Jack Silva

Since coming to RISD in 1996 as a mechanical supervisor, Jack Silva has contributed a wealth of engineering and leadership experience to the needs of a growing and changing campus. This work has been integral to RISD’s expansion into downtown Providence over the past decade, with his extensive involvement especially crucial to the complex construction of the Chace Center project, the renovation of Memorial Hall and the redesign and renovation of the award-winning Fleet Library at RISD in a former banking hall, with nine floors of new student housing in the high-rise above it.

As VP of Campus Services, Silva oversees campus facilities, along with safety and auxiliary services. In his previous position at RISD—as associate vice president of Facilities and Safety—he oversaw the Public Safety department, led an expanded facilities planning group and managed campus construction, renovation, fire and life safety programs, building and grounds operations, resource allocation and space use.

Before arriving at RISD, Silva held various engineering positions and managed his own marine engine sales and service business. He holds numerous engineering licenses and is a licensed captain with the US Coast Guard. He is also affiliated with the Association of Higher Education Facilities Officers and the Association for Facilities Engineering.

Silva holds a BS in Marine Engineering from Massachusetts Maritime Academy and a Certificate in Facilities Management from Northeastern University.