade of leadership experience in managing public works projects and infrastructure initiatives. His career includes significant leadership roles, including Director of Public Works for the City of Lawrence, where he played a pivotal role in the recovery efforts following the 2018 Merrimack Valley Gas Explosions. During this recovery, he helped to secure a $30 million settlement for infrastructure restoration. Jaquez has also worked as an engineer for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Town of Tewksbury.
 
 Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, Jaquez began his education in civil engineering before immigrating to the United States, where he completed his studies at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He holds a Master of Science in Engineering and has dedicated his career to improving public infrastructure and fostering innovation in civil engineering.
 
 Jaquez is actively involved in professional organizations such as the American Public Works Association, the Massachusetts Highway Association, and the Essex County Highway Association, contributing to the advancement of best practices in the field of public works. 
 
 “Carlos has consistently demonstrated his strategic vision and commitment to operational excellence in his role as Andover’s Deputy Director,” said Town Manager Andrew Flanagan. “His extensive experience and leadership in public works make him exceptionally well-qualified to lead our Department of Public Works into its next chapter. I am confident that Carlos will continue to uphold the high standards set by Chris Cronin and will be a valued and respected leader within our organization and in the community.
 
 Jaquez will officially assume the role of Director following the retirement of Chris Cronin. Cronin has been a full-time employee with Andover DPW since 1988. His nearly 40 years of service to the town began with stints as an intern and lifeguard. He then rose through the ranks of DPW, sharing his expertise and deep knowledge of the community over the course of four decades. Throughout his tenure, Cronin has been instrumental in numerous initiatives, including the construction of the Municipal Services Facility, the implementation of the water main replacement and gas disaster recovery programs, and the development of the sidewalk replacement initiative. Through his dedication and commitment, Cronin has made a lasting impact on the community and helped Andover DPW earn a reputation as one of the leading and most professional public works departments in the region.