Local Leadership, National Impact: HRSD’s Dr. Charles Bott Appointed Chair of EPA Science Advisory Board

The Virginia Peninsula continues to make its mark nationally through leaders advancing innovation and public policy. Charles B. Bott, Chief Technology Officer of HRSD, has been appointed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to serve as Chair of its Science Advisory Board (SAB).

Since 2009, Dr. Bott has led HRSD’s technology, innovation, and research initiatives, helping secure multiple patents and positioning the organization as a national leader in applied environmental science. His new role will focus on translating rigorous science into practical, impactful environmental policy—an approach that has defined his career.

Jay Bernas, HRSD’s General Manager and CEO, noted that the appointment reflects both Dr. Bott’s expertise and the organization’s broader commitment to real-world, utility-driven innovation.

The Chamber was proud to see that leadership up close during our 2025 Innovation Exchange to Boston, where we were fortunate to have both Dr. Bott and Mr. Bernas as part of the delegation. Their participation reinforced a key takeaway: the Virginia Peninsula is not just learning from leading innovation hubs—we are contributing to them.

Dr. Bott’s appointment is a strong reminder that the expertise shaping national policy is being developed right here in our region—further elevating the Peninsula’s role as a center of innovation and leadership.