KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development (MEGID) has announced the appointment of experienced civil engineer and infrastructure executive Stephen Edwards as the new chief executive officer (CEO) of the National Works Agency (NWA), effective November 2, 2026.

Edwards brings extensive experience in construction management, infrastructure development, project implementation and executive leadership, having played a key role in the delivery of major public infrastructure projects across Jamaica.

He previously served as managing director of the National Road Operating and Constructing Company Limited (NROCC), where he provided strategic and executive leadership in the development, construction, operation and management of Jamaica’s tolled highway network.

Throughout his career, Edwards has been involved in the implementation of major infrastructure projects across all 14 parishes, including the Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project. The project comprises the Montego Bay Bypass, Long Hill Bypass, West Green Avenue Upgrade and Barnett Street Upgrade, all aimed at improving traffic flow and connectivity within the western city.

His professional experience also includes service at the Housing Agency of Jamaica (HAJ) and the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo), providing him with a broad background in infrastructure development across several sectors.

Edwards holds a Master of Science in Construction Management and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Florida International University, where he was inducted into the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honour Society, Chi Epsilon Civil Engineering Honour Society and Golden Key Honour Society.

He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Boston College and is a member of the Jamaica Institution of Engineers (JIE).

In addition to his work in infrastructure development, Edwards previously served as a lecturer in civil engineering at the University of Technology, Jamaica.

As the new head of the NWA, the ministry said Edwards will be tasked with providing strategic leadership in the development, maintenance and management of Jamaica’s main road network, while strengthening the agency’s operational efficiency, institutional performance and service delivery.

Meanwhile, the ministry and the NWA have expressed appreciation to Varden Downer, who served as acting CEO while the recruitment and selection process was being finalised.

The ministry acknowledged Downer’s leadership and contribution to maintaining continuity in the Agency’s operations during the transitional period.