Rene Trevino ’78, Architecture

For service members at the Navy Region Southwest, the notable sustainability program is simply "a way of life." Executive Director Rene Trevino has played a significant role in implementing that way of life – environmentally sound practices he views as simple, sensible and cost effective. The methods have been so successful that many are now being put into service throughout the Navy.

The Navy Region Southwest's successful energy conservation program has reduced overall consumption by 12 percent in the past year.

Water consumption is down by one billion gallons in the last several years, including more than 300 million gallons last year. Under Trevino's direction, the Navy installed an extensive Xeriscape program that has reduced water consumption and landscape maintenance costs.

Wind Turbines at San Clemente Island

The aggressive renewable energy program includes wind, solar, geothermal and synthetic fuels. The renowned Integrated Solid Waste Management Program incorporates recycling and debris diversion.

"We see ourselves as not only stewards of our mission to support the men and women who wear the uniform of our country, but more importantly, we are stewards of the environment and stewards to the taxpayers," Trevino said.

Much of what Trevino promotes in his professional life he learned as a student at Cal Poly Pomona's College of Environmental Design, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture in 1978. He is a registered architect in California and a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Society of American Military Engineers. Trevino also serves on the university's National Development Council.

Trevino wants to share his expertise with Cal Poly Pomona as the university moves toward its goal of climate neutrality. He is interested in tying the university's commitment to be green to actual projects that will lead to a completely sustainable campus.

"My experience at Cal Poly Pomona was life changing," he said. "What I learned there helped me form the foundation for what I do today.

Every aspect of my education comes into play, even 30 years after my graduation. Most important are the relationships I created that made a lasting impression on my everyday life. Without the dedicated professors and staff of Cal Poly Pomona, I would not be where I am today."

During his 30 years of federal service, Trevino has received many awards. Most notable are the Meritorious Civilian Service Award presented by the Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet and the Superior Civilian Service Award presented by the Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

While his work mission is to achieve sustainability, Trevino describes his personal mission as the "Five Fs": faith, family, fun and finances, which lead to freedom. He lives with his wife Carla in Poway.