Posted on July 14, 2025
CHARLESTON, SC — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District welcomed its 91st commander today at a change of command ceremony. Lieutenant Colonel Todd Mainwaring assumed command from Major Patrick Ripton during a ceremony officiated by Brigadier General Zachary Miller, commanding general, South Atlantic Division, USACE.
Lt. Col. Mainwaring brings more than 18 years of military leadership to the position. A seasoned member of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, he previously served as deputy commander of both the USACE Nashville District and the Huntsville Center. In those roles, he led efforts in team building, strategic recruitment, and talent development, while also supporting enterprise-wide planning and executive-level communications. Most recently, he served as deputy commander during the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, supporting interagency response efforts.
Mainwaring holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the United States Military Academy and two Master of Science degrees from Stanford University. He received his commission in 2007 and later returned to West Point as a faculty member, teaching civil engineering from 2016 to 2019. His graduate studies focused on sustainable construction and energy-efficient building design—expertise he brings to the District’s complex civil works and military missions.
“This is an exciting time for the Charleston District, and I’m proud to be a part of it. I look forward to working closely with our local, state and federal partners as we shape a more resilient and secure future for South Carolina,” said Lt. Col. Todd Mainwaring, district commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District. “Together, we will build on the District’s proud legacy, tackle the challenges ahead, and deliver with excellence.”
The Charleston District plays a vital role in supporting South Carolina’s growth and resilience through major initiatives such as the Charleston Peninsula Project, Folly Beach Renourishment, inland flood risk management efforts, military construction, disaster response, and regulatory compliance. Under Mainwaring’s leadership, the District will continue delivering these essential programs that improve the lives of communities across the state.
