Renato Castillo is the community resilience and disaster preparedness coordinator at WVSU Extension Service, contributing to the Community Vitality and Economic Development program. A native of Huntington, WV, Renato holds an associate degree in clinical laboratory science and a master’s in environmental science from Marshall University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology from West Virginia University.

Before joining WVSU Extension, Renato worked as a medical laboratory scientist at Charleston Area Medical Center, St. Mary’s Hospital and Bon Secours Mercy West Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. His background in the medical field emphasized the importance of empirical data and scientific integrity.

While at WVSU, Renato has focused on addressing brownfield issues affecting West Virginia communities. The state’s challenges include the increased threat of flooding, health disparities, limited access to funding and capital for community-based organizations and aging or inadequate municipal infrastructure. Many small communities in West Virginia lack the training and resources needed to manage adverse weather events. WVSU Extension aims to help these communities build capacity and provide resources to citizens and municipal leaders. Renato is also experienced in navigating the federal grant system and has served as a technical advisor for several nonprofit organizations.

Renato resides in Huntington with his wife, Elizabeth, their son, Gene and their dog, Roy. He enjoys fishing in trout streams and browsing antique stores for old records in his spare time.