Employee Spotlight

Celebrating 20 Years of Service: Andrew Orfila

August 27, 2025

Honoring Two Decades of Planning, Modeling, and Public Service

This month, SBCAG celebrates a milestone for Andrew Orfila—20 years of dedicated service. As Principal Transportation Planner, Andrew has been at the heart of the agency’s most complex planning efforts, shaping regional plans, advancing modeling tools, and helping ensure that critical policies align with local, state, and federal needs.

In this special Q&A, Andrew reflects on his journey, the projects that shaped him, and the opportunities that lie ahead for the region.

Reflecting on a Career in Public Service

You joined SBCAG in 2005 and have played a key role in some of the agency’s most complex planning efforts. What initially drew you to the world of transportation planning?

“I had been working for a couple of years at a geotechnical engineering company and was ready for a career change. I responded to a help-wanted ad in the Santa Barbara News-Press and interviewed for a traffic technician position at a local engineering firm. I got the job and worked my way into a planner position, which connected me with the County, City of Santa Barbara, and SBCAG. When an opportunity arose to apply for a job here, I took it. I really enjoy this field—the work is rewarding and I feel very lucky to have found something I truly enjoy as a career.”

Your work often takes place behind the scenes. What’s something people might not realize about how critical modeling and data are to transportation planning?

“Modeling is a critical piece of the Regional Transportation Plan. We work closely with the California Air Resources Board and the Federal Highway Administration to make sure our assumptions meet their guidelines. I’ve been focused on our models since 2019, and while the last major update was in 2012, I’m excited about transitioning to our new activity-based model and updating land use in the next Regional Transportation Plan – Sustainable Communities Strategy update. And I don’t do this alone—I lean on a technical team, as well as other Metropolitan Planning Organization partners at San Luis Obispo Council of Governments and Association of Monterey Bay Area of Governments, and the State Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 5. It’s always a collaborative effort.”

Planning with Purpose

When you think about the technical work you’ve led, what do you believe has made the biggest difference for the agency or region?

“Our Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan policies stand out. They were updated and are now embedded in local general plans and zoning ordinances. That means if a project applicant comes in with a proposal near an airport, it must adhere to those policies. The work lives on in those local plans, shaping land use decisions every day.”

Modeling land use and travel demand requires both analytical thinking and strategic insight. What drives your approach to problem-solving in that space?

“Early communication is the most important factor. Modeling doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s always for someone, whether that’s internally, for SBCAG’s Joint Technical Advisory Committee, the Board, or the California Air Resources Board. Setting the table as a group and discussing planning assumptions upfront is critical. So is making sure expectations are clear—what the model can do and what it can’t. Being transparent about limitations can save a lot of unnecessary work later.”

Looking to the Future

As you reflect on your 20 years with SBCAG, what do you see as the biggest opportunity ahead for transportation planning in Santa Barbara County?

“In my first few weeks here, SBCAG’s Transportation Technical Advisory Committee and the Board of Directors were reviewing the 101 In Motion Plan. Seeing the final funding piece for the 101 project awarded by the California Transportation Commission just weeks ago was personally gratifying.

It’s also been encouraging to see new funding programs like Senate Bill 1 and the Active Transportation Program support local projects. Looking forward, I’m excited about the next iteration of our local sales tax measure and identifying regional priorities. We have a unique opportunity to define our county’s transportation future.”

A Personal Note

Is there a part of your daily routine or a small behind-the-scenes moment that’s become especially meaningful over time?

“A couple of years ago I bought an e-bike and started riding into the office. Since there aren’t many lunch options nearby, I usually eat in—but as an introvert, I’ve had to push myself to join coworkers for lunch. It’s been worth it. The culture here is welcoming and casual, and those moments of connection have meant a lot.”

Behind the Scenes

You’ve worked through many planning cycles and updates—has there been a memorable moment or story that stands out during your time at SBCAG?

“There are so many! Giving then County Supervisor Salud Carbajal a ride in my old car to the North County Subregional Committee, participating in the former Traffic Solutions photo shoots, and sharing memories with colleagues past and present. I’m grateful for the experiences, what I’ve learned, and the work we’ve done together.”

What’s one thing people might not know about you that’s helped shape your professional journey?

“Many years ago, I was invited to participate in the Leadership Santa Barbara County program. It was designed to connect public and private organizations and build professional development skills. I really enjoyed the experience and even returned as a topic day advisor for two years. The program shaped my growth and expanded my connections across the region.”