What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n What motivated you to get involved in several leadership roles over the years at WPI?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n What motivated you to get involved in several leadership roles over the years at WPI?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n I developed and taught a leadership and management class for Water Utility. It was designed for supervisors and managers who had worked their way into a supervisory or management role. Most employees in this circumstance have received no formal training in supervision, management, or leadership. I have taught multiple cohorts, and I think it has assisted several of my fellow employees with their professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What motivated you to get involved in several leadership roles over the years at WPI?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n Can you describe an initiative you spearheaded or contributed to that you are particularly proud of?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I developed and taught a leadership and management class for Water Utility. It was designed for supervisors and managers who had worked their way into a supervisory or management role. Most employees in this circumstance have received no formal training in supervision, management, or leadership. I have taught multiple cohorts, and I think it has assisted several of my fellow employees with their professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What motivated you to get involved in several leadership roles over the years at WPI?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n The atmosphere in Columbia County is one of teamwork and family, which I love! We call ourselves the Water Utility family. I get to know my employees. I care about them, and they know I care. I try to touch base with my employees on a regular basis. We routinely have meals together. In the Business Office, we have monthly birthday brunches to celebrate those who are having birthdays \u2013 we can\u2019t shut down the office for the whole group to go out. In the lab, we typically go to lunch as a group to celebrate birthdays and other achievements, like winning the Lab of the Year competition for the Georgia Association of Water Professionals. I work hard to explain my expectations to my folks. I provide the training and the tools they need to do their jobs effectively, then I get out of their way and let them work. The managers that report to me are great at what they do; I don\u2019t need to get in their way. My goal is to be a good servant-leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Can you describe an initiative you spearheaded or contributed to that you are particularly proud of?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I developed and taught a leadership and management class for Water Utility. It was designed for supervisors and managers who had worked their way into a supervisory or management role. Most employees in this circumstance have received no formal training in supervision, management, or leadership. I have taught multiple cohorts, and I think it has assisted several of my fellow employees with their professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What motivated you to get involved in several leadership roles over the years at WPI?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n How do you ensure that your team stays motivated and engaged in their work?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The atmosphere in Columbia County is one of teamwork and family, which I love! We call ourselves the Water Utility family. I get to know my employees. I care about them, and they know I care. I try to touch base with my employees on a regular basis. We routinely have meals together. In the Business Office, we have monthly birthday brunches to celebrate those who are having birthdays \u2013 we can\u2019t shut down the office for the whole group to go out. In the lab, we typically go to lunch as a group to celebrate birthdays and other achievements, like winning the Lab of the Year competition for the Georgia Association of Water Professionals. I work hard to explain my expectations to my folks. I provide the training and the tools they need to do their jobs effectively, then I get out of their way and let them work. The managers that report to me are great at what they do; I don\u2019t need to get in their way. My goal is to be a good servant-leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Can you describe an initiative you spearheaded or contributed to that you are particularly proud of?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I developed and taught a leadership and management class for Water Utility. It was designed for supervisors and managers who had worked their way into a supervisory or management role. Most employees in this circumstance have received no formal training in supervision, management, or leadership. I have taught multiple cohorts, and I think it has assisted several of my fellow employees with their professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What motivated you to get involved in several leadership roles over the years at WPI?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n I read a lot. I also attend industry conferences. I particularly like to learn about new technologies from vendors and from people at other utilities who are using the technology we are considering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How do you ensure that your team stays motivated and engaged in their work?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The atmosphere in Columbia County is one of teamwork and family, which I love! We call ourselves the Water Utility family. I get to know my employees. I care about them, and they know I care. I try to touch base with my employees on a regular basis. We routinely have meals together. In the Business Office, we have monthly birthday brunches to celebrate those who are having birthdays \u2013 we can\u2019t shut down the office for the whole group to go out. In the lab, we typically go to lunch as a group to celebrate birthdays and other achievements, like winning the Lab of the Year competition for the Georgia Association of Water Professionals. I work hard to explain my expectations to my folks. I provide the training and the tools they need to do their jobs effectively, then I get out of their way and let them work. The managers that report to me are great at what they do; I don\u2019t need to get in their way. My goal is to be a good servant-leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Can you describe an initiative you spearheaded or contributed to that you are particularly proud of?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I developed and taught a leadership and management class for Water Utility. It was designed for supervisors and managers who had worked their way into a supervisory or management role. Most employees in this circumstance have received no formal training in supervision, management, or leadership. I have taught multiple cohorts, and I think it has assisted several of my fellow employees with their professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What motivated you to get involved in several leadership roles over the years at WPI?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I took my certification exams, I disagreed with a couple of items on the exam, so I contacted Ernie Earn, who served on the Georgia Operator Certification Board at the time. He set me up to be an item bank reviewer (a Subject Matter Expert that reviews items being considered for use on examinations). I fell in love with the whole psychometric process. From there I was invited to join the Laboratory Exam Committee. I felt like being involved in WPI was a way I could give back to the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2001, I was appointed by the Governor to the Georgia Water\/Wastewater Operator Certification Board, which is a member of WPI. After attending my first WPI conference, I was asked to consider running for a leadership role in WPI. I was honored to be elected as the Wastewater Treatment Division Director for WPI in 2003. I was subsequently elected to serve as an officer from 2004 \u2013 2007. I still believe my involvement with WPI is a way to give back to the water and wastewater industry; to have a lasting positive impact on future generations of operators and laboratory analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What advice would you give to women aspiring to take on a leadership role in the water industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Work in an organization where the leadership respects its employees and encourages them to be successful, don\u2019t wait to be promoted to learn what you need to know to move up in your organization, and be a leader, even if you haven\u2019t been promoted to an official leadership position. Being a leader means doing what needs to be done because it needs to be done, not for the accolades. I would also say don\u2019t be afraid to let others know you are smart, but be humble, not arrogant. Strive to keep learning. I would encourage women to be involved in organizations or associations outside of work related to our industry \u2013 WPI, AWWA, WEF, your local operator association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The lifelong friends I have made is definitely the most rewarding aspect. I can\u2019t begin to name all of the wonderful people I have met in the United States and other countries throughout my career that I truly consider friends. A close second would be the knowledge that I have served my community by protecting public health and the environment. Think about it \u2013 I\u2019ve been able to be part of making sure people have clean water to drink \u2013 water that does not make them sick. I also play a role in cleaning the dirty water before returning it to the environment, preserving water resources for future generations.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Celebrating Women's History Month: Spotlight on Margaret Doss, PO","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"celebrating-womens-history-month-spotlight-on-margaret-doss-po","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-08 10:04:24","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-08 16:04:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=1035","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":925,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-08-03 14:39:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:39:34","post_content":"WPI wrapped up their eventful summer as the POwer Tour came to an end in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The team was joined by WPI Board Past Chairs, Alison McGee, PO, and Alan Cranford, PO, to recognize four Professional Operators. The simple ceremony impressed WPI VP, Tom Healy, with the amount of pride that local leadership showed for their operators\r\n\r\nThe Murfreesboro Water Resources Board was in full attendance to honor the POs and recognize the dedication of their service. In conversation with WPI leaders, they shared how enjoyable their board is, and it is because their operators are so proficient that the board rarely has issues to discuss about water. It is a remarkable occurrence to have full leadership present at a pinning ceremony and it is a testament to the value and gratitude they have for the operators of Murfreesboro.\r\n\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWater operators are essential to the safety and well-being of our communities. They are first responders in so many ways, from developing our communities to advancing medical technology, that we owe them a debt of gratitude for the essential role they play. With the PO program, their dedication is recognized and celebrated through a national standard that meets each state and provincial standard. Let us take a moment to recognize these professionals who have taken the extra steps in their professional development and become certified professional operators\u2014they serve as an inspiration for other water operators and for everyone. As citizens, let us show our gratitude for their invaluable service by supporting Professional Operators across the country. Join them\u2014become a Professional Operator today and make a difference in your community!<\/span>","post_title":"Superior Water Starts With You","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"superior-water-starts-with-you","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-21 13:11:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:11:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=845","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":false,"total_page":1},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_11"};
\n
\u201cSeeing leadership engage directly with the operators is an important thing. That\u2019s what helps drive these professionals\u2014recognition from leadership. It\u2019s more impactful when it\u2019s done at a local level like this.\u201d Tom Healy <\/em><\/blockquote>\r\nIt was touching to see the excitement around Alan and Alison as they presented the certificates and performed the pinning of the operators. The duo exude support for the water community that has had an impact on so many successful operators. Alan has been a mentor for countless operators, including Alison, who drove over 2 hours for a reunion at the place her career flourished. It will be no surprise if WPI continues to visit Tennessee in the future for pinning ceremonies as the work culture there and the values of the PO program heavily overlap.\r\n\r\nPaul Bishop, President and CEO of WPI, gave his comments on the 2023 POwer Tour. He explained how it was interesting to see how every stop had a different culture and different approach to the pinning. One thing that was present throughout the tour was how the honored POs were embraced by their colleagues and the sense of pride each had in their profession.\r\n\r\nPaul reflects, \u201cThis tour is a testament to operators who are wanting to do more and to be recognized for the work they put in. It gives us a platform to show off a diverse community. Every pinning had a different atmosphere, but they all celebrated some of the most dedicated men and women in our field. With that, I\u2019d like to say thank you to all our Professional Operators, our team looks forward to meeting more of you to honor in your communities!\u201d\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nWe are thrilled to see so much interest in our POwer Tour and look forward to continuing to support POs around the world. You can see where we\u2019ve been so far, HERE<\/a>. If you would like to host a POwer event, please send us an inquiry online or send an email to us at: info@professionaloperator.org<\/a>. <\/em>","post_title":"POwer in Tennessee","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-tennessee","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-03 14:40:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-03 19:40:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=925","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":908,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-07-07 12:00:49","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-07 17:00:49","post_content":"There is a common thread that runs through Canada and Barbados - the dedication and excellence of their Professional Operators. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of their local water and wastewater facilities. The tireless work of POs often goes unnoticed, but in June, members of the WPI team traveled to Toronto, Canada and St. Michael, Barbados to recognize them. We at WPI believe it is important to celebrate and support these hardworking individuals while honoring their contributions.\r\n\r\n
Morley Foy (left) and his son, Adam Foy (right) at the pinning ceremony.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn June 12, 2023, WPI had the opportunity to pin three operators during the AWWA ACE 2023 conference. The POs were honored in front of their colleagues, families, and friends. Although this is an annual event, this year offered a special experience. Morley Foy, PE, the current Water Division Director <\/em>on the WPI Board of Directors had the privilege of pinning his son, Adam Foy. Our team looks forward to celebrating more Canadian POs in 2024!\r\n\r\nBecoming a PO is a way to show one\u2019s commitment to public health and willingness to uphold the highest industry standards. It is more than merely taking an exam and earning a certification. Demonstrating an extra level of dedication to the profession should be acknowledged. With that in mind, the POwer tour continued\u2026\r\n\r\nThe next stop was CAWASA\u2019s Caribbean Water Operators (CWO) Conference where seven more POs were pinned. Our team was in awe of the overwhelming passion for the job these POs exhibited during the pinning celebration. The community roared with cheers for every PO that crossed the stage to be recognized.\r\n
\u201cIt was truly an inspired event. They reminded us of why we do what we do. They showed so much excitement and pride in their work, their community, and really demonstrated what a close-knit group can accomplish through hard work and determination!\u201d\u00a0 Paul Bishop, WPI President & CEO<\/em><\/span><\/blockquote>\r\nThe buzz of excitement for the PO certification continued through the conference as WPI\u2019s Haley Vanness held a session about the success and benefits of the certification program. The combination of that session and the praise their newly pinned colleagues received encouraged eight more operators to take the first step in applying to be a PO.\r\n\r\nIt has been a successful POwer Tour so far and we are excited to continue our journey in Tennessee later this month. Thank you to all the Professional Operators who have committed themselves to protecting public health! We salute you!","post_title":"International POwer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"international-power","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-10 07:49:26","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-10 12:49:26","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=908","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":861,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-05-25 13:00:44","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-25 18:00:44","post_content":"Water Professionals International recognizes that water and wastewater operators are at the frontlines of protecting public safety. That is why this year WPI is touring across three countries to celebrate Professional Operators in their dedication to public service and expertise to the industry. The POwer Tour kicked off during Drinking Water Week; the WPI team of Paul Bishop, Tom Healy, and Haley Vanness traveled to Washington D.C. to honor the POs operating out of DC Water. This organization has shown industry-leading dedication to the PO program and had 24 operators honored as POs, many that hold more than one certification.\r\n\r\nDC Water has partnered with the PO program to integrate professional development in their facilities. The organization\u2019s management has encouraged their operators to continue to better themselves in their field and supported the many efforts of continued growth as professionals. In correlation, the majority of operators hold more than one PO certification and have achieved higher levels. The supportive environment has curated more camaraderie among the staff. The WPI team shared that the entire event felt like friends got together to celebrate their accomplishments and that everyone was warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nPositivity is a common trend for DC Water. In fact, they go above industry standards to enable positive change in their community through an apprenticeship program. This five-year program allows a second chance for many individuals. It is a way to give those who may not have the same opportunities in life, or who have had to overcome troubled pasts, a chance to take control of their life again. They learn responsibility and necessary trade skills, and in the process, they celebrate milestones that get them closer to completing the program.\r\n\r\nWPI was honored to start the POwer Tour in Washington D.C. based on the dedication to supporting the community and fostering improvement focused not just on the \u201cemployee\u201d, but on the individual person. It is also why WPI hopes to commit to events like this in the coming years, as DC Water continues to encourage POs. The event was a perfect start to the summer tour celebrating POs!\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GqsFokBr6eo&t=4s\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n ","post_title":"POwer in DC","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"power-in-dc","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 09:13:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 14:13:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=861","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":855,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2023-05-05 13:00:50","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-05 18:00:50","post_content":"Good operators start with good trainers\u2026 trainers like Shantelle Clarke, PO. To say she is adaptable is an understatement. Her work has taken her through facilities across British Columbia, the Yukon, and Saskatchewan, before moving to Hawaii, and now Washington. Throughout it all, she has proven her ability to adjust and thrive through the evolution of her career.\r\n\r\nFor years, she has been dedicated to training operators in their field, but how did it begin? Some would say fate. Like many others, Shantelle graduated high school still unsure of what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. To avoid being overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options in a local college's program calendar, she sat down with her mother and let chance decide. She closed her eyes and pointed her finger down on the page. With that, it was decided; she would begin with Water Quality Technology and see if it was a good fit. Needless to say, it was, and now over 20 years later, she has paved her way as an industry role model, even though not everyone has been supportive.\r\n\r\nAlthough Shantelle has made space for herself in her profession, it has not always been an easy road. Like many working women, she has encountered discrimination based on her gender. She recalled a story of a man who walked out on the first day of a week-long training session because he felt there was nothing a young woman could teach him. She shared, \u201cAt first I took it personally, but then I realized that I have a lot to offer and my experiences\u2013no matter how big or small\u2013are worth sharing.\u201d She also shared her experience with a director who would limit women and put them into a corner until they were defeated enough to quit or he could manufacture reasons for termination. This caused a strain on Shantelle, but she never allowed it to dim her light and used it as fuel for her fire. Transforming the negativity into motivation for her career has helped her transcend expectations.\r\n\r\n
Shantelle Clarke (middle) presenting at the IiC23 conference along side Jeff Oxenford (left) and Steve Hernandez (right) .[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHer positivity and perseverance have led her to be a sought-after trainer. So much so that she captivated a crowd of industry leaders at the Innovation in Certification 2023 (IiC23) conference during the Train the Trainer workshop. With over 20 years\u2019 experience in the water\/wastewater industry and over 10 years teaching and mentoring, she had the opportunity to share her expertise with peers who would respect her knowledge.\r\n\r\nIt is unfortunate to hear stories of women trying to be accepted in a \u201cman\u2019s job\u201d and the adversity they face, but when women like Shantelle show resilience and refuse to be overlooked, the industry as a whole gets better. Shantelle acknowledged that there is additional pressure to be an overachiever just to be seen as an equal and that the bar is higher based on her gender, but that hasn\u2019t stopped her from success. \u201cI feel the best way for me to overcome pressure is for me to just be myself. Behaving or being something that I am not only endorses the fact that women are a minority, and we shouldn\u2019t have to change to fit in.\u201d She continues to say that if she ever feels like she doesn\u2019t fit in, she reminds herself she is there for a reason and that she is knowledgeable and has so much to offer.\r\n\r\nConfidence, intelligence, and perseverance are all traits Shantelle demonstrates for her trainees on an everyday basis. Her strong will and mentality are added benefits to her well-researched and informative trainings that were developed with decades of valuable experience. The future of water and wastewater is bright when there are women like Shantelle leading the way for operators.","post_title":"Women In Water: The Shantelle Clarke Story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"women-in-water-the-shantelle-clarke-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 14:10:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 19:10:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/immerse.gowpi.org\/?p=855","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":845,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2023-04-21 13:00:57","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-21 18:00:57","post_content":"The modern-day water operator is a multifaceted professional with an incredibly important job. Not only do they ensure safe drinking water, clean waste streams and proper system flow, but they also provide critical maintenance and repair services to keep the public environment healthy. With so much on their plate, it is difficult for these professionals to receive the recognition they truly deserve\u2014which is why we created the Professional Operator (PO) program! It is an exciting way to recognize operators who want to go above and beyond in their profession and expertise and be recognized through an industry leading certification program. Through this program, we applaud those who demonstrate extraordinary efforts while upholding a code of conduct and dedication to their profession and communities.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a society, we all rely on water operators\u2014it is the dedication and expertise of these skilled professionals that helps us to live healthier lives and make our cities function better\u2014now more than ever. The PO program provides essential recognition for those operators who have chosen to be certified as expert water and wastewater treatment operators through our rigorous standards-based testing and peer developed program.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe PO program was built by operators, for operators to meet and\/or exceed all state and provincial certification program standards. It was developed to bring standardization to our water and wastewater operator certification community based upon the best practices of WPI members around the world. It requires education and experience similar to governmental jurisdictions and utilizes WPI's services through the ABC Testing standardized exams for assessing operator competence. To date over 300 people have gone through the program, and more are applying every day.<\/span>\r\n\r\nNot only is the PO program great for recognizing operator proficiency, but it is also able to help existing programs or remote jurisdictions in certifying operators where no current governance or certification is available. It is also being explored by W<\/span>PI\u2019s mem<\/span>bers as a means of outsourcing their current certification administration so government agencies can focus on their core responsibilities of regulatory enforcement.<\/span>\r\n\r\n