Greg Taylor to Lead FSAWWA in 2022 -2023

procedures manual, then-President Richard Stenberg reported at the June 14, 1997, board of directors meeting that the Education Committee would meet within three weeks to address standardization, instructor credentials, course pricing, venue specifications, and frequency and decision-making authority for the voluntary certification programs.

It was also reported at that meeting that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) would be in contact with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (BPR) in Tallahassee to discuss the plant operator certification program transfer. A representative from FDEP reported that the organization would be working on an agreement to authorize BPR to manage the August 1997 certification exams, and that five positions from BPR would be transferred to FDEP, along with program funds. So, a structure for voluntary certification of collection system operators has been in place for awhile, and may not have been one of the first voluntary certification programs. That certification included water distribution systems, stormwater management, utility customer relations, reclaimed water distribution, and, most recently, utilities maintenance. This structure could have been utilized to help advance employees, and increase their knowledge and pay incentives for doing so.

The fact that the distribution system and collection system operators were deemed less important and neglected across the United States for years (along with poor asset management) and, in general, had even worse pay scales for these boots-on-the-ground operators who are paid less than drinking water and wastewater plant operators, is still an ongoing sin. They are essential personnel, and yet they never get mentioned during pandemics or disasters.

Instead of promoting mandatory certification for collection system operators (which would be costly to cities) and establishing an advancement program that should provide decision-making employees to operate and manage collection systems, it’s just easier to issue consent orders and fines for sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). A hot-stove approach always works better, right? A balanced budget and keeping ratepayers happy are always best, right?

A very intelligent operator I work with informed me that there will be a shortage of canned tuna—you should stock up on it now if you can. According to another, climate change is causing the shortage of water—will that change the slogan “no operators, no water” to “no water, no operators”?

I promise to reflect on my attitude about a so-called operator shortage and how long it takes to make changes before I write further columns.

Keep that water clean and work safe! S

On Nov. 30, 2022, Greg Taylor became the 97th chair of the Florida Section American Water Works Association (FSAWWA) at the section’s Annual Fall Conference. He succeeds Emilie Moore.

Greg is the Florida water group leader and a senior project manager with WrightPierce, a multidisciplinary engineering firm with offices throughout Florida and the Northeast. Based in the firm’s Maitland office, Greg is a licensed professional engineer in Florida and Virginia, and he is a 2002 graduate of Clemson University (go, Tigers!) with a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering.

Raised in St. Petersburg, Greg’s postcollege career began in the water industry working for the Orlando Utilities Commission. He learned how utilities provide high-quality service before moving into engineering consulting, where he was able to gain more experience in water supply, treatment, and distribution, as well as in hydraulic modeling, master planning, and wastewater collection systems.

Greg’s engagement with FSAWWA began in 2002 after encouragement from his supervisor and fellow FSAWWA enthusiast, Debbie Bradshaw. After working registration and logistics at events, he went on to become Region III treasurer, vice chair, and chair. At the section level, Greg has served as the Public Affairs Council vice chair and chair, as well as section trustee, secretary, vice chair, and chair-elect. He has worked as a technical session moderator at the FSAWWA Fall Conference on numerous occasions and has worked as a moderator, presenter, abstract reviewer, and anything else needed for success at the Florida Water Resources Conference. You have probably heard him, as he is not quiet, and has been dubbed the “Voice of FSAWWA.”

One key thing that has shaped his work with FSAWWA (and other professional organizations) is servant leadership. His motto is “You shouldn’t ask someone to do something you wouldn’t or haven’t done yourself.” In his eyes, there is no job too small, and no event is successful without the hard work of all its volunteers. He is an advocate for asking how you can be of service to others.

When asked about leading FSAWWA in 2022 and 2023, Greg added, “I am very excited and humbled to be elected as the FSAWWA chair and to continue the legacy begun nearly a century ago. As we venture into the social media age, we have new means to continue educating people about the importance of water and to create a greater awareness of the world’s most important resource—water. My vision for the section this year is to expand membership, provide additional learning opportunities from grade school though experienced professional, and enhance the tools for showing the value of water for our members.”

Greg is eager to serve the industry and the community and to work with section leaders, staff, members, and other water professionals, many of whom he has established relationships with. In his own words, “During the years, I have met many gifted and dedicated individuals through FSAWWA. I have met some of my close friends and even the best man at my wedding (cheers, brother!)”

Greg would like to thank his wife, Amber, who has supported his involvement with the water industry and participation in events that raise money for philanthropic endeavors, scholarships, and networking, while raising awareness about the importance of water in our lives. S