Advocacy is a core tenet of Randall Yim’s life.
As deputy under secretary of defense for installations, Yim was instrumental in expanding redevelopment tools, advancing no-cost economic development conveyance authority and supporting community-led reuse of former installations.
Yim’s career began in environmental law working on hazardous waste site cleanup, followed by many years in public service. From the start, his work aimed to help others.
Yim served as the principal deputy assistant secretary of the Army for installations, logistics, and environment, before joining President Bill Clinton’s administration in 1999 as deputy under secretary of defense for installations. Throughout his tenure, Yim was a staunch advocate for housing needs in defense communities.
Yim oversaw and provided policy guidance for the department’s installations throughout the world, accounting for 600,000 structures worth over $600 billion. He also was responsible for directing the department’s privatization and outsourcing initiatives, increasing reliance on industry partners, and managing the department’s infrastructure budget and policies.
His infrastructure-focused work helped defense communities with issues such as housing, energy, base closure, base reuse, and economic development. His service was transformative for many military families and communities throughout the world.
ADC recognized Yim with the Senator David Pryor Special Achievement Award for his work with base closure communities. Only six people have been given the award since its establishment in 1995. Yim was also awarded the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service, the U.S. Secretary of Defense’s highest civilian award.
In 2001, Yim became director of the General Accountability Office, where he specialized in homeland security and national preparedness for three years. His work provided guidance during the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the restructuring of the nation’s security standards. Yim later served as director of the Homeland Security Institute from 2004 to 2005. He has since worked in a consulting capacity and continues to share his knowledge with government agencies throughout the country.
To this day, Yim continues his advocacy through sharing his knowledge and impact with others. In 2026, Yim and his wife Constance Whiteside, both Stanford University graduates, established an endowed scholarship fund for future students.
This profile is a part of the ADC50 Changemakers series, where we highlight members of our community who have supported defense communities and ADC over its history.
