Matt and his family at Joshua Tree National Park
For October, DEQ turns the spotlight on Matt Davis. Matt joined the agency in 2017 and served in several positions, including managing air quality teams in Headquarters and Northwest Region, and spending several years representing DEQ at the Oregon Legislature as a Senior Legislative and Policy Analyst. Last month, he was named as our permanent Policy and External Affairs Manager after serving in the position as interim since January.
You have been a fixture here for some time and worn a lot of hats, but for our readers who haven’t had an opportunity to work with you, what do you do here at DEQ currently?
As DEQ’s Policy and External Affairs Manager, I focus my time on supporting an amazing group of professionals responsible for budget development, communications, engagement with the Environmental Quality Commission, and government relations.. My day-to-day is extremely diverse – which is something I love!
What is your favorite part of working for the agency?
My favorite thing about working for DEQ is the DEQ’ers. Meeting people throughout the agency and learning about their work is so energizing to me. I have always been so impressed with the incredible skill, knowledge, passion, and care that people bring to their work at DEQ – be it at the lab, vehicle inspection stations, the regions and headquarters.
We also like to ask some questions about fun stuff too. Away from the office, what is your favorite hobby?
I LOVE motorcycles and motorcycling, but after a couple close calls and a baby, I traded my motorcycle in for an e-bike with a toddler seat. Exploring Portland with the wind in my face, and my daughter on the back is a new thrill that I’m fully embracing!
DEQ’ers are big on travel, so I have to ask, if you could travel anywhere, where would you like to go?
The Oyamel fir forests in Mexico, where Monarch butterflies migrate and roost every winter. Their multi-generational migratory journey is really awe-inspiring to me. I’d love to see it some day!
Lastly, if you could have any meal tonight, what would it be?
I’m a big believer that the best meals are those enjoyed in good company. I love feasting with my friends and family, no matter the cuisine. That said, oysters on the half-shell are never a bad thing.
I totally agree! Thanks Matt for taking the time to answer our questions. Stay safe on that bike!
—Michele Thompson, DEQ Web Publisher