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Victoria Watlington
Party:
Democratic
Incumbent:
Yes
Previous experience in elected office:
Charlotte City Council for District 3 (2019-2023); At-Large (2023–Present)
Age:
~38
Occupation:
Former Technology and Innovation Leader at Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, and Trane Technologies
Description:
Watlington’s campaign emphasizes systems-level thinking in city planning. Her priorities include creating safe and stable neighborhoods, fostering inclusive community engagement, and ensuring equitable access to opportunity through economic mobility. She focuses on connecting the city via strategic mobility plans, infrastructure upgrades, and investments that reflect local community input. In May, Watlington claimed there was a “brazen disregard for dissenting opinions and the rule of law” during a closed session meeting in which council members authorized a settlement with Charlotte chief of police Johnny Jennings. Mayor Vi Lyles, joined by several other council members, objected to the allegations, prompting Watlington to soften her language saying she wanted the city to conduct itself with “truth, transparency, respect and authenticity.” Watlington is in a bloc of council members who are generally more skeptical of city initiatives and development projects than the council majority.
Other personal:
Watlington holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Florida, a master's degree in industrial management from UNC Charlotte, and a doctorate in systems engineering from UNC Charlotte. She was recognized in 2019 as one of the 50 Most Influential Women by the Mecklenburg Times and one of the 40 Under 40 by the Charlotte Business Journal.
The Election Hub Questionnaire
Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live).
Education:
PhD, Infrastructure and Environmental Systems – UNC Charlotte, 2023
Graduate Certificate, Public Policy Research and Analysis – UNC Charlotte, 2023
MS, Engineering Management – UNC Charlotte, 2013
BS, Mechanical Engineering – University of Florida, 2009
Certifications:
- Professional Engineer (NC, SC)
- PMP® Certified
- Licensed Building Contractor (NC)
- LEAN Six Sigma Black Belt
Occupation: Innovation Leader
Residence: Charlotte, NC
Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you?
I’m running because I believe Charlotte deserves strong, experienced leadership that puts people first. As a current City Councilmember, I’ve worked to deliver results on issues that matter most to our community—neighborhood safety, affordable housing, and economic opportunity. I’ve built a record of bringing people together, navigating tough challenges, and making decisions rooted in both data and community input. Voters should pick me because I combine proven experience with a vision for the future: ensuring Charlotte grows in a way that is equitable, sustainable, and inclusive.
To learn more about my specific policy work, visit https://winwithwatlington.com/issues/
What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected?
In my first six months, I want to listen to Charlotteans and update the community agenda to reflect what’s most important to residents right now. A top priority will be assessing our housing landscape—specifically, evaluating the progress of our $100 million housing bond. We need to understand how those dollars are performing against today’s supply, vacancies, and household incomes, and then make the adjustments necessary to ensure our investments are truly meeting the needs of our community.
What is your position on the proposed transit tax and why? Will you vote in favor of it or against it in November?
I am continuing to listen to residents about the proposed transit tax. The themes I’m hearing are clear: ensuring small businesses have a fair chance to participate in design and construction, making appropriate investments on the east side of Charlotte, addressing long-neglected orphan road maintenance in the ETJ, and preventing displacement along future rail lines. My position will be shaped by these community priorities, because any transit plan must work for all Charlotteans.
What endorsements from any notable NC organizations or individuals have you received?
(At the time of this writing)
Charlotte Metrolina Labor Council
Workers United & SEIU
Black Political Caucus
Tell us something unexpected about you that voters may be interested to know.
I love bringing people together—whether it’s family, friends, or neighbors—because building community starts at home. I’m an engineer by day, and a kick-back/game night hostess in my free time. Send me your best appetizer recipes!