Texas H2O Post TW '24

Sh2o

Thanks for attending Texas WaterTM 2024!

If you joined us for Texas WaterTM 2024 in Fort Worth – thank you! Texas WaterTM 2024 was truly a record-breaking year! We hope you enjoyed the conference and had a chance to attend some of the 218 informative technical presentations, visit the 720 booths in the jam-packed exhibit hall, scope out the competitions and network with the more than 7,500 people who attended.

We hope to see you next year at Texas WaterTM 2025 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, March 18-21, 2025!

Congrats to our Texas WaterTM 2024 Competition Winners!

Best Tasting Drinking Water: 1st Place: City of Dallas Bachman Water Treatment Plant | 2nd Place: City of Denton Lake Ray Roberts Water Treatment Plant | 3rd Place: San Jacinto River Authority GRP Division

Hydrant Hysteria: City of Round Rock: Shane Carroll (Coach), Shane Carroll and Justin Peterson (Men’s Team) - Time of 1:49.59

City of Denton: Daniel Parish (Coach), Abbigayle Dyke and Ashley McGee (Women’s Team) - Time of 2:03.90

Meter Challenge: 1st Place: Leamon Anderson, San Antonio River Authority | 2nd Place: Dennis Laskowski, San Antonio Water System

Pipe Tapping: San Antonio Water System: Alamo Drillerz with a time of 1:45.88: Lupe Paredes (Coach), Andrew Bratton, Eugene Mora and Eric Lucio (Men’s Team)

Dallas Water: Big D Lady Tappers with a time of 2:18.50: Seanna Zuniga (Coach), Jessica Davila, Jessica Donovan and Ana-Alicia Zuniga (Women’s Team)

Top Ops: City of Houston: Héctor Montañez, Daryl Pope and Julius Guidry

| letter from the texas section chair |

Texas Section

American Water Works Association P.O. Box 80150 Austin, Texas 78708 www.tawwa.org

Karen Menard, Chair 817-493-5195

Marisa Vergara, Chair-Elect 210-494-8004

Mary Gugliuzza, Vice-Chair 817-392-8253

Amy Middleton, Imm. Past Chair 210-510-0888

Mike Howe

Executive Director/Secretary-Treasurer 512-238-9292 Fax: 512-238-0496 mikehowe@tawwa.org

This publication is distributed bi-monthly to the more than 4,500 members and friends of the Texas Section – American Water Works Association.

Contributing writers can contact the editor: Elizabeth Rose GCP Association Services, LLC PO Box 676 Pflugerville, TX 78691 512-251-8101 Fax: 512-251-8152 TXh20@tawwa.org

The publication name, TexasH2O: © 1996-2024 Texas Section – American Water Works Association, Inc.

© 2024 Texas Section – American Water Works Association, Inc.

FOLLOW TAWWA ON FACEBOOK AND X!

Texas AWWA @txawwa

Success! TAWWA is Making Waves!

BY KAREN MENARD texas section chair

Howdy! My name is Karen Menard, and I’m thrilled to be your new Section Chair!

But first, I want to thank Amy Middleton for her leadership this past year. She was the perfect person to lead our Executive Committee as we searched for and hired our new Executive Director, Daniel Nix. I’m looking forward to the coming year and working closely with Daniel and the Board as we continue to serve and grow our membership.

KAREN MENARD 817-493-5195 menardke@trinityra.org

Post Conference Re-Cap Texas WaterTM 2024 was a fantastic, recordbreaking event and you’ll read lots more about it in this issue. I want to sincerely thank the Planning Committee, including the Fort Worth volunteers, who did a tremendous job of putting on an excellent conference. I also want to congratulate all of our amazing competition and award winners. I have seen our wonderful technical sessions just keep getting better every year, and our exhibitors are next level. A special shout-out to Raquel Roulin and Helen Dulac who represented the Education Division and performed their own award-worthy skit (yes, you read that right!) during the Value of Water session!

DC Fly-In – April 9th and 10th

While many of us were enjoying Texas Water '24, a small but mighty task force comprised of Section volunteers was deployed to our nation’s capital for the 2024 DC Fly-In. Big thank-you’s to Charlie Maddox (Lone Star Leader), Dan Crowley (Water Utility Council Chair), Bill Smith (Lone Star Leader), and Doug Short (Resiliency & Cyber Security Committee Chair) for representing the Texas Section during meetings with Congressional members and their staff. Topics included supporting the "polluter pays" principle for PFAS cleanup, promoting water affordability in local communities, investing in the nation’s water infrastructure, and building cybersecurity resilience in the water sector.

Way Back, and the Way Forward

BY MIKE HOWE tawwa executive director

Over the last few days, I was looking for inspiration to write this article. The reasons will become evident as you read on.

This is our post conference issue and it’s a great way to review all the great experiences and excitement of the Largest Regional Water Conference in the U.S.©

And, this is my last article in this space for TEXASh2o and the Texas Section AWWA. As you all know, I am retiring at the end of June. More on that in a moment.

As you read through this issue you will be impressed with the exciting list of awardees and various articles about the conference. I’m pleased to say—correct that, SHOUT from the top of the nearest water tank—once again, the Texas Water™ Conference broke all records. If you were there, and many of you were, registration counts were up 25% overall and at any given time there were nearly 7,500 badged attendees and exhibitors at the event. That’s a lot! More than ever!

It was a great conference, and I am so proud of the volunteer committee in Fort Worth who successfully planned the conference and were on site to make sure it all worked. I am always excited to enjoy the success of our volunteers who plan and execute the conference. They are so dedicated and proud of the event, and rightfully so.

In some situations, it was clear we were trying to do our best to manage the increased crowds, and not always perfectly. That is on me and our partner staff. Even though we knew the numbers were up, we just didn’t expect the large increase as we hit "day of show." I do appreciate everyone’s understanding and as I jokingly said to one group, "surprise success does have its downsides".

But, after reading the results from our postconference survey, the responses are all very positive with a few "suggestions" of what we need to do better.

Just so you know, we do pay attention to these comments, and we do strive to do better.

MIKE HOWE 512-238-9292

In the last issue of this newsletter, I provided a very brief history of the Texas Water™ Conference, noting that I have been involved in the planning of every conference since 1996. You can visit that article here: https://www.tawwa.org/page/texash2o. It’s a quick trip in the "Way Back Machine".

And, as I poured a drink of "cool clear water" and sat down to write this article, I poked around in some of the older issues we have archived online. I was trying to get a sense of how I managed to write roughly 185 articles over 27 years. It was a nostalgic and, in some ways, funny trip down memory lane.

I came across my article that referenced my time at UT Austin Business School and how certain teachings impacted my decision-making process as we switched to a virtual conference in 2020: https://issuu.com/ texash2o/docs/h2o_summer_2020_b1185a4874af48

I also reread the article I wrote in 2014 about the "Yuck Factor" in water reuse that referenced the work of Daniel Nix in Wichita Falls as they successfully went "all the way" to ensure their customers had any water to drink. Who would have guessed that ten years later you would now hear from Mr. Nix on a regular basis! https://issuu.com/texash2o/docs/h2o_precon_2014 (See page 7 - Daniel is our Way Forward!)

After a few more rereads of articles I noted something I have mentioned to others. Because I am

mikehowe@tawwa.org CONTINUED PAGE 36 | executive director report

Dreams

BY DANIEL NIX

tawwa incoming executive director

All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them. — Walt Disney

Ihave always believed in the power of dreams. No, not the kind that subconsciously show up in the middle of the night to either perplex you or scare the living tar out of you, but rather the dreams that we consciously make for ourselves to drive us to reach for something that doesn’t currently exist. Dreams are the fuel that ignites our imaginations. A catalyst that propels us towards the possibilities (or probabilities) of the future. Without dreams, the world would lack purpose, innovation, creativity, motivation and ultimately, potential.

I never dreamed that 34 years ago when I joined AWWA I would encounter the multitude of talented, motivated and diverse group of people that I now have the privilege to call my friends. Over the last three decades I have worked with many groups and individuals within TAWWA that had dreams and aspirations to help their fellow water professionals across the State towards a better water sector. The passion that they all had for their "dreams" was magnetic and contagious, drawing you towards their vision and infecting you with their energy. Needless to say, I have seen the brilliance of TAWWA members— volunteers—create programs and projects that are truly outstanding and bring value to what TAWWA is trying to accomplish.

I like to think of TAWWA as "where dreams go to become reality".

Back in 2000, coming out of the drought of the '90s, the State of Texas wanted a one size fits all Water Conservation campaign. Something similar to the extremely effective "Don’t Mess with Texas" litter campaign that we all know and love. The panel of experts that were assembled found that due to the diverse meteorological and water use patterns that exist in Texas, a one size fits all conservation campaign DANIEL

danielnix.wf@gmail.com

to get the word out to all Texans was not possible. It took some time—13 years— but TAWWA developed an eye-catching Specialty License Plate that promotes water conservation with the simple slogan, "Save Water, Texas!" Now, if you have that Specialty License Plate on your vehicle, you are promoting water conservation to anyone, anywhere at any time they are behind you in traffic. A dream come true.

Today, TAWWA is embarking on a long sought after and needed program to train high school students in water works operations. SETH. This program is the culmination of numerous agencies and associations in Texas (TAWWA, TCEQ, TEEX, TEA and TDA) contributing their part to the overall dream of finally having a high school career program for water. The Diversity and Inclusion commercial that was developed in conjunction with SETH and used in the curriculum says it all to the next generation of professionals that will be entering the water sector: "Come realize your dream with our team and see what happens next…"

The future is unknown, but we can help guide the outcome with your dreams. A recent AWWA initiative was created to do just that. Shape a long-term vision of the future of water that will chart a course for a successful and sustainable water sector. TAWWA has embraced this concept and will be mirroring the Water 2050 activities that are going on at a national level. We will be seeking out the subject matter experts across

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Drew Molly, Jack Schulze Honored with Fuller Award

One of the most prestigious awards in the water profession is the George Warren Fuller Award for distinguished service to the water supply field in "commemoration of the sound engineering skill, the brilliant diplomatic talent and the constructive leadership, which characterized the life of George Warren Fuller."

Because of our membership growth, TAWWA has two Directors on the AWWA Board. With that achievement, we also can award two Fuller awards each year if we have qualified candidates.

This year we are honored to present the George Warren Fuller Award to both Drew Molly and

Drew Molly is announced as a George Warren Fuller Award winner at Texas WaterTM 2024. The award recipients are selected by previous award winners and kept a secret until the Awards Luncheon.

Mike Howe Award for Outstanding Service

At Texas WaterTM 2024, the Texas AWWA Executive Committee surprised outgoing Executive Director Mike Howe with the newly created Mike Howe Award for Outstanding Service to TAWWA. Howe is retiring at the end of June 2024.

The TAWWA Executive Committee worked secretly to approve this new award as a way to honor and thank Howe for his years of service to the association and for having such a lasting and profound impact on the Texas Section. They surprised Howe with the award at the Texas WaterTM conference in Fort Worth.

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Desmond Lawler Honored with Water Industry Hall of Fame

The AWWA Water Industry Hall of Fame is one of the most significant awards in the water community and perpetuates the memory of those living and deceased who have made the most significant contributions to the field of public water supply.

This year, AWWA honored Dr. Desmond "Des" Lawler for his enormous influence and direct beneficial impact upon the water supply profession through significant and everlasting contributions of industry-changing research, shared expertise, prolific publications and his lifelong passion for mentoring future water industry leaders.

From 1980 to 2021, Dr. Lawler served as faculty at the University of Texas-Austin Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering in the Environmental and Water Resources Engineering (EWRE) area. He is now the Nasser I. Al-Rashid Chair Emeritus in Civil Engineering and a UT Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus.

Dr. Lawler’s research accomplishments have impacted the design, operation, and fundamental understanding of water treatment processes. For these efforts, Dr. Lawler received the A.P. Black Award (1999) and the John Leal Award (2019) from the American Water Works Association. He also received the Water Quality Person of the Year Award in 2010 from the American Membrane Technology Association and Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors (AEESP) Outstanding Publication award for "a landmark paper that has withstood the test of time and significantly influenced the practice of environmental engineering." AEESP honored Dr. Lawler with the Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Engineering Education Award in 2015 in recognition of his widely adopted textbook Water Quality Engineering: Physical-Chemical Treatment Processes (Benjamin and Lawler, 2013).

Dr. Lawler’s dedication to research and teaching

throughout his career at UT-Austin is reflected in his own accomplishments and those of the over 130 graduate level students whom he mentored. His goal of fostering strong relationships among students, faculty and alumni led to the growth of a tight-knit community in EWRE culture. UT-Austin recognized Dr. Lawler’s contributions to teaching by electing him to the Academy of Distinguished Teachers in 1997.

Upon his retirement from UT-Austin, an endowment fund (The Lawler Excellence Fund) was created to perpetuate the synergy of high-quality academic work and strong community culture by providing funds for an annual prominent researcher lecture series ("Lawler Lecture"). The annual video presentations are archived on the Texas AWWA website: https://www. tawwa.org/page/LawlerLectureSeries.

Dr. Lawler’s impact on Texas’ water industry to solve real world problems during times of need and emergency should not be understated. For over 40 years, he regularly engaged with Austin Water and other Texas utilities to provided expertise, often in the form of ad hoc advice, as well as contracts for student research in both water and wastewater.

Dr. Desmond "Des" Lawler is recognized with the Water Industry Hall of Fame award by AWWA's Kate Nutting at Texas WaterTM 2024.

Jason Gehrig Receives Doc Ballard Award

Jason Gehrig was recognized with the W. T. "Doc" Ballard Award during Texas WaterTM 2024 in Fort Worth.

Gehrig began his water journey working summers in a small North Texas water utility during high school. This led him to attend Texas A&M to complete a civil engineering degree and launch his professional career.

He is committed to applying his skills to improving water systems worldwide and has traveled to many parts of the world giving his time and effort to ensure clean drinking water to remote areas where it is needed most.

When he returned from his multi-year efforts to improve water systems in South America, he continued to support the work of other water engineers as they carried on the dedicated work to improve access to clean water.

CONTINUED PAGE 33 | ballard award

AWWA representative Kate Nutting presents Jason Gehrig with the W.T. "Doc" Ballard Award at Texas WaterTM 2024.

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Nabeel Khan Receives Maverick Award

Nabeel Khan was honored with the Young Professionals Maverick Award at Texas WaterTM 2024 in Fort Worth.

The Maverick Award recognizes a young professional in the Texas Section who exemplifies qualities in volunteerism, community involvement, leadership and outstanding service in the science of water supply, treatment, operations and water quality.

Khan joined AWWA in 2019 and has greatly impacted young professionals and pursued their advancement ever since.

these seminars were non-existent, and last year approximately 250 professionals attended.

Khan is highly respected by those he works with in AWWA and by his co-workers. He was recently hired by one of his clients (San Jacinto River Authority) in their Technical Services Division. Khan has demonstrated strong initiative, leadership, social and technical skills in various roles in AWWA and in the water industry. Visit www.tawwa.org

Nabeel Khan is presented with the Maverick Award at Texas WaterTM 2024 by AWWA representative Kate

Members Receive Longevity Awards

At Texas WaterTM 2024, the Texas Section honored water professionals for longtime membership in AWWA and service to the industry.

SILVER WATER DROP AWARDS Recognizing members who have achieved 25 years of service to the water community and AWWA: Robert Ashcraft, Chad Bartuff, Edward Campbell, Theodore Chan, Eric Dawson, Pierre Dreher, Steven Fonville, Michele Foss, W. Craig Gantt, Mark Graves, Scott Halty, Byron Hardin, Damien Hererra, Octavio Holguin, Sam Irrinki, Rick Kasberg, Steve Kilcrease, Janelle Klein, Scott Kriston, Nancy Lerner, Priya Lucchesi, David Malish, Wayne Massey, Lawrence McCarthy, Jennifer Nations, Mark Pacheco, Russell Pior, Mary Portillo, Mark Simon, Gordon Smith, Joseph Thaxton, Paul Tischler, Ginger

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LIFE MEMBERSHIP AWARDS Receiving Life Membership Awards, recognizing members who have 30 years of cumulative membership and are now at least 65 years old, were John Balliew, Darryl Corbin, Glenda Dunn, Duane Hengst, Scott Hibbs, Clay Hodges, Jeffrey Jewett, Ronald Kelling, Michael Lundstrom, James Morrison, Rafael Ortega, Mark Perkins, Charles Profilet, Carol Reed, David Singleton and Harvey Svetlik

GOLD WATER DROP AWARDS Recognizing members who have achieved 50 years of service to the water community and AWWA: Gary R. Smith.

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Watermark Awards Applaud Communication

Texas Section AWWA and WEAT honored members for their efforts to communicate with the public. At Texas WaterTM 2024, the winners of the annual Watermark Awards were recognized.

CATEGORY I Communications Programs: internal campaigns, external campaigns, crisis communications. Large Utility » San Antonio Water System: Wrangle Your Water Use! Small Utility » Woodlands Water Agency: 2023 Woodlands Water Communications Campaign. River Authorities or Districts » Upper Trinity Regional Water District: Don’t Water At All Y’all Campaign Non-Utility » Texas Water Development Board: My Texas Water Photo Campaign.

CATEGORY II Publications: annual reports, water quality reports, brochures, postcards, etc.

Large Utility » City of Fort Worth: Fort Worth Water Annual Report 2022 Planning for the Next Year and the Next Generation. Small Utility » City of Southlake: 2023 Water Quality Report. River Authorities or Districts » San Jacinto River Authority: SJRA by the Numbers Onepager Non-Utility » Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance: Water Reuse Publication and Coverage. Honorable Mentions » Arlington Water Utilities: 2022 Year End Report. Tarrant Regional Water District: TRWD Strategic Plan Booklet.

CONTINUED PAGE 32 | watermark awards

Water Conservation and Reuse Awards Recognize Conservation, Reuse Efforts

Each year, the Texas Section AWWA Conservation and Reuse Division recognizes those who have demonstrated excellence in Water Conservation and Reuse Practices. Here are this year's winners:

Large Utility, Direct Conservation Project: City of Dallas: Three Fundamental Programs: Minor Plumbing Repair, New Throne for Your Home and Industrial, Commercial, Institutional No-Cost Water Efficiency Assessment and Rebate Programs The City of Dallas takes a proactive, expansive approach to water conservation, incorporating multiple city departments and divisions in its robust, multi-

pronged strategy. With a long history of leadership in water conservation, Dallas continues to be a leader in water conservation efforts in North Texas. Dallas was the first city in the region to implement mandatory time of day and maximum twice-weekly watering requirements, and the first to introduce a public awareness campaign. The City of Dallas continues to expand its diverse menu of incentive-based programs, public education, and outreach strategies, to ensure that programs, messaging, and content remain fresh, relevant, responsive, and effective. The City of Dallas Water Conservation Division, part of the Office of

CONTINUED PAGE 38 | conservation & reuse

TAWWA Chapter Award Winners

Texas AWWA recognized its local chapters for their achievements and valuable contributions at Texas WaterTM 2024.

Communications: North Central Texas Chapter

The North Central Texas Chapter exemplifies excellence in communication, setting a high standard for member engagement and information dissemination. Their multifaceted communication strategy, incorporating both traditional and digital platforms, ensures that members are well-informed, connected and actively participating in chapter activities. Their use of LinkedIn stands out as a vibrant forum for members to share knowledge, discuss industry trends and celebrate achievements. This dynamic interaction has led to a noticeable increase in their online presence, with a significant uptick in followers and engagement, showcasing the chapter’s growing influence and reach within the water industry. The chapter’s bi-monthly newsletters are another cornerstone of their communication efforts, delivering a rich mix of content that ranges from industry news and technical articles to updates on chapter events and member achievements. These newsletters serve as a vital link between the chapter and its members, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. The chapter’s initiative to gather input on communication preferences and event planning through surveys demonstrates their commitment to responsiveness and continuous improvement. This approach enhances the impact of their communication efforts and deepens member involvement in shaping the chapter’s direction and priorities.

Community Service and Public Outreach: South Texas Chapter

The South Texas Chapter’s commitment to community service and public outreach reflects their deep-seated belief in the value of water and the importance of industry advocacy. Through a series of thoughtfully

designed initiatives, the chapter has effectively engaged with the community, raising awareness about water-related issues and fostering a culture of sustainability and conservation. Their educational programs stand as a testament to the chapter’s dedication to community engagement, offering a variety of learning experiences. These initiatives not only educate the public about the critical role of water in our daily lives but also highlight the industry’s efforts to ensure sustainable water management and access. The chapter’s fundraising activities are closely intertwined with their community service goals, with events designed to support causes that align with TAWWA’s mission. These events not only raise essential funds but also bring together members and the community for shared causes, reinforcing the chapter’s role as a key player in the water industry’s broader mission of service and advocacy.

Educational Offerings: Southeast Texas Chapter

The Southeast Texas Chapter’s educational offerings are a beacon of excellence, providing members with a wealth of opportunities for learning and professional development. Their diverse range of events caters to various interests and learning styles, ensuring that all members have access to valuable resources and knowledge. The Half-Day Seminar is a prime example

of the chapter’s commitment to high-quality education, offering in-depth discussions on pertinent water and wastewater topics. This event not only facilitates knowledge exchange among industry professionals but also reinforces the chapter’s role as a leader in continuing education within the TAWWA community. Their innovative approach to hosting events, which includes virtual options, demonstrates a forward-thinking mind set that prioritizes member inclusivity and engagement. The YP Committee’s activities further highlight the chapter’s education al mission, providing emerging professionals with platforms to learn from seasoned experts, engage in meaningful discussions and build their networks. These initiatives not only support individual career growth but also contribute to the vitality and resilience of the water industry as a whole.

Fundraising: South Texas Chapter

The South Texas Chapter’s fundraising prowess is evident in their creative and effective events, which not only serve as enjoyable community gatherings but also generate significant financial support for various causes. Their ability to blend entertainment with philanthropy exemplifies a deep under standing of effective fundraising, engaging a wide audience while supporting meaningful initiatives. Events like Bingo for Bags illustrate the chapter’s innovative fundraising approach, combining fun activities with the opportunity to contribute to important causes. These event’s success is a testament to the chapter’s ability to mobilize support and foster a sense of com munity and shared purpose among members and participants. The chapter’s involvement in larger-scale fundraising activities, such as the Hill Country Classic Golf Tournament, showcases its capacity to organize and execute events that attract broad participation and generate substantial contributions. These efforts highlight the water industry’s commitment to social responsibility and community support.

Membership Recruitment and Retention: Southeast Texas Chapter

The Southeast Texas Chapter’s achievements in membership recruitment and retention are marked by their strategic and innovative approaches, which have resulted in significant membership growth and enhanced member engagement. Their efforts to create welcoming and informative events, like the Open House, have proven to be highly effective in introducing the chapter and its mission to potential members, fostering a

CONTINUED PAGE 41 | chapter awards

James Dwyer Receives Water For People Award

James Dwyer received the Water For People Kenneth J. Miller Founder's Award at Texas WaterTM 2024. This award honors outstanding volunteer service to the international humanitarian effort to ensure safe drinking water in developing counties.

Dwyer was the driving force and organizer behind the Water For People annual volleyball tournament in Austin, this year having its 12th tournament. He created and organized the first tournament, and has led every one since. Originally using two courts, the event has grown and now requires four courts with around 100 participants, raising approximately $10,000 every year. Dwyer is recognized for his consistent support, for the amount of money raised to support Water For People and for the number participants who learn more about Water For People every year.

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James Dwyer is presented with the Water For People Kenneth J. Miller Founder's Award at Texas WaterTM 2024 by WEAT Past President Kristin O'Neill, WEF Trustee Corey Williams, AWWA representative Kate Nutting and TAWWA Past Chair Amy Middleton.

Membership Awards

The Texas Section AWWA recognizes members for their outstanding recruitment efforts that help maintain the Texas Section’s leadership as the largest single state section of AWWA’s forty-three sections with over 4,400 members. Our volunteers who recruit new members are the reason the Texas Section AWWA remains the most influential water organization in the state. This year we recognize the following for their outstanding recruitment efforts this past year.

Craig Hahn - 2 members

Texas A&M Chapter - 15 members

South Texas Chapter - 19 members

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SETH Program Helps Assure Workers For Safe, Reliable Drinking Water

Almost two dozen high school students are learning the basics of water utility operation this summer as the Texas Section AWWA launches its SETH Pilot Project.

The SETH (Science-Engineering-Technology-Health) Program has been two years in development to address the critical need for workers at Texas utilities.

Some 4,500 Texas utilities have positions they need to fill as they struggle to meet the demands of the state’s growing population, even as the Baby Boom generation and older Gen-Xers leave jobs for retirement.

"These jobs are essential to maintain safe and reliable drinking water for 31 million Texans," noted TAWWA Executive Director Daniel Nix.

The SETH Program, free to both schools and utilities, is designed for easy integration into a high school’s curriculum. The online videos cover 20 hours of training in Basic Water Works Operations.

After completion of the training, a student may take the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality examination. When that’s passed, the student can be licensed as a Class D utility operator upon high school

CONTINUED PAGE 46 | seth program

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Texas AWWA Scholarships are Open — Apply Today!

The application process is now open for TAWWA's annual scholarships: The Texas Section AWWA Scholarship, the Plummer/TAWWA Environmental Scholarship and the One AWWA Operator Scholarship.

The deadline for all is July 12, 2024 and the application process is all online.

Please note that there are separate applications for each scholarship. The qualifications for each one are different and to be considered, applicants will need to fill out each form separately and submit materials separately. Failure to follow instructions may cause disqualification from consideration.

To review the requirements and to apply, visit www.tawwa.org/page/scholarships.

Please contact scholarship@tawwa.org with any questions.

On the webpage, you can find links to also donate directly to support our Scholarship Program or you can support our Scholarship Program by purchasing your Water Conservation License Plate anytime during the year.

Attend the Agricultural Water Sustainability Summit in Lubbock!

The Texas Section of the American Water Works Association and the Texas Tech University Davis College of Agricultural Sciences Natural Resources are collaborating to host the inaugural Agricultural Water Sustainability Summit (AWSS) in Lubbock, August 7-9, 2024

Our goal is to create a nation-wide forum for all water users, including municipalities, industry, producers, researchers and students to share and learn about the various needs related to water and focusing solely on water issues.

In Texas, as in most states, agriculture is the largest consumer of water, using more than 60% of the available supplies annually. This water produces $159.3 billion of food and fiber each year for our nation, which is 8.6% of the Texas GDP. Given this positive impact on the economy of Texas and the food/fiber supply of the nation, the use of water in agriculture is not a trivial matter. Sustainability of this

vital resource and the products it produces will require innovation, collaboration with other users like municipalities and extensive planning for our water future.

The Agriculture Water Sustainability Summit will create a forum for stakeholders to gather, exchange ideas and knowledge, and create a new vision of how water is used in the future.

At this first summit, we aim to be THE premiere relevant agriculture water event in North America, where visionary research, applications and practitioners across the US will discuss how to create water sustainability for agriculture, our state and nation. Come be a part of the solution with us in Lubbock, August 7-9!

Registration:

• Full Registration: $150

• 1-Day Registration: $100

• Student Registration: $50

Full Registration includes:

• Full access to presentations and exhibit hall.

• Lunch on the first and second day.

• Access to reception on second day.

• Access to demonstrations

Conference speakers include Senator Perry, Robert Mace (Meadows Center), Dr. John Nielsen-Gammon (State Climatologist) and NASA/JPL.

For more information and to register as an attendee or exhibitor, visit www.tawwa.org/page/awss2024.

Partnership Programs Announce 2024 Awardees

The Partnership for Safe Water (PSW) and Partnership for Clean Water (PCW) recently announced the program’s 2024 awardees and several Texas organizations were recognized.

The City of Denton's Lake Ray Roberts Water Treatment Plant and Lake Lewisville Water Treatment Plant as well as North Texas Municipal Water's Wylie Water Treatment Plant #4 were all recognized with the Director's Award - First Year.

Awardees represent utilities that have gone above and beyond by participating in the Partnership Programs. We are proud to recognize these utilities for their outstanding commitment to delivering safe, high-

quality water.

Partnership Programs include the water industry's premier utility optimization programs. These programs aim to train utility operations to create and maintain a culture of excellence, exceeding compliance with the ambitious goals of the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act. The programs’ self-assessment guides help utilities transform their approach to operations, much like a team of coaches trains a professional athlete to pursue excellence.

Learn more about Partnership Programs at www. awwa.org/Resources-Tools/Programs/Partnershipfor-Safe-Wate.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 | watermark awards

CATEGORY III Digital Content: websites, social media, infographics, logos, etc.

Large Utility » El Paso Water: WaterWatch E-Newsletter and Website. Small Utility » City of Sugar Land: Sugar Land Story Map. River Authorities or Districts » Trinity River Authority of Texas: Using The Little Mermaid to Spread Hiring Information. Honorable Mentions » Tarrant Regional Water District: Central City Flood Control Website. City of Deer Park: Timmy Knows

CATEGORY IV Community Outreach and Education Programs: events, curriculums, programs.

Large Utility » San Antonio Water System: Steven M. Clouse Water Recycling Center AFTER DARK Small Utility »

River Authorities or Districts » Trinity River Authority of Texas: TRA River Cleanup Activity. Non-Utility » Water Environment Association of Texas - North Texas Section: Membranes and Mudbugs Event. Honorable Mention » Trinity River Authority of Texas: 2023 Art Contest.

CATEGORY V OpEds and Features: guest editorials or columns, feature stories or series.

Small Utility » City of Georgetown: Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem Guest Essay

CATEGORY VI Multimedia: video and photography.

Large Utility » El Paso Water: Trust Your Tap Video.

APEI_TEXAS_2024_0105_QuarterPage_FINAL.pdf 1 1/5/24 1:42 PM

THE FILTRATION SOLUTION

Small Utility » City of Round Rock: Fix a Leak Week Video River Authorities or Districts » Tarrant Regional Water District, City of Dallas Water Utilities and North Texas Municipal Water District: Water is Awesome “Journey of a Drop” Video NonUtility » Texas Water Development Board: Membranes and Mudbugs Event. Texas Water Development Board: TexMesonet data collection network expands coverage through 100th TWDB weather station. Honorable Mentions » San Antonio Water System: Connecting Water Infrastructure to the Natural World - A Poster Series. Trinity River Authority of Texas: Using Barbie Trends to Attract New Talent.

MEDIA AWARD

Jenny Lee: Investigative Reporter/TV Anchor, KVUE News, Austin, TX, link to video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAO-rlMZb-Q

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You can read more about each winner in the online Awards Program: https://rb.gy/ c0n0vb.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 |

In Texas, Gehrig works with the Texas Section’s Small System Division and their Small Systems Assistance program helping utilities in Texas assess and improve their services. In his "spare time" Gehrig serves as an infrastructure engineering director for the Tarrant Regional Water District. His department includes teams that manage design and construction services for new infrastructure as well as updating aging infrastructure. Created in 1999, the "Doc" Ballard Award recognizes Texas Section members who have distinguished themselves by using their personal influence to shape the course of change in our profession by helping utilities and individuals serve the profession better. This award is not presented every year and only goes to those whose selfless contributions to the industry deserve recognition.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 | letter from the texas section chair

Welcome to New Board Members!

I’d like to congratulate the following Board members for their new volunteer roles:

Incoming AWWA Director: Drew Molly

Vice Chair: Mary Gugliuzza

Water Resources Division Chair: Dr. Kathlie S.

Jeng-Bulloch

Young Professionals Chair: Alison Kwong

Mentoring Committee Chair: Michael McBee

Workforce Committee Chair: Erika "Rikki" Anderson

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

Did you know that we have Texas AWWA memes, created by our Education Division volunteers? You can post and share DEI holidays and celebrations along with other water-related memes on your personal or company social media platforms. Memes are saved on the TAWWA Facebook page under "Photos" for easy self-service: https://www.facebook.com/txawwatx/ photos. Here are some ideas:

LGBTQIA+ Pride Month (anytime in June)

Juneteenth on June 19th

Fourth of July on July 4th

SETH

In case you haven’t heard about the SETH project, Texas AWWA has created a training program for high school students that allows them to complete the Basic Water training course to satisfactorily pass the TCEQ test to become a Class D Certified Water Operator.

Uniquely, TCEQ has agreed that students who complete the SETH training before they reach age 18 will be able to take the TCEQ Class D test, and if successful, be able to receive their TCEQ Class D license when they reach the age of 18.

✓ May – upload all the videos onto the learning management system platform

✓ June – begin a pilot with Pflugerville students to help work out any bugs

✓ August – rollout SETH to 200-300 high schools in Texas that have expressed interest!

In addition, we will have a SETH booth at several conventions, including the FFA, Career Technology Association of Texas, and Vocational Ag Teachers Association. Water utilities can support the SETH project in several ways, including promoting SETH at their local high schools. If their local high school enrolls in SETH, we hope the utilities will engage more fully with plant tours, Q&A in the classroom, internships, and even full-time jobs for student graduates! For more information about SETH, visit https://www.tawwa.org/page/SETH.

Graduation Gift Ideas

Are you looking for that perfect gift for your Grad, Mom or Dad? Look no further!

✓ Consider giving the gift of an AWWA student membership for only $20: www.tawwa.org/ page/join

✓ Water conservation is always in style, and our specialty Water Conservation License Plate is only $30 ($22 of which goes directly to our Texas AWWA scholarship fund): www.myplates.com/ design/personalized/passenger/conserve-water

✓ Donate to the TAWWA Scholarship – you can donate in honor or memory of someone: https://www.tawwa.org/donations/donate. asp?id=10321

Happy Trails to You, Mike Howe!

I want to take a moment to thank Mike Howe for his many years of dedicated service to our Section, the Association, and the water industry as a whole. I remember being a YP in the industry and looking forward to reading Mike’s articles in the newsletter.

Upon reflection, I think Mike’s biggest strengths as Executive Director have been his willingness to try new things while keeping water utilities (and membership) in mind. He has demonstrated a willingness to listen to others' ideas, then filter them through legal and other lenses of the non-profit arena, and deliver them at a low-to-no cost benefit to our members. As a utility professional, I really appreciate and respect him for that. Mike, I look forward to your continued participation with the Section as a Lone Star Leader. I almost sang it to you at Billy Bob's, but instead will raise a glass of tap water to you as I type…

Happy trails to you, until we meet again

Happy trails to you, keep smilin' until then

Who cares about the clouds when we're together?

Just sing a song and bring the sunny weather

Happy trails to you, 'till we meet again

Some trails are happy ones

Others are blue

It's the way you ride the trail that counts

Here's a happy one for you

Happy trails to you, until we meet again

Happy trails to you, keep smilin' until then

Who cares about the clouds when we're together?

Just sing a song and bring the sunny weather

Happy trails to you, 'till we meet again

Final Remarks

As the saying goes, "I wasn't born in Texas, but got here as fast as I could." I fell into the water industry by chance (as most of us do), when my Mom made a water quality complaint to the utility in my hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana. Long story short, and almost 28 years later, I have made a very enjoyable and successful career in water. I’m a connector by nature, and during my term as Chair, I hope to connect our membership with volunteer opportunities, member events, and resources.

If you have ideas or suggestions on how to make our Section even better, please email me directly at menardke@trinityra.org. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ karenemenard/.

The application process is now open for TAWWA's annual scholarships: The Texas Section AWWA Scholarship, the Plummer/ TAWWA Environmental Scholarship and the One AWWA Operator Scholarship.

The deadline for all is July 12, 2024 and the application process is all online.

Please note that there are separate applications for each scholarship. The qualifications for each one are different and applicants will need to fill out each form and submit materials separately.

For more info and to apply: www.tawwa.org/page/scholarships

826-9000 ext. 2601

TANKS (270) 826-9000 ext. 4601

| executive director report |

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 | executive director report

not technically trained, I don’t write technical articles. I tend to write reflective essays that are conversational. I like the style and it has served me well. At least I think it has as I have had quite a few positive comments over the years.

More importantly, through these articles I saw the opportunity to connect with you, our members. It is hard to have a one-on-one conversation with 4,600 members every other month, so I always hoped my written musings were worthwhile.

Or, as I have noted before, I might have been just filling space because Liz told me I had a deadline to get the article written. BTW—I was always late. But, and I have admitted this before, I only "reused" five articles and they were all about promoting scholarships (the redeeming value of "reuse"!).

I have spent the last few articles in recent issues of TEXASh2o thanking our committed volunteers who made my last 27 years a real treat and so successful.

We have done a lot right, and I am very proud of what we have done.

It would take a whole issue to thank everyone who has made a difference. No one, including Liz, would let me get away with that. Instead, I simply want to thank all the Board members and members of the Executive Committee over the years who have helped provide guidance and direction and, most importantly, given me the freedom to craft all we have done since 1997. Our success is truly remarkable.

I also want to thank the staff with GCP who have been our "back office" for so long, including Cliff, Clay, Lisa, Tracy and of course, Liz. If you have been to a Texas Water™ Conference, they are the staff behind the registration counter and the experts behind Texas AWWA. Without them we never could have been as responsive to our members or as successful. Oh, for the record one more time, thanks to Liz.

I also want to thank my spouse Donna who many of you know served as Membership Chair for many years and worked as hard as I did to build the Section. To this day she remains the source for the best ideas.

DOWNSTREAM MAT TERS

Reach out to our specialists

Responsible Dechlorination

And finally, I want to thank all of you for allowing me to bring our collective vison to fruition. We have built the largest water association in Texas to become a place where members can successfully collaborate and pursue their passion of protecting public health.

Protecting Every Drop, Every Day, Everywhere. It has been more than I ever expected and to paraphrase the end of the classic movie, Willie Wonka, "Don’t forget what happened to the man who suddenly got everything he always wanted. He lived happily ever after."

the State and engaging Young Professionals to help build a better water future, with their dreams of how to do it. The five think tanks that we will be holding across the State will be the catalyst that activates our dreams, ignites our imaginations and propels us towards the possibilities (or probabilities) of the future. Our water future is as BIG as your dreams.

Thanks. Just plain THANKS. "I’ll see you next time." -30-

I can only imagine the potential you all are capable of bringing to solving the future of the water sector, with your dreams. I am looking forward to playing my part in the realization of those dreams, as I continue to reach for mine.

| conservation & reuse awards |

Environmental Quality & Sustainability, works closely with Dallas Water Utilities to provide programs that help every water customer make improvements to their water efficiency—faucet by faucet, toilet by toilet, kitchen by kitchen, and process by process—regardless of their status as a residential, multifamily, commercial, industrial, or institutional customer. These programs ensure that no customer is without city-sponsored support for reducing water consumption and improving water efficiency in their homes or businesses. A trio of specific programs provide those solutions: Minor Plumbing Repair Program for low-income homeowners; New Throne for your Home programs for residential and multifamily customers; and ICI No-cost Water Efficiency Assessment and Rebate Incentive program for industrial, commercial, institutional, and multifamily water customers of all sizes.

Medium Utility, Direct Conservation Project: City of Round Rock: Safeguarding Round Rock’s Water – A Lost and Found Story

The City of Round Rock took a comprehensive utilitywide approach to water use management. In 2012, facing a 9.67% water loss, the city set out to safeguard its water supply, prioritizing water loss reduction and cost savings for its residents. This concerted effort involved a utility-wide strategy encompassing four key areas:

Operations: Effectively optimized the water treatment process, reducing water loss and operating costs, and installed eleven pressure monitoring points, quickly identifying, and deploying City crews to address pipe breaks in the distribution system.

Maintenance: The implementation of a proactive Leak Detection Program addressed 157 leaks in the distribution system that were undetectable from the

surface and an Automated Meter Reading Program that reduced apparent water loss.

Engineering: Instituted a strategic Water Main Replacement Program targeting high-breakage areas, replacing 23.7 miles of water mains, and significantly decreasing annual main breaks.

Public Outreach: Enhancing outreach efforts with a Courtesy Leak Alert Program aided in the timely identification and resolution of water leaks on the private side. Staff successfully notified and assisted 819 residential and 323 commercial customers of continuous water flow.

By 2022, Round Rock’s water loss was 3.38%. The collective impact of these measures saved an estimated 562 million gallons of water in 2022 alone. Through a comprehensive utility-wide approach, Round Rock has helped safeguard its water supply and instituted proactive and sustainable water management.

Large Utility, Indirect Conservation Project: El Paso Water: GROWS Workshops – an Adult Education Partnership

Gardening Resources Outreach Workshops and Seminars "GROWS" adult education seminars and workshops are a partnership between two organizations—El Paso Master Gardeners and El Paso Water—aligned in their water conservation goals. The Master Gardeners plan all events, and El Paso Water’s Conservation Department prepares conservation slides for the front end of each presentation and reimburses the Master Gardeners for the program. GROWS presentations range widely—from passive and active rainwater harvesting to drip irrigation basics, to selecting trees and native plants for desert dwellings. Some have an outdoor element; some may have a hands-on activity. The range and breadth of topics is much greater than the Water Conservation department could provide alone and with limited staffing resources. And for the Master Gardeners, the GROWS presentations are an opportunity to earn CEUs and carry their own messaging and expertise to the community. The GROWS events over the year were projected to save 89,000 gallons per year through

education and incentive distribution. Perhaps more importantly, the media generated from the events reminds El Pasoans of our need to be water wise. Paired with the post-pandemic relaunch of other local events, this program is intended to "bring back" the promotion and appreciation of native, water-smart, water savvy landscapes. The project will continue through 2024 and, expectedly, continue to GROW.

Medium Utility, Indirect Conservation Project: City of Sugar Land: Museum Sponsorship

Sugar Land, in response to the recommendations laid out in its Integrated Water Resource Plan, prioritizes public education to promote water conservation. Understanding the crucial role of community engagement in this endeavor, Sugar Land sponsored the "Ocean Bound!" Exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land in the spring of 2023. While the exhibit explores broader environmental themes, its core message emphasizes the significance of water conservation in local contexts. By leveraging this platform, Sugar Land aims to educate residents about the importance of responsible water usage and the impact of individual actions on overall water sustainability. In the spring of 2023, the "Ocean Bound!" Exhibit attracted over 12,000 people. Through interactive displays and educational programs, the exhibit raised awareness about practical strategies for conserving water resources, such as reducing consumption, minimizing waste, and adopting sustainable practices. This significant outreach highlights Sugar Land’s commitment to empowering residents with the knowledge and tools needed to contribute to water conservation efforts. By focusing on water conservation within the context of the "Ocean Bound!" Exhibit, Sugar Land emphasizes the immediate relevance of sustainable water practices to the community and aims to inspire meaningful action towards a more sustainable future.

Small Utility, Indirect Conservation Project: Wells Branch MUD: Drought-Resistant BMP Initiative

Working to create a beautiful and sustainable

community landscape, Wells Branch Municipal Utility District (the District) implemented drought-resistant Best Management Practices (BMPs). These BMPs incorporate a diverse range of projects showcasing a commitment to addressing the challenges of water scarcity. When putting the drought-resistant BMPs into practice, the District made several strides in 2023, including removing invasive species, elevating communications about water-saving actions, providing a community garden space with water conservation guidelines, updating educational signage throughout pollinator gardens, upgrading District irrigation systems, and partnering to form a new conservation community group. As a result of implementing watersaving BMPs, tangible reductions in water consumption within the district include reduced irrigation water usage, reduced residential and commercial water usage. The district’s implementation of drought-

resistant BMPs demonstrates intentional water conservation and sustainable landscape practices that display a commitment to tangible results.

Bob Derrington Reclamation Award: North Fort Bend Water Authority: Grand Lakes Reclaimed Water System

The Bob Derrington Reuse Award is named after the visionary and innovative Odessa Texas Utility Manager who, in the 1980s, expanded Odessa’s existing water reuse program. As a strong advocate for reuse long before it was popular, Bob Derrington understood that the beneficial use of treated effluent and water conservation would not only increase water supplies for Odessa but help develop the expansion of reuse in Texas.

The North Fort Bend Water Authority "NFBWA" was created in 2005 to prevent subsidence as part of the Fort Bend Subsidence District "FBSD" Regulatory Plan. The NFBWA’s mission reads: Provide. Conserve. Educate. It provides a plentiful supply of clean water from multiple sources for our families now and in the future. It conserves our groundwater and surface water supplies to provide for tomorrow’s water needs. It educates people on the value of water, where our water comes from, and the importance of protecting this vital resource. The NFBWA’s Board of Directors has always strived to find opportunities to be a leader for water sourcing in the region. An assessment indicated that building a reclaimed water system to serve the Grand Lakes Community Association irrigation systems and amenity lakes would contribute up to 0.59 million gallons of water per day of reclaimed water and preserve groundwater and surface water sources for other uses. The Grand Lakes Reclaimed Water Distribution System Project, along with one other master planned community, are the first NFBWA owned and operated systems. To date, the Grand Lakes project has reported over 93 million gallons of reclaimed water used for lake fill and common space irrigation.

welcoming environment that encourages involvement. Their development of an informational flyer serves as a valuable tool in these efforts, providing new and prospective members with a concise and engaging overview of the chapter’s activities, benefits, and opportunities for involvement. This proactive approach not only aids in recruitment but also supports retention by ensuring members are aware of and can easily access the resources and opportunities available to them. By focusing on the quality and diversity of their events, the Southeast Texas Chapter has created a dynamic and inclusive community that appeals to a wide range of professionals within the water industry. Their success in increasing membership and fostering active participation is a testament to their commitment to building a strong, engaged, and vibrant chapter.

Mentorship:

North Central Texas Chapter

The North Central Texas Chapter’s mentorship program stands as a model of excellence, embodying TAWWA’s commitment to fostering professional growth and industry leadership. Through thoughtful design and implementation, the chapter has a mentorship environment that supports developing its members from young professionals into seasoned experts. Their focus on creating additional leadership opportunities within chapter committees enhances the mentorship experience and provides a structured pathway for members to grow, contribute, and assume leadership roles. This approach benefits the individuals involved and strengthens the chapter’s overall capacity and vitality. Expanding the YP Committee and introducing new roles and committees are indicative of the chapter’s proactive and inclusive approach to mentorship. By offering a range of leadership opportunities and supporting members in their professional journeys, the North Central Texas Chapter is making a significant contribution to developing the next generation of water industry leaders. By investing in the growth and development of its members, the North Central Texas Chapter is enhancing the careers of individual professionals and strengthening and sustainability of the water industry as a whole.

Jack Schulze. TAWWA recognized them at Texas WaterTM 2024 in Fort Worth and they will also be honored at AWWA ACE in Anaheim, CA, in June.

Molly, an AWWA member for more than 15 years, has served in a variety of Section volunteer roles, including as a Chapter leader, Section Trustee, Past Chair and soon to be a Director on the AWWA Board. He is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Corpus Christi Water, leading their seawater desalination efforts.

Schulze, an AWWA member for more than 35 years, has helped provide guidance to several water plants as well as to policymakers to craft better solutions for all utility systems. He started his own firm, where he still provides guidance on meeting high drinking water standards and regulations to not only water systems but also to regulators to help make utilities better at what they do (Schulze was unable to attend Texas Water to receive his award).

Gold

Silver

Diamond

The Science of Sure

tank builders, inc.

Pipe & Fittings

Bronze

TAWWA Welcomes New Members Joining

Aurora Acevedo McAllen, TX

Mark Adam Houston, TX

Bhupendra Chand Austin, TX

Abigail Chapman College Station, TX

Thomas Freeman Canyon, TX

FUSO America Corporation Houston, TX

Diana Hanes Waxahachie, TX

Toni Hardeman Katy, TX

March 1–April 30, 2024

Atul Kajale Austin, TX

Sherri Kuhl Austin, TX

Alison Kwong Austin, TX

Daphnae Karavantos Schnur Pearland, TX

Rebecca Katzke Austin, TX

Brian Kim

Jacie Lewis Irving, TX

Philip Liu Spring, TX

TAWWA Welcomes New Members Joining March 1–April 30, 2024

Joslyn Martinez San Antonio, TX

Oscar Martinez Fort Worth, TX

Vanessa Martinez San Antonio, TX

Stevan McCarthy Corpus Christi, TX

James Meier Coppell, TX

Kim Messer Arlington, TX

Darren Miller Waller, TX

Susan Montgomery West Lake Hills, TX

Jose Munoz Mercedes, TX

Daniel Myers Seguin, TX

Richard Nichols Irving, TX

Alexis Nix Wichita Falls, TX

Tayia Oddonetto El Paso, TX

Toluwalase Ojeyemi Lubbock, TX

Brad Olson Rosharon, TX

Emily Parise Dallas, TX

Paseo Del Este MUD El Paso, TX

Tyler Pierson San Antonio, TX

PipeSense Houston, TX

Loren Powell McKinney, TX

Taylor Prentice Wylie, TX

Michael Pulllen Brownwood, TX

Isaac Quintanilla Dallas, TX

Karina Rangel San Antonio, TX

Gerardo Riano Austin, TX

Joey Roberts Cedar Park, TX

J. Rubio Fort Worth, TX

Justas Rutkauskas Austin, TX

Klint Sajdak Georgetown, TX

Edgar Sanchez Houston, TX

Matthew Sanchez Granbury, TX

Martin Saucedo La Marque, TX

Patrick Savage Mansfield, TX

Taylor Savoie The Woodlands, TX

Michael Sellars McAllen, TX

Timothy Shea Abilene, TX

Aiden Shelton Winona, TX

Pam Shockley Freeport, TX

Paul Shropshire San Marcos, TX

Charles Stroud Sugar Land, TX

Michael Studer Dallas, TX

Gabriella Surman Austin, TX

Dexter Tanner Mont Belvieu, TX

Christina Tieyah Dallas, TX

Yusuke Tomiyama Houston, TX

Tomas Torres Frisco, TX

Xavier Torres Austin, TX

Madeline Townsend Austin, TX

Vinisha Vallabhaneni San Antonio, TX

Ashley Van Keer Frisco, TX

Lacy Vardeman Slaton, TX

Nicholas Vasquez San Antonio, TX

Anson Veach Mansfield, TX

Nick Visic Spring, TX

Michelle Warren Texarkana, TX

Mikail Williams Corpus Christi, TX

Luke Wilson San Antonio, TX

Seth Woodfin Dallas, TX

Michael Wray Abilene, TX

Dan Zeman The Woodlands, TX

Lu Zhang Montgomery, TX

50th Anniversary of the SAFE Drinking Water Act

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was signed into law on December 16, 1974, which makes 2024 the 50th anniversary of the original statute.

In honor of 50 years since the passing of the Safe Drinking Water Act, AWWA is excited to celebrate the successes of the sector and water professionals whose nonstop efforts have kept our water safe and reliable.

Join us in recognizing the Safe Drinking Water Act’s 50th anniversary by leveraging the available news and information provided here: www.awwa.org/Resources-Tools/ResourceTopics/Celebrating-50-Years-of-the-SafeDrinking-Water-Act

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 | seth program

graduation or completing a GED. Then the student is eligible for employment in a Texas utility.

"That’s a launching pad for the student," said Dean Sharp, a member of the SETH Program Team. "From there a student can move up to a variety of roles—lab analyst, pump and motor technician, water quality monitor, water distribution technician or safety manager. And they can move up various levels of management."

The SETH Pilot Project this summer will provide instruction to 23 students at Pflugerville ISD’s Weiss High School. The four-week curriculum was developed by a consortium of Central Texas utilities and school districts.

Along with the SETH videos, the summer training will include presentations by subject matter experts and tours of water facilities in the area.

Following the summer pilot program, TAWWA will, in cooperation with consortium partners, invite more school districts and utilities to take advantage of the SETH online training to develop homegrown water workforces.

TAWWA’s SETH Program has been developed in cooperation with TCEQ, the Texas Education Agency and the Texas A&M Engineering and Extension Service with partial funding provided by grants from the Texas Department of Agriculture.

For more information, see www.tawwa.org/page/ seth.

Visit www.tawwa.org for events happening near you

What’s Happening Across Texas

JUNE 27

www.tawwa.org JULY 12

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www.tawwa.org

www.tawwa.org

Want to share your event with the Texas water community? Contact Mike Howe, 512-238-9292, or mikehowe@tawwa.org. Check the Section’s website, www.tawwa.org, for the latest information on Section activities.

Apply for a TAWWA Scholarship!

The application process is now open for TAWWA's annual scholarships: The Texas Section AWWA Scholarship, the Plummer/ TAWWA Environmental Scholarship and the One AWWA Operator Scholarship

The deadline for all is July 12, 2024 and the application process is all online.

Please note that there are separate applications for each scholarship. The qualifications for each one are different and applicants will need to fill out each form and submit materials separately. For more info and to apply: www.tawwa.org/page/scholarships

c/o GCP Association Services, LLC

PO Box 676 | Pflugerville, TX 78691

512-251-8101 | (f) 512-251-8152

txh20@tawwa.org | www.tawwa.org