Jim Chastain, PE, PhD, BCEE, MPH

Principal/Senior Consultant

Jim Chastain is an engineer’s engineer, and he’s a formidable force. Most people would describe Jim as a statesman, a giver, a servant, and someone who is fiercely competitive technically. But Jim notes that he enjoys mentoring people more than anything else.

In the industry for over five decades, Jim joined Chastain-Skillman as an intern first, and then as a project engineer after college graduation. Throughout his career as a civil engineer, he has continued academic pursuits that have positioned him to lead the firm.

In 1981, Jim became president of Chastain-Skillman, following in his father’s footsteps. His legacy was, and remains, his ability to connect the team to the ideals of the founding fathers of the firm.

During Jim’s tenure as president, engineering excellence reigned and this created a culture of precision that still lives today. His broad academic training and advanced statistical expertise aids in synthesizing engineering and environment, and bringing public health perspectives to projects.

Currently, Jim serves as principal and senior consultant.

He is passionate about supporting his son, Jay, who now leads the firm as president. Jim also invests professionally in the entire Chastain-Skillman team and the clients he’s spent his career working alongside.

On a day-to-day basis, Jim continues to work as an environmental engineer and focuses on studies related to water, wastewater, or water resource needs/strategies for clients.

Jim earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE), graduating cum laude, from the University of Florida in 1971 and went on to earn a Master of Engineering (ME) in Environmental Engineering; also from the University of Florida in 1972.

In 1991, Jim earned a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the University of South Florida and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the University of South Florida in 2004.

Additionally, Jim was awarded the designation as a Professional Engineer (PE) from the State of Florida in 1975. He is a Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE), certified by the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists in 1997.

Contact Us