Mary Pat Filbert is a dedicated civil service professional whose career, compassion, and commitment to public service have positively shaped the City of Lockport for nearly three decades.

Born and raised in Livonia, NY, Mary Pat’s passion for creativity and education first led her into the arts. She graduated from Livonia High School in 1989, earned an AAS in Graphic Design from Finger Lakes Community College in 1991, and later completed her BA in Art Education at Buffalo State in 1993.

After college, she relocated to Lockport, where she spent a few years substitute teaching before beginning what would become a long and impactful career in public service with the City of Lockport.

In 2019, Mary Pat remarried her husband, Ron—someone she’s known since junior high and reconnected with years later. She is also a proud mother of two daughters: Elizabeth, a geologist working in the Stillwater and East Boulder Mines in Montana, and Rebecca, a veterinary technician assistant at Banfield Pet Hospital in Orchard Park, NY.

Mary Pat began her City of Lockport career on November 15, 1995, serving in both the Water and Assessment Departments. On April 4, 2005, she transitioned into the Civil Service office. For over 20 years, she has been an essential presence there, ultimately becoming the Personnel Director for the City of Lockport—a role marked by leadership, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to supporting the city’s workforce.

In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, Mary Pat serves in key roles that strengthen city operations and ensure employee representation: Member of the City of Lockport Personnel Committee and Vice-President of the Department Head Union.

Among her many professional accomplishments, Mary Pat is particularly proud of the relationships she has built with employees across every department and union. She maintains an open-door policy that has earned her the trust of elected officials, department heads, and employees citywide.

Her work extends far beyond traditional personnel duties—often supporting employees facing personal struggles, domestic challenges, or substance abuse issues. Guiding individuals toward resources and solutions has been some of the most meaningful work of her career. As she describes it, “It is very rewarding.”

Mary Pat has gained a deep appreciation for the value of human connection. Listening, understanding different perspectives, and working collaboratively toward solutions are skills she considers essential. Interacting with people from all walks of life—each with unique needs and challenges—has shaped her into the compassionate leader she is today.

Her message to newcomers is simple and powerful:

“Be a sponge. Learn everything you can from New York State Civil Service. Attend online courses and participate in the Civil Service Institute. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance. She credits her Municipal Service Division representative, Jason Laird, for invaluable support throughout complicated matters. Lean on your peers across the state—“They are a HUGE asset,” she emphasizes.”

If Mary Pat could implement one change to the civil service system, it would be a quicker turnaround time for receiving exam grades—a practical improvement that would benefit both agencies and candidates.

When she’s not assisting employees or navigating civil service challenges, Mary Pat enjoys tending to her flower and vegetable gardens—a peaceful and grounding hobby that reflects her nurturing nature.

Mary Pat Filbert exemplifies what it means to serve with heart, dedication, and integrity. Her longevity, leadership, and genuine care for the people of Lockport make her a valued member of NYSAPCSO and a shining example of excellence in local government.

We thank Mary Pat for her ongoing service and celebrate her many contributions to the civil service community!

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