Most importantly, choose something that genuinely motivates you, as passion and curiosity will carry you far in both your studies and your career.
Justin Weiss Instructor
- Faculty
With over a decade of experience in public administration, Justin Weiss is now a full-time faculty member at East Texas A&M University, where he teaches in the Public Administration/City Planning program. He is dedicated to equipping the next generation of public administrators and city planners with the tools needed to drive positive change in their communities.
Before entering academia, Weiss served as the assistant city manager and economic development manager for the city of Fate, leading initiatives that fostered economic growth and community development in alignment with the city's vision. He played a key role in business recruitment, retention, and expansion, working closely with stakeholders such as landowners, investors, and civic groups to develop and execute comprehensive economic strategies.
A Conversation with Justin
What advice would you give a prospective or current student about choosing a major?
My advice is to explore your interests and strengths while staying open to new possibilities. Choosing a major is an important decision, but it does not define your entire future. Look for subjects that excite you and align with your long-term goals, but also think about the skills you want to develop and the type of impact you hope to make. Don’t be afraid to seek advice from mentors, professors or professionals in fields that interest you. Most importantly, choose something that genuinely motivates you, as passion and curiosity will carry you far in both your studies and your career.
In college did you ever change majors?
Yes, several times! I was drawn to so many different possibilities that it was hard to choose just one. Fortunately, after an extended experience abroad, I decided to major in Spanish with a minor in business. I knew I wanted to pursue a master's degree, and when I discovered city management, earning a Master of Public Administration felt like a natural choice.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
When I’m not at work, I enjoy traveling with my family. We love exploring new places and trying new foods. I also enjoy beekeeping. It’s a fascinating hobby with a sweet reward!
Education
- MPA, Local Government, Financial & Management Analysis, Brigham Young University, 2010
- B.A., Spanish, Business Management Minor, Brigham Young University, 2013
Experience
- Instructor, East Texas A&M University
- Adjunct Professor, East Texas A&M University
- Assistant City Manager/Economic Development Manager, City of Fate
Teaching Areas
- Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Public Administration/City Planning
Featured Courses
- CPCB 301: Introduction to Public and Nonprofit Administration
- CPCB 400: Finance anf Budgeting for City Planning
- CPCB 410: Research and Analysis for Public Administration and City Planning
Research Areas
- Fiscally Sustainable Development Patterns
- Economic & Community Development
- Leadership in Local Government
Awards
- 2022 Strategic Leadership and Governance Award, International City/County Management Association
- 2022 Community of the Year, American Planning Association – Texas Chapter