Plash WINTER 2021 - DIVERSITY & INCLUSION UPCOMING TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES - Illinois Section AWWA
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Address service requested: ISAWWA, 545 South Randall Rd., St. Charles, IL 60174
Splash
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
UPCOMING TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
WINTER 2021
YOUR PARTNER IN
PROTECTING
OUR MOST PRECIOUS
RESOURCE.
• DRINKING WATER
supply, pumping, treatment, storage,
disinfection, distribution, R&RA/ERP, operations
• WASTEWATER
facilities planning, full-service design,
nutrient removal, biosolids management,
permit review & assistance, operations
• RENEWABLE FUELS/
WASTE-TO-ENERGY
planning & design, anaerobic digestion,
renewable natural gas cogeneration
• STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
quality, volume, permitting
• PUBLIC SAFETY &
MUNICIPAL MANAGEMENT
public safety & emergency management,
building inspections, security services,
public management, technology consulting
• FUNDING STRATEGIES / GRANT
ASSISTANCE, P3 DELIVERY MODELS
• CONSTRUCTION SERVICES /
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Splash
About Illinois Section AWWA Table of Contents
WINTER 2021
Illinois Section AWWA
545 South Randall Road Chair Report...................................................................................................... 6
St. Charles, IL 60174
866-521-3595 Chair Elect Report............................................................................................ 8
Established in 1881, the American Water Past Chair Report........................................................................................... 10
Works Association is the largest nonprofit,
Executive Director Report............................................................................ 12
scientific and educational association
dedicated to managing and treating water, ISAWWA Palooza – March 23........................................................................ 13
the world’s most important resource.
With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA District 2D Trustee Report............................................................................ 14
provides solutions to improve public health,
protect the environment, strengthen the District 3 Trustee Report.............................................................................. 15
economy and enhance our quality of life.
Save the Date for WATERCON 2021............................................................ 17
The Illinois Section of the American Water
ISAWWA Training Opportunities.................................................................. 18
Works Association (ISAWWA) has more
than 2,200 members throughout the State Education Committee.................................................................................... 21
of Illinois and is dedicated to safe and
sustainable water for Illinois. The Association Technology Committee.................................................................................. 25
develops and delivers low-cost and
convenient education seminars for water Diversity and Inclusion.................................................................................. 27
industry professionals in person and virtually. Gaining Traction on Diversity & Inclusion.................................................. 29
If you would like to advertise in
Women in Water............................................................................................. 31
Splash, please contact Jeff Kutny,
Marketing Manager, at jeff@kelman.ca. My Introduction to the Water Industry...................................................... 32
Toll-free: 866-985-9789
Congratulations to Our Scholarship Winners........................................... 35
To submit an article for inclusion,
email articles and photo files to: ACE21 Registration Now Open!................................................................... 37
Splash Editor, nadine.miller@rockfordil.gov.
Become a Water Ambassador...................................................................... 40
AWWA News..................................................................................................... 42
Board & Committee Chair Listing ............................................................... 48
Published by Advertiser Product & Service Center......................................................... 53
On the cover:
Lake Marmo at Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois.
Tel: 866-985-9780
Fax: 866-985-9799
©Jim Roberts | Dreamstime.com
www.kelmanonline.com
Managing Editor: Monique Doyle
Design/layout: Dani Goulet
Marketing Manager: Jeff Kutny
Advertising Co-ordinator: Stefanie Hagidiakow
2021 © All rights reserved.
The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole
or in part without the express consent of the publisher.
Chair Report
Jeff Freeman
WATER AMBASSADORS
H
ello 2021, it is good to be with
you. Thank you for suggesting
we will return to some
semblance of normalcy throughout your
year. While everyone will undoubtedly
like you better than 2020, we should
remember what we were able to
accomplish in 2020. We continued to
provide uninterrupted high-quality water
and wastewater services during a very
difficult time. We weathered the financial
storm that 2020 generated, and we outside the water industry even toilet is flushed. The water that comes
leaned on each other when we needed it. thought about water and wastewater out of the faucet must be safe and
The water industry is a resilient services throughout the pandemic. meet all regulations. The water that is
group. It showed that throughout Water is expected to flow when the flushed down the toilet must be treated
2020. It is likely that very few people sink is turned on, and go away when a properly before it is reintroduced back
6 Splash WINTER 2021
into the environment. Pretty easy to
accomplish, right? Of course not!
There are so many smart, In addition to the Water Ambassador
hardworking people who work together
to provide clean water to drink and safely Program, diversity and membership
convey and treat wastewater so it can be
reintroduced back into the environment. inclusion will continue to be a focus of 2021
There are very sophisticated facilities
needed to meet those objectives,
too. Both the human and mechanical
culture’s mix. We must continue to find I hope 2021 is a brighter year for all of
resources and pipe networks and
new ways to include underrepresented you. I look forward to seeing you soon.
appurtenances needed for safe and
groups in all Section activities, so we can Happy trails to all (RIP, Eddie).
clean water need continued investment
benefit from the mix of viewpoints.
to maintain the high-quality services that
our culture demands.
Now is the time for our industry to
move out of the shadows and let a little bit
of the spotlight shine on us. It is not to get
the pat on the back that you all deserve.
It is to create better awareness of what
it takes to maintain high-quality water
and wastewater systems. We also need
to shine a light on the industry so we can
recruit more high-quality individuals into
the industry. With a better understanding
of what it really takes to provide water to
that faucet and toilet, there will be a better
understanding when water rates need
to be increased to fund needed repairs
within our water and wastewater systems.
What can solar energy
Through Paul May’s leadership, along
with a dedicated group who worked
on the public perception campaign
do for your organization?
throughout 2020, the Section will
facilitate a program to get us closer
to the limelight. It will recognize those
communities whose leadership values
water and is committed to educating • Electricity bill savings from day one
the general public about water and
wastewater services. I am so excited to • Requires no investment – Sol Systems
see the Water Ambassador Program roll
out in 2021. Thank you, Paul and team; pays for construction & maintenance
you have done a fantastic job of flipping
the switch for the water industry. • Energy cost stability for budgeting certainty
In addition to the Water Ambassador
Program, diversity and membership • Carbon-free electricity during
inclusion will continue to be a focus of peak demand periods
2021. Robyn Doescher and Jamie Rott
have worked with their committee to
Power your facility
develop a strong mission and vision.
with inexpensive,
In 2021, the committee will work
clean energy.
together to accomplish the diversity and
membership inclusion strategies.
Andres Tapia is credited with stating, Find out how your
“Diversity is the mix. Inclusion is making
the mix work.” Our Section must
plant can benefit: www.SolSystems.com
Energy@SolSystems.com
continue to strive to facilitate a diverse
industry that is consistent with our
Splash WINTER 2021 7
Chair Elect Report
Randy Lusk
2020 EVENTS AND MORE TO COME IN 2021
2
020 has been one hell of a ride
and like many of you I am glad it’s
coming to an end. It has been such a
different time within the Section, with 90%
of everything we did being virtual – from
classes to happy hours. Being your Chair
Elect has proven to be challenging and
exciting all at the same time. It has been
very difficult doing so many things virtually past. I learned so much by chairing this in March 2021. Please visit the ISAWWA
since I just love being in the company program but I could not have done it website to see how to participate in
of people. I am sure many of you have without Annie, our Executive Director, this award you can receive for your
experienced the same frustrations. As the and the team that volunteered to help. community. Thank you, Paul, for all the
Chair Elect, I was asked to participate in as Thank you John Van Arsdel, Dave Moody, hard work you put into this new program.
many committees as I could find time for. Todd LaFountain, and Brent Studnicka. In September I helped organize an
I want to thank the mentoring, veterans, I could not have asked for a more event called Rock, Paper, Scissors. It was
small systems, public perception, diversity involved group to help with this task. The exactly what the name states. All the
& inclusion, and COVID-19 committees, next item we will work on is a Policy & contestants had signs with a picture of
and the water utility council, for having me Procedures Manual. Wish us luck. a rock, scissors, and just a plain piece of
participate with them in 2020. In 2020 Carolyn Grieves created a paper. It was a lot of fun and a great way
I was asked earlier in the year to committee about public perception. She to interact virtually. Thanks to all those
chair the by-laws committee in order recruited many members to help get this who participated and helped organize it.
to revamp it to match AWWA’s new committee off the ground. The first item In December we had a Virtual Cheers
format. I had no idea what I was doing the group worked on is the ISAWWA Water & Beers event that had trivia, best Zoom/
as I have never reviewed or worked Ambassador Program. Paul May took the live background, and an ugly sweater
with any organization’s by-laws in the lead and created the program we roll out contest. In the beginning we had a break
out in two groups to ask questions
related to Christmas. My favorite
FIRE HYDRANT PAINTING SERVICE question was “What do you plan on
• BLASTING • getting Randy for Christmas?” I cannot
repeat most of the answers… Special
IANT
• PRIME COAT • FINISH COAT • thanks to the ISAWWA staff for getting
this event together in very short notice.
Thank you to the three sponsors of the
event: Baxter & Woodman, Engineering
Enterprises, Inc., and ME Simpson.
I want to take a moment to thank Jeff
Freeman for all he has done as Chair in
BLASTED FINISH COAT
2020, especially during a pandemic. He
is a true professional and handled the
pressure without missing a step. Thanks
for all you do, Jeffrey, for ISAWWA.
There will be much more for 2021
For more information contact: and I will become Chair in March. I look
Mark Giarrante GIANT... forward to getting back to in-person
Providing Superior Service
Phone 847-388-3711 for Municipalities Since 1989 events, especially WATERCON, which will
E-mail mark@giant2u.com WWW.GIANT2U.COM be happening in August 2021.
See you soon!
8 Splash WINTER 2021
Past Chair Report
Carolyn Grieves
JUST DO IT (AND YOU’LL THANK ME SOME DAY)
A
s I write this article, this year and
my time on the ISAWWA Board
is wrapping up. I’ve truly enjoyed
my experience as a Board member and a
chair of this Section. Thinking about what
I will do next with the Section and AWWA
makes me think back to my very first
WATERCON (though I don’t think it was
called that way back when!).
My boss at the time, Larry Thomas,
stopped by my desk and said, “Sign
up for WATERCON and go.” Sounds
great, I thought! I didn’t really know
what to expect but I was game. I got to
the conference and it was big with so
many people that all seemed to know
each other. I remember Bev Thomas,
Larry’s wife, taking time to introduce
me to people (anyone who knows Bev
can completely visualize her kindness!).
Still, even with that helpful hand I
felt completely out of place. Other
than knowing a couple of coworkers
and some friends from school, I felt
disconnected from the comradery that I
could see all around me.
A year or two later I got involved with In the meantime I started going to – good for you! Find what connects with
the Vulnerability Assessments that water WATERCON again. Lo and behold… I you and try out different committees
utilities were required to complete after knew people! I could connect with more and attend different events. I completely
9/11. I attended a training class and met professionals in the water industry understand when you walk in a room,
Laurie Dougherty, ISAWWA’s now retired because I was now more involved in it virtual or not, and don’t know anyone –
but long-time and awesome Executive myself. I have always felt very lucky to it’s hard! To everyone who is involved in
Director. She said, “We have a Safety have a great job in engineering that I ISAWWA… invite people to attend with
Committee, you should join it.” So I figured love. But being a part of ISAWWA gave you. Encourage your YPs to join and share
I’m doing all this work right now… why me something I didn’t know I needed… your own story with them. Go say hi
not? I started to meet with people who a community. Darn it, Larry was right and introduce yourself to someone who
did similar work and had similar interests. (thank you, Larry!) – going to WATERCON looks like how I felt that first WATERCON.
I learned how to put on seminars and is great. Now I try to remember this story (I hope we can do this again in person
conferences and connect with people in when I invite, ask, encourage, maybe even next August!) I want more people to
AWWA. I worked on developing ILWARN drag people to attend ISAWWA events, experience what I have enjoyed with
and improved my presentation skills by committee meetings, and conferences. ISAWWA over the years. My volunteer
giving presentations about the statewide I had to find what connected with me to work with the Section has helped me
mutual aid agreement program. I truly enjoy being a part of the Section. grow, make friends, and find my place
eventually went on to chair the Safety However, it was people’s encouragement in what I believe is the best industry
Committee, not being a safety professional along the way to “just do it” that helped there is… the water industry. As I learned
at all, and grew and learned more about me take the steps. To everyone who is myself and I tell people now – just do it
leadership. (Thank you, Laurie!) just starting to get involved with ISAWWA (and you’ll thank me some day).
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©2021 Ferguson Enterprises, LLC 0121 2395451Executive Director Report
Annie Storey
IT’S IN THE NUMBERS
A
year ago, as I started my career journey with ISAWWA,
I would have told you that I’m not a numbers kind of
ISA WWA
person. But as the year progressed and we were thrown
every which way, numbers became my daily routine. How many
members were signed up for trainings? How was the budget
looking? How many email addresses bounced? What amount of
online storage do we have? How many abstract submissions did
we receive? (You can see that I also like questions!)
Almost every aspect of my responsibilities came down to
20 20 Safe and Sustainable
Water for Illinois
numbers, and so I began to count on them. Literally. They tell our
story of 2020 – how we went from over 120 events planned and a
projected revenue to quickly moving to a new virtual world where PARTICIPANTS
we were able to connect with MORE of our water and wastewater Total attendees in
community and continue the great training that you expect
our live events.
from us. We DECREASED our expenses to meet our forecasted
76% are ISAWWA
revenue. We ENGAGED with our members in a variety of ways.
And as I closed 2020, the numbers told us of our success. members.
A year where I would have probably felt or seen the success
through events and conversations with you, I instead let the
numbers tell us where we were. I’m happy to share some key LIVE EVENTS 125
data points with you:
38 In Person Events
• 2020’s education attendees increased by 17% with our added
webinars and virtual trainings.
31 Virtual Seminars
• In fact, webinar attendance jumped 55% in 2020 compared 56 Free Webinars
to 2019.
• We ended the year financially where the Board originally
projected, meaning we kept our ratio of income and
expenses on target.
$6,000 SCHOLARSHIPS
• We increased the number of ISAWWA members voting in our 5 scholarship winners
Board of Trustee election by utilizing a new system. received funds to further
• We conducted two surveys and three focus groups on their education and training.
COVID-19’s impact on utilities.
• Our social media presence is growing on Facebook, Twitter,
LinkedIn and Instagram (be sure to like and follow us!). We
increased our Facebook page likes by 12% in 2020.
VOLUNTEERS 300
ISAWWA has over 300
• We mailed out 296 appreciation boxes around the state to
volunteers active in our
our utility members, sharing with them key membership
committees and Board
information, cloth masks, and information from our sponsors.
As you can see, swift changes by the staff and Board of of Trustees.
Trustees worked to meet our members’ needs. Thank you for
staying with us and trusting us to deliver the education and
member benefits that you need.
2020 was a jumpstart to new initiatives and new delivery
methods and, for me, a reliance on the numbers to tell the story.
12 Splash WINTER 2021Register at www.isawwa.org
Sugar Grove, IL - 2,000,000
Splash WINTER 2021 13District 2D Trustee Report
Brent Studnicka
OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEMBERS
Section committees are working hard to plan something
for the traditional March time-frame, so keep your eyes open
for an opportunity to join your fellow members for
some WATERCON-like activities.
J ust a few words from your District 2D trustee. Section staff
and the Executive Director continue to do a fantastic job
looking out for the interests of the Section and keeping the
Board up to date. Despite the difficulties of a COVID-19 economy,
also want to investigate a new public perception/education
program called the Water Ambassador. This program is aimed
at educating public officials and the general public about the
water industry and is administered similar to the Tree City USA
the Section remains in good financial condition due to excellent program. Paul May has led an ad-hoc committee that has put
financial planning and responsibility of previous Board members together a great program and some interesting material that
and trustees. While the current Board has had to dip into the will be rolled out in 2021. If you want to know more about this
Section’s financial reserves, we look forward to replenishing program, feel free to call the Section office.
those reserves once things return to normal, so that future The Section’s education staff have been working hard to
Board members and trustees have the same opportunity to rely provide virtual learning opportunities for all Section members.
on reserves when times are tough. For a while they were even able to provide some in-person
There is one major change for 2021 that you may want opportunities, but the predicted resurgence of COVID-19
to mark on your calendar, and one new exciting opportunity cases in the fall put an end to those opportunities. Who knows
in 2021 that you may want to investigate. Due to COVID-19 what 2021 will bring, but hopefully we can get back to some
concerns, WATERCON has been delayed to August instead of the semblance of meeting one another in person and learning
usual dates in March. The WATERCON planning committee and together from some great presenters. Regardless of what
other Section committees are working hard to plan something happens, Section staff are working hard to provide a full lineup
for the traditional March time-frame, so keep your eyes open of quality education opportunities in 2021. One benefit of doing
for an opportunity to join your fellow members for some so many seminars virtually in 2020 was that they were recorded.
WATERCON-like activities on March 23. Hopefully you will be You can access the webinars through the ISAWWA website by
able to enjoy all of the traditional WATERCON activities, plus hovering over the Training link on the navigation ribbon on the
some new exciting activities in Springfield in August. You might top of the webpage and then clicking Recorded Virtual Seminars.
These recorded seminars are a great way to attend one of the
seminars you wanted to attend, but could not. I know of at least
one new training venue in District 2D that may provide some
high-quality in-person opportunities centrally located in the
District, once we are able to get back to in-person learning.
If you haven’t already thought about volunteering to help on
one of the Sections’ committees, now is the time. You can get
more information by checking out the articles in this issue of
Splash from each of the committee chairs, or check out the list of
Michael C. Robertson committees on the ISAWWA website by hovering over the Home
General Manager
link on the navigation ribbon at the top of the webpage and then
1829 Borman Circle Drive • St. Louis Missouri 63146 clicking on Committees. There are lots of great people already
tel. 314-991-0730 • fax 314-991-3527 volunteering, but more are always welcome (and needed). We
toll free 800-528-2887 • cell 314-703-5612 need new faces and ideas to keep progressing and to continue
mike@sidener.net
the Section’s reputation for excellence.
14 Splash WINTER 2021District 3 Trustee Report
Todd LaFountain
A RENEWED SENSE OF APPRECIATION
I
hope this report finds everyone be in person or virtual, make the most many Section activities. The only way to
safe and healthy during this of what the new year has to offer. I also get the maximum amount out of your
challenging time. It seems like encourage you to get involved in the membership is to be involved!
yesterday that I began my two-year
term as District 3 Trustee. ISAWWA
elections are upon us again and the
organization will soon be seeing Trotter and Associates, Inc.
some new faces in leadership
positions as well some old faces in Experienced Professionals - Better Solutions
new roles.
The world has very much changed
over the last two years and made
us all appreciate the professional,
personal, and social get-togethers
we all used to take for granted. As
a vaccine rolls out for COVID-19, I
truly hope that 2021 will bring us
all together again with a renewed
sense of appreciation at the many
in-person events ISAWWA has
historically offered.
As I am sure most of you are
aware, the annual WATERCON
conference has been moved to
August of 2021. Assuming that the
conference is allowed to proceed,
this move will allow attendees to see
a very different side of Springfield.
With the State Fair in town, there
will be many different entertainment
options and the city will offer a much
different atmosphere than what is
experienced in March. Attendees
will also get to witness and weigh-in
on a water-related myth associated
Our reputation is built on practical experience.
with the State Fair. The myth is that
mere mention of State Fair will bring Every engineer on our team started in the
with it an oppressive heat wave and field, and to ensure that our designs
increase in water demand that drops
the Lake Springfield elevation several work in the real world, our team
feet. Make sure to stop me to talk always has plenty of
about this folklore if we are fortunate
enough to get together in August.
I encourage you make it a priority Boots on the Ground
to take advantage of the many
training opportunities ISAWWA has to
offer in 2021. Whether those events
trotter-inc.com
Splash WINTER 2021 15PROVIDING
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WATER – WASTE WATER – STORMWATERTraining Opportunities
TRAINING
COURSE TRAINING NAME DATE HOURS TIME (Central) INSTRUCTOR LOCATION
Legionella and Water Management
Wednesday, Virtual –
Plans, and How They Are Affected 1 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Brian Burgess
March 3, 2021 Webinar
by Municipal Water
Monday,
Spring Regulatory Update 2.5 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Various Virtual
March 8, 2021
Tuesday,
Wastewater Refresher for Class 3/4 4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Tim Juskewicz Virtual
March 9, 2021
Lead & Copper – Water Treatment Thursday,
4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Darin Skutt Virtual
and Corrosion Control March 11, 2021
Tuesday,
Science of Sewer Jetting 4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Barry Howell Virtual
March 16, 2021
Thursday,
SCADA 101 4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Brent Studnicka Virtual
March 18, 2021
Tuesday,
ISAWWA-Palooza 2.5 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM Various Virtual
March 23, 2021
Thursday,
Water/Sewer Plans 101 4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Randy Patchett Virtual
April 1, 2021
Tuesday,
FREE – Setting Effective
April 13, 2021 &
Rates & Accessing Funding, 6 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Pat Gleason Virtual
Wednesday,
2-Day Workshop
April 14, 2021
Distribution System O&M –
Thursday, Aaron Gilson &
Hydrants, Valves, Water 4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Virtual
April 22, 2021 Carlos Covarrubias
Service Lines
Different Pipe Products or Wednesday, Virtual –
1 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Part 2 of State Revolving Fund May 5, 2021 Webinar
Breakpoint Chlorination…
Tuesday,
Do you Really have a 4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Bob Spon Virtual
May 11, 2021
Free Chlorine Residual?
Manhole Rehab Part 1 – Indicators, Wednesday, Virtual –
1 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Engineering, and Surveying May 12, 2021 Webinar
SCADA 202 – Thursday,
4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Brent Studnicka Virtual
PLCs, Controllers and I/O May 20, 2021
Pros & Cons of Trenchless Poly Wednesday, Virtual –
1 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Mike Giglio
Water Piping Installations June 2, 2021 Webinar
18 Splash WINTER 2021Training Opportunities
TRAINING
COURSE TRAINING NAME DATE HOURS TIME (Central) INSTRUCTOR LOCATION
Thursday, In Person –
Safety Summit 5.5 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM Various
June 3, 2021 Elgin
Manhole Rehab Part 2 – Products Wednesday, Virtual –
1 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
and Rehabilitation Techniques June 9, 2021 Webinar
SCADA 203 – Tuesday,
4 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Brent Studnicka Virtual
Operator Interfaces & Reporting June 22, 2021
Chris Callahan,
Manhole Rehab Part 3 – Lining to Wednesday, Culy & TBD,
1 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Virtual
Stop Degradation of the Manhole July 14, 2021 Madewell
Products
Water Quality Management
Wednesday,
in Private Buildings/Water 1 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Virtual
August 4, 2021
Quality Plans (WDC)
Ready to register?
Register early to save!
Go to Early bird pricing ends
www.isawwa.org
and click on 10 days prior to the event.
Events/Calendar.
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www.flowtechnics.comEducation Committee
David Vavrek
A NEW SEASON BEGINS
Come March, I welcome Brandon Thomas as our new
Committee Chair and Steve Dennison as our Vice Chair.
G
reetings from the Education Committee! I hope you all February 23, 2021. Don’t forget to check the Section’s website
had a safe and wonderful holiday season. We are now at www.isawwa.org and click on Training to find out what is
halfway through winter, looking forward to spring, and happening and taking place. This continues to be an excellent
looking forward to what 2021 will bring! resource for operators and other professional persons to
As the old saying goes, “for everything there is a season.” obtain needed CEUs.
We find ourselves in a new season of moving into spring and As always, THANK YOU! It has been a joy working with the
setting our sights on new things to come for the Section and the Education Committee! If you have any comments or questions
committee. I would like to take a moment and thank everyone about the Education Committee and/or education program,
who had confidence in me to be your Chair. It has certainly been a contact me at dvavrek@vopf.com or Vice Chair Brandon Thomas
wonderful experience for me to lead our committee. Come March, at b.thomas@trotter-inc.com.
I welcome Brandon Thomas as our new Committee Chair and
Steve Dennison as our Vice Chair. I plan to stay on the committee
doing what I can to help our new leadership be successful.
I want to thank John Dillon and Stacey Ramsey at the USALCO Salutes All Water and
Section. Without your help, the Section and the Education
Wastewater Plant Professionals
Committee could not do all that they do, from planning and
preparing events for WATERCON to planning the educational Many things in life are essential during these uncertain
opportunities for our Section. Your work is greatly appreciated times, with few as important as safe drinking water.
We would like to recognize all water and wastewater
– keep doing all that you do!
plant operators for their sacrifices and outstanding
I want to thank Annie Storey, our Executive Director. You performance behind the scenes each and every day.
certainly persevered through all the challenges 2020 had and led We at USALCO are honored to play a part in
our Section. Thank you for your hard work and dedication and maintaining water quality standards.
thank you for your words of encouragement and support during
those times I doubted myself.
However, the biggest thanks goes to the committee
members and all those who continue to volunteer their time. To
the members who faithfully attend committee monthly meetings
and are the first to step up and volunteer your time, please know
that what you do is never forgotten or taken for granted. It’s YOU
who truly make everything happen for our committee and our
Section members!
As we continue in 2021, we look forward to our new officers
and committee leadership in March. Along with new leadership,
WATERCON is taking place August 9–12, 2021. Be sure to watch
for upcoming information on the events that are to take place. To learn more about USALCO’s
We Reimagine the Future – so be sure to register and attend. extensive line of coagulants and
associated technical services,
Forthcoming events for 2021 include a new Public
please visit our website at
Perception campaign. If you are a municipality, make sure to usalco.com or call (410) 918-2230.
take advantage of this campaign. Watch for more to come!
Additionally, there will be a virtual Meter Symposium on
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24 Splash WINTER 2021Technology Committee
Jeremy Henning
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION AT THE FOREFRONT
A
nother year come and gone,
and this one rockier than most.
COVID-19 has impacted nearly
every aspect of our daily behaviors and,
Remember, just because it’s called
for many, in long-lasting damaging ways. the Technology Committee doesn’t mean
And yet, despite the extreme adversity
we have all faced, society has persevered you have to be tech-savvy!
and found a way to continue. The water
industry is no exception, and the ISAWWA
Technology Committee has done its best
to do the same. In fact, this Splash article you’ve seen some of them by now and we have started for the Section. Our team
marks the first Committee Chair update are enjoying these simple and easy to is energized about providing additional
since the Technology Committee was re- consume technical “know-how” emails. interactive panel-type discussions for
created! So, I’m going to walk you through We hope to continue providing these tech the membership, as this unique format
a brief (very brief, I promise) history of insights in 2021 and are always looking can present different perspectives on a
the newly formed Technology Committee for ideas on what we can discuss. topic in a short amount of time. We are
and what we are working on for 2021. Throughout the rest of 2019 and also continuing our efforts to provide a
The journey began in December into early 2020, the committee was able diverse selection of technology-related
of 2018 when I first emailed Brent to sponsor some great seminars and webinars and seminars to the Section
Studnicka and Doug Strempek asking webinars. Another of the committee’s to strengthen your tech knowledge.
for background on the old tech-related goals was to diversify the technology- The Technology Committee has also
committee and their interest in bringing related education opportunities for the committed to sponsoring the Spring/
that back to life in some form or fashion. Section and reach out to organizations Summer 2021 issue of Splash magazine,
Both were members of the T-CON from other states that could provide a so keep an eye out for some terrific
committee, and they had a wealth of fresh perspective to our membership. tech-related articles coming soon.
insightful feedback about their previous With topics ranging from Smart Water In closing, a big thank you to all of the
efforts. I know I thoroughly enjoyed the to cybersecurity and America’s Water Technology Committee team members
T-CON conference when it was around, Infrastructure Act (AWIA) training to who continue working hard to provide
as I know many of you did as well, and cyber Insurance, we hope you’ve enjoyed a technology-minded experience for
I was excited to have their help moving the diverse training we’ve tried to provide the Section members. Their enthusiasm
forward. With new thoughts and goals and will continue to provide in 2021. for tech topics on our monthly calls
on how to provide tech knowledge to Throughout this journey, the is contagious and shines through in
the Section, and with the blessing of the committee has been fortunate enough the webinars and other content they
Education Committee, we decided to to recruit some dedicated new team provide. And we’re always looking for
start moving ahead with a newly formed members along the way who have all more members. If any of this sounds
Technology sub-committee. done a great job of providing their interesting to you, come see what
Fast forward to April of 2019, and the insights and assistance. Because of the it’s all about. You can email me, Nick,
committee had its kickoff meeting with growth of our team and our continued or Pat Gleason for information on
a great group of people on the call with efforts, the committee requested to be our next meeting ( Jeremy Henning:
some terrific ideas brought to life. One recognized as a stand-alone committee. jhenning@nsmjawa.com; Nick Paradiso:
idea to come from that meeting was a The Board approved the request at the nparadiso@goconcentric.com; Pat Gleason:
desire to keep technology at the forefront July Board member meeting. Soon after, pgleason@isawwa.org). Remember,
of everyone’s mind. With that idea and a Nick Paradiso volunteered and filled the just because it’s called the Technology
focus on providing recurring technology role of vice-chair for the committee. Committee doesn’t mean you have to
education, the committee’s first-ever Looking now at 2021, after my not- be tech-savvy! We look forward to a
Tech-Tip email was sent out to the so-brief recap of the committee’s recent productive 2021 where we can hopefully
membership in August of 2019. Hopefully, history, we are excited to continue what start to see everyone in person again.
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deb@watertowercleaners.comDiversity and Inclusion
By Jamie Rott and Robyn Doescher
Diversity and Inclusion Committee
The year 2020 has been full of challenges, changes, and will likely go down in history for so many reasons! One of the more
exciting changes that is coming to ISAWWA is the Diversity and Inclusion initiative! Over the past year the Diversity and Inclusion
Committee and the Board have been hard at work reviewing the Section’s current policy and brainstorming about what diversity
and inclusion mean to the Section, what should it look like, and what we need to implement to develop and encourage a more
diverse and inclusive Section.
While navigating this process, the questions that kept coming up were, “What does diversity and inclusion really mean?” and “How
are we going to become more diverse and inclusive?” In response to those questions, the committee and Board have developed a
vision of what this means for ISAWWA; we are excited to announce what that vision is and how we propose to accomplish it.
Vision: Goals:
Bring awareness of the need • Achieve a membership that is reflective and inclusive of the diversity within our state.
for diversity and inclusiveness • Employ practices that encourage member inclusion.
to the industry and cultivate an • Develop, train, and maintain an environment of diversity and inclusion within
environment in which members the industry.
are represented and engaged. • Recognize and leverage the full value that diversity of people and ideas can bring
to our organization.
The journey has just begun and we will need many volunteers to help achieve a more diverse and inclusive Section and industry. We
recognize that we cannot solve this problem alone, but we can be an example to others. We welcome your thoughts on how we can
further commit to diversity and inclusion in our organization and the communities we work with and for. Please watch your emails
to see how you can be a part of this process as we move our Section forward. If you have any recommendations or would like to
volunteer, please email annie@isawwa.org.
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Splash WINTER 2021 27Gaining Traction
on Diversity & Inclusion
By Dawn Walker, Trustee At Large
My decision to run for ISAWWA Trustee organizer, mentor and mentee, but I shaping ISAWWA to be more inclusive and
was one of the best professional still longed to see more diversity in the diverse, take a leadership position. Don’t
decisions I’ve made in my career. Being water resources field. I decided to run for take a back seat; jump in the leadership
elected spoke volumes to my personal trustee to fuel my passion for water and seat and work hard with ISAWWA’s Board
love for water resources and to the to seek opportunities to work with the to weave diversity and inclusion into
mission of ISAWWA. On a personal note, Board to lead ISAWWA to explore more policies and training. My experience
my strong desire to represent women of opportunities to bring diversity to the with the Board has been positive and
color on the Board came full circle. Section. I have not been disappointed. I would encourage anyone passionate
I am an African American woman and, During my term, I’ve worked closely about diversity and inclusion, and women
for the better part of my career, I’ve have with the Board and challenged policies that of color, to join the ISAWWA Board
longed to see a more diverse mix of water fail to align with diversity and inclusion. or another leadership position. You
professionals including more men and ISAWWA is gaining traction on diversity can’t take a back seat, you can’t simply
women of color in the field that I love. I’ve and inclusion and recently updated some complain that you wished there was more
worn many hats as a water professional of its policies to be more inclusive. This is diversity in the water resources field –
and with ISAWWA including volunteer, just the beginning. There is more work to you have to do something. Take charge!
teacher, manager, recruiter, student, do. If you are a professional interested in I have no regrets.
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Splash WINTER 2021 31My Introduction
to the Water Industry
By Dean Swingler, District 4 Trustee
We need to be proactive in recruiting the next generation, that
way, veteran operators can help train and prepare new employees.
Water is essential to everyday life. Employees in the water sector are needed to
deliver safe, potable water to homes and businesses. However, many are uneasy
about the future. An estimated 30% of today’s qualified water and wastewater
operators will retire in the next 10 years. Their knowledge is invaluable. I strongly
urge all water utilities to develop a succession plan. We need to be proactive in
recruiting the next generation, that way, veteran operators can help train and
prepare new employees. Below, I am going to share how I became involved in
the water sector. Like many others, I did not always work in water. My story can
be used as an example regarding the search for the next generation of water
operators and service technician, i.e., we should keep an open mind and search
across a variety of industries and backgrounds.
My path to the water industry was not a straight line. In fact, I somewhat
stumbled into it. My background was plumbing, heating, and electric, which I
worked in for six years. I enjoyed the work I was doing, especially the electrical
portion, but I grew tired of tight crawlspaces and hot attics. I had a variety of jobs
before I eventually began working in the maintenance department at a printing
company. I was kept busy working on multitudes of different equipment. I enjoyed
the challenge, but my position required a lot of overtime, which often included
nights and weekends. The amount of work did not bother me, but at the time I was
on third shift and had a young family. I did not want to miss these precious years
and knew it might be a few years before an opening on a different shift
would be available. The desire to always be present for family activities
prompted my search for a new job.
Many will remember the challenges of searching for
a job the 1990s. You could not advertise your skills
or interest in a new position on platforms like
LinkedIn or Facebook. You could not easily search
for jobs based on factors like industry, tasks,
pay, location, etc., on applications like Indeed
or Google. Instead, I read help wanted ads in
the local newspaper every day. Eventually,
I saw an advertisement that interested
me. It stated that a local water company
was looking for someone with electrical
and plumbing experience. Originally, I was
searching for something that focused on
electrical maintenance, not water, but I fit that
description and applied.
32 Splash WINTER 2021My interview was my introduction meant I was able to see my family and not water to the public is one of the most
to the water industry. I learned that miss out on activities with them. noble careers one can have. Water
EJ Water Cooperative was a small but Working at EJ Water has been very is our most precious resource and
growing water company that focused rewarding. The company has grown a should be available to everyone.
on delivering water to rural areas. At the lot during my tenure, and I have been Everyone close to retirement should
time, EJ Water had a half-million-gallon involved in many exciting projects. Since be very proud of the service they
water treatment plant, three wells, and starting, we have built two new water have provided to their communities.
500 miles of water main that served treatment plants, expanded to more If you are close to retirement, please
1,100 connections. The position’s main areas, increased connections, and have share your knowledge and expertise
responsibilities included taking daily begun offering a variety of services to with the younger operators in your
water samples at the treatment plant, other water utility systems. community and start recruiting for
installing water meters, reading water I honestly believe that being involved the next generation of water and
meters, adjusting/swapping regulators, in providing clean, safe, and affordable wastewater professionals.
fixing leaks, and locating water mains.
I was also excited to learn about the
electrical equipment that was necessary
to keep the system running smoothly.
The SCADA and telemetry systems would
require regular maintenance, which
would be a new challenge for me.
I was offered a part-time position that
had potential to become full time. I would
not be able to support my family with
part-time employment, but I unable to
turn down the offer. I was too intrigued
by the water treatment and operation
processes. I believed this was the career
and company I had been looking for.
Though my wife thought I was crazy,
I decided to work both jobs for a trial
period. This meant I worked third shift
at the printing company (11:00 PM –
7:00 AM) and then at EJ Water from
8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. I would work all
night and then head to EJ. My typical
day consisted of filling up chemical and
day tanks at the water treatment plant;
taking daily samples; checking to make
sure the system was operating properly;
and completing work orders from the
office. I was proud of the work I was
doing. Some tasks might not have been
enjoyable and working two jobs was
exhausting, but providing clean, safe
water to people made me happy.
After six months with this schedule, I
was reevaluating my situation. Luckily, EJ
realized they needed a full-time employee
at the same moment, and I was offered
the position. It was another difficult
choice to make because the pay was less
than the maintenance position at the
printing company. Ultimately, I chose EJ
Water and have been working here since
January 18, 1998. I can confidently say
that it has been one of the best decisions
I have made in my life. I was excited and
proud of the work I was doing, and it also
Splash WINTER 2021 33Congratulations to Our Scholarship Winners!
One AWWA Operator Scholarship Safe Water Scholarship
Mark Baines is currently Brianna Huber is the
the Maintenance Founder/Executive Director of
Supervisor at the Village Her2O™, as well as the Interim
of Hopkins Park and Director of Water Filtration
the Fire Chief for the for the City of East Moline.
Pembroke Fire Protection Brianna is pursuing a Master
District. Mark’s goal is of Business Administration
to become a water and with an emphasis in Business
wastewater operator so Analytics. Brianna believes
that he can achieve higher that analytics is the future
quality of water for his of water. Brianna, we look
community. Mark, we look forward to your continued
forward to you achieving professional growth and focus
(photo not available)
your goals! on water!
ISAWWA’s scholarship program seeks to support our members and students in water and
wastewater. Our next scholarship deadline is coming up June 30. Scholarship recipients can
use the funds to further their academic coursework and water and wastewater training.
Learn more at www.isawwa.org.
Splash WINTER 2021 35Registration Now Open!
Experience ACE Your
Way in 2021
Join us in person or online
Wherever you are in the world, you can now register to attend
AWWA’s Annual Conference & Exposition (ACE) in person in
San Diego OR online from your home or office. However you
choose to participate, you’ll find a forum for you and your Co-hosted by the
California-Nevada AWWA Section
colleagues to responsibly gather for the premier education,
timely insight, and networking you need to solve the water
sector’s immediate and future challenges together.
June 13–16 | San Diego, CA
Learn more at awwa.org/ace
#AWWAACE
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