John Paasch serves the California Department of Water Resources as the Deputy Director of the Security and Emergency Management Program. Since appointment in 2021, Paasch provides executive-level policy direction, coordination, and leadership in developing enterprise level emergency management and security programs so that DWR has clear policy directives and authorities, actionable plans and procedures, and equipped and well-trained personnel. Paasch joined DWR in 2009 as a levee inspector and flood fight specialist and has served in numerous emergency management positions within DWR’s flood management division. Most notably, Paasch managed the Hydrology and Flood Operations Office overseeing a multi-disciplinary team of managers, engineers, programmers, scientists, technicians, and analysts to deliver data, tools, and expertise in support of real-time water management with numerous state, federal, and local partners. Prior to joining DWR, Paasch was the Project Engineer for an electrical contractor coordinating design and construction. Projects included high voltage electrical, surveillance and security, mechanical, and heavy steel construction. Paasch is a licensed Professional Engineer and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Bioresources and Agricultural Engineering form Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. He also earned a Certificate in Business and a Master of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University, College Station.