3 minute read
IDA AFFILIATE CORNER
By Kim Shugar, AMTA’s Executive Director
Even with the challenges of COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021, the American Membrane Technology Association (AMTA) and its affiliates have continued to find ways to advance the application of membrane filtration and desalting processes through education, networking and advocacy to meet the ever-increasing need for safe, affordable and reliable water supplies. Like many organizations, AMTA and its affiliates moved knowledge transfer online during the pandemic. While it does not replace important in-person networking, it has provided an opportunity for members and non-members to benefit from the expertise of the association’s members. On-line education has been successful, so AMTA intends to continue a virtual presence even when in-person events resume.
AMTA, in conjunction with the American Water Works Association (AWWA) just completed a Membrane Master Class webinar series, a four-part program that addressed the current trends and best practices in the development and implementation of membrane technologies. If you were unable to listen in, you can still register for on-demand access. This year, AMTA will be holding two other webinar series that will focus on ceramic membranes and membrane cleaning. The association is currently developing two additional virtual opportunities that are intended to create engagement opportunities that will conversations with membrane experts. The launch of the two new programs will be announced soon. Additionally, AMTA affiliates have continued to provide Membrane Operator Classes through webinars that provide operators training on the use, design and maintenance of membrane systems.
With examples of safe in-person events occurring, AMTA and AWWA are moving forward with the 2021 Membrane Technology Conference and Exposition (MTC) as an in-person event that will be
held in West Palm Beach, FL, July 19 - 22. The premier showcase for membrane technology in North America will explore the latest developments in membrane filtration, reuse, desalting, RO/NF/MF/UF and MBR for water treatment. I encourage you to join us in sunny south Florida.
Later in 2021, AMTA will be holding three regional in-person technology transfer workshops hosted with our affiliates. AMTA continues furthering the association’s other programs. AMTA continues to expand a digital library that houses copies of papers and PowerPoint presentations presented at (or prepared for) MTC. AMTA continues to coordinate the development of (and updates) technology fact sheets. AMTA continues to support innovation and research through the Student Fellowship Program. Three fellowship opportunities are available each year. Two fellowships are available because of support from its partners, the National Water Research Institute and the United States Bureau of Reclamation. AMTA continues to partner with organizations to help eliminate regulatory barriers for membranes and identify opportunities to educate policymakers on the advancement of membranes.
For information on upcoming events, visit www.amtaorg.com. AMTA looks forward to our continued partnership with IDA. Please let AMTA know you we can support you!
About the Author
Ms. Kim Shugar is AMTA’s Executive Director. She is based in Tallahassee, Florida, and has been involved in the water sector for more than 25 years. Kim has more than 15 years of senior executive experience in water and environmental policy, natural resource management, program administration and organizational management. She has served in senior level positions within Florida state and regional agencies and for the City of Longmont, Colorado. Most recently, Kim served as deputy director for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and Policy Chief for the Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee in the Florida House of Representatives. Kim has an MS in Environmental Engineering Sciences from the University of Florida and a BS in Biology from Mercer University. When not working, Kim enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, including running, hiking, walking her dogs, biking, and being on the water.
