Justin Umagat, a proud Prep alum, wears many hats, but when asked “What are you doing now?” he answered, “first and foremost I am a father of three daughters”. In addition to being a dad, Umagat serves as a strategy advisor at King County Metro.
Umagat’s role is pivotal to the future of public transit in the greater Seattle area. His executive focus spans across many subdivisions from public to private to working as a consultant or contractor, he really does it all. But he was not able to “do it all” overnight and his key to success has been curiosity.
Umagat stuck to what he knew. He naturally always “gravitated towards the sciences” because they offered him the reassurance of “right and wrong” answers. He noted, “Numbers were easier for me; they just made sense.”
Following this mindset, Umagat pursued a degree in mechanical engineering, which may not be the prototypical background for a transit strategy advisor but in the end trusting the process led Umagat to where he was meant to be.
After college, he found himself shifting away from numbers and embracing roles that required him to speak, write, negotiate, and frame narratives. He credits his ability to adapt and grow to a deep sense of curiosity cultivated through his Seattle Prep education. “I see a challenge, I find a solution, and then I dig deeper to understand that challenge even more.”
Reflecting on his life and career, Umagat emphasized the importance of authenticity and passion. “My approach to life is very organic; it’s authentic. You do what you want to do, not because someone is paying you, and when you do things you love, you get really good at them—the rest just follows.”
For Justin, life is about more than just checking boxes or chasing paychecks. It’s about pursuing what you’re passionate about and remaining true to your values.
Looking back, Umagat realized his current values stem from those instilled in him during his time at Prep. “Prep gave me the foundation for where I am today. It led me to ask deeper questions, to look beyond just work, and to focus on making a broader social impact.”
While his professional life is thriving, he often feels his most significant contributions are in his volunteer and community efforts. Umagat is constantly seeking the Magis—the more—and following the Jesuit pursuit of Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam—For the Greater Glory of God—which is exemplified through his commitment to the greater Puget Sound community. From volunteering as a basketball coach for Seattle Parks and Recreation to serving in Board capacities, such as President of the Associated Recreational Council, Co-Chair for Seattle Parks and Rec, and board member for the Woodland Park Zoo and King County Boys and Girls Club. His volunteer work focuses on causes that are close to his heart: nature, kids, and animals. He noted that, “These are the things I find really pure.”
It goes without saying that we could all learn plenty from an individual as passionate and caring as Umagat. But Umagat’s advice for students is simple but powerful: “Embrace the moment, have fun, and remember what you’ve learned.” He encourages others to be intentional with their actions, to never compromise their ethics, and to not be afraid of failure. “If you tell yourself no before you even give yourself a chance, you’re going to strike out 10 out of 10 times.”
