The popular Women in Water Symposium has set its return for 2025 with a full-day event on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Cuyamaca College. Registration is now open.
This inclusive event welcomes everyone from high school and college students to seasoned industry veterans. It offers the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals and gain insights from knowledgeable speakers. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.
The 2025 Women in Water Conference theme is “Riding the Career Wave.”
This year’s program theme is “Riding Your Career Wave.” Speakers from a wide variety of disciplines at all levels will discuss career opportunities and paths.
Participating presenters confirmed to date represent the San Diego County Water Authority, City of Oceanside, City of San Diego, Helix Water District, Hoch Consulting, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, Otay Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, and Santa Fe Irrigation District.
Aspiring student water and wastewater professionals are encouraged to attend the 2024 Women in Water Symposium. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
“Our Women in Water Symposium brings together exceptional women from throughout the region, including those who currently work in the water industry, as well as those who are interested in joining,” said event chairperson Maria Rose, a San Diego County Water Authority management analyst.
“This annual symposium offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from and to network with our peers and leaders from throughout San Diego County.”
Career discussions address varied experience levels
A career discussion session at the 2024 Women in Water Symposium. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
Planned sessions address career development and transitions, improving communication skills, and breaking through work stagnation.
Panel discussion topics include “Silent Currents: Things Left Unsaid in the Workplace,” “Riding the Waves of Leadership: Navigating Executive-Level Challenges,” “Beneath the Surface: A Day in the Life of Unseen but Essential Positions,” and a review of the county’s current Potable Reuse Programs including Pure Water San Diego, Pure Water Oceanside, and East County Advanced Water Purification Project.
The conference starts with a newly added networking session, which takes place during check-in from 8 to 10 a.m., as requested by previous attendees. It replaces the reception time after the conference at the end of the day.
General admission is $40. Attendance is free for students, educators, and counselors. Event registration is available online.
Registration is now open for the 2025 Women in Water Symposium at Cuyamaca College on Thursday, March 20. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
“Our sessions provide essential training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to support women at every stage of their careers. Join us in empowering women to reach their full potential across diverse roles, from engineering to management and beyond,” said Rose.
The water and wastewater industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration, and information technology.
Approximately 4,500 professionals serve the San Diego region in water and wastewater careers. More than 1,400 workers are expected to reach retirement age within the next five years. California is one of the states with the greatest employment opportunities in this career field.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/women-in-water-registration-2024.jpg7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2025-02-26 07:25:102025-02-27 15:45:548th Annual Women in Water Conference Schedule Announced
The Vista Irrigation District (VID) is partnering with the Vista Chamber of Commerce’s “Student Opportunities for Career Awareness and Learning (SOCAL) Program to encourage job seekers and students to learn about water industry careers.
As part of the program, two VID employees were featured in informational videos describing their jobs, including their typical duties and the skills needed to succeed. Both employees also discuss the education required and local resources for career training.
Marselino Sanchez: Positive Impact on the Community
Marselino Sanchez says successful job candidates have strong mathematics and analytical skills they can apply to managing water quality. Photo: Vista Irrigation District/Video Capture
Water System Operation II Marselino Sanchez is in charge of maintaining water distribution systems and analyzing water quality. In his interview, Sanchez called his job “dynamic” and said he likes making a positive impact on his community.
“The biggest challenge with this position is trying to manage the distribution system, (and) also trying to handle any emergency that arises,” said Sanchez. “Not every day is the same. It can change within a minute, within seconds, so we’ve got to be able to adapt very quickly. But that’s the part that makes the job very fun and exciting.”
Sanchez said he took courses at Palomar College, which helped prepare him to take require State of California certification exams required for his job. He says successful job candidates have strong mathematics and analytical skills they can apply to managing water quality.
Dean Farris: Flexibility Key To Success
Water Distribution Supervisor Dean Farris works daily with his team to analyze and maintain the VID water system, including water system levels and water quality, water flow, adjustments in water pressures, and maintenance, all while staying ready for any possibility.
Like Sanchez, Farris says successful job candidates must be flexible. “Almost certainly, there’s going to be something that comes up that needs immediate attention, and so you’ve got to be ready for those curve balls that are thrown at you.”
Water Distribution Supervisor Dean Farris works daily with his team to analyze and maintain the Vista Irrigation District water system. Photo: Vista Irrigation District/Video Capture
Farris encourages aspiring water industry professionals to take courses at the community college level, such as Palomar College, to learn about water distribution and water and wastewater treatment. Getting certifications shows an employer that you’re a serious job candidate.
In addition, Farris says successful water and wastewater professionals have strong analytical skills, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate.
“The first thing I do when I walk in here in the morning, before anyone gets here, is analyze that big screen behind me with the historical trends and then make decisions based on that throughout the day,” said Farris.
Both videos are now available on the Vista Chamber of Commerce’s SOCAL webpage and on the SOCAL Workforce YouTube channel.
About Student Opportunities for Career Awareness and Learning
Student Opportunities for Career Awareness and Learning (SOCAL) drives economic empowerment by elevating student awareness of career and educational opportunities across multiple industries and provides a forum for students to take meaningful steps towards participation in the workforce of tomorrow.
Dean Farris and Marselino Sanchez discuss daily operations. Photo: Vista Irrigation District/Video Capture
SOCAL is a collaborative program between education and industry created by Tri-City Medical Center, the San Diego North Economic Development Council and Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista,Escondido, San Marcos, and Encinitas Chambers of Commerce. The vision is to give middle school, high school, and post-secondary students and transitioning adults an opportunity to gain insights into career pathways while allowing businesses and local organizations to participate in these students’ career exploration.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/vid-video-marselino-1.png7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2025-02-12 11:52:292025-02-12 11:52:29Career Outreach by Vista Irrigation District Builds Workforce
A partnership between Palomar College’s Water Technology Program and the Vallecitos Water District’s workforce development program gives students a hands-on opportunity to explore water and wastewater industry jobs and increase their career readiness.
Vallecitos Water District intern Ben Crane works as part of the collections department. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Palomar College professor Jacob Shiba and Vallecitos Water District Public Information/Conservation Supervisor Chris Robbins first discussed the idea in 2019. “We talked about having the interns spend time in each department so they would get the full depth and breadth of our employee roles,” said Robbins. “I also explained to Jacob that it would need (leadership support). I put him in touch with board member Tiffany Boyd-Hodgson, and she became the force behind getting approval.”
The District’s leadership and board supported the program’s development, but its implementation was delayed due to the pandemic. It is now underway, with five students accepted into the program.
See a video about the internship program here.
Internships invaluable for Palomar students
The internship is open to any Palomar College students who have taken a water technology course. Participants are selected through a competitive interview process.
Shiba says the objective is to ensure Palomar students are ready to enter the workforce. “Palomar’s partnership with Vallecitos Water District is invaluable, and it’s really helped our program increase the number of workplace learning opportunities for our students so that they are as career-ready as they can be when they complete our program.”
Ben Crane learned about the internship opportunity from Shiba and he decided to go for it. He also applied for and received a scholarship from the Vallecitos Water District. “I learned a great deal about our water distribution system and how our water is treated.”
Crane spent two days in each department, working alongside Vallecitos water and wastewater professionals. He said he enjoyed learning how to work in teams and was encouraged to ask questions, and everyone gave him insight on how he should approach his career.
Among his highlights was spending time with general manager James Gumpel, who was assistant general manager at the time. “He helped me understand what it’s like to be upper management. He gave me some insight from a seasoned guy who has been in the industry a while,” said Crane.
Interns experience a wide variety of careers
Vallecitos Water District intern Logan Crawford assists with residential water meter readings. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Palomar College student Logan Crawford is currently working his way through the internship program. He said he’s improved his skills working with his hands, joining field crews in the meter department, and practicing his public speaking skills.
Crawford advises participants to keep an open mind. “You go through pretty much every department the district has to offer. It may not be something you think you’re interested in, but you might find yourself falling in love with (the job), and you had no idea. Keeping an open mind really helps. Every day I come to the internship, it’s a new experience.”
After completing his internship, Palomar College student Evan Fox found full-time employment. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Intern Evan Fox successfully found full-time employment with the San Elijo Joint Powers Authority after his internship.
Crane, who is continuing his education as a geography major at Cal State San Marcos, encouraged other students to apply. “It’s a great opportunity. If you’re still pursuing your education … If you’re thinking of pursuing in the water industry, this is a great opportunity to get your foot in the door.”
Developing skilled workforce of the future
Learning to work as part of a team is a vital takeaway from the Palomar College and Vallecitos Water District internship program. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Shiba praised the partnership for giving students the opportunity to increase their career readiness “so that they are ready to enter the water workforce to become a future water and wastewater specialist.” Shiba notes the importance of workforce development is what allows customers “to wash our hands, flush the toilet and take a shower 24/7.”
“It’s been a great success,” said Robbins. “Some of my favorite moments are when an intern realizes he or she likes a department more than they expected. The mechanical electrical department is often a surprise for students. They had not thought of all the pumps and motors we must maintain.”
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/VWD-Interns-Phlavia-Oryem-lab-845x450-1.jpg453845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2024-04-16 20:22:552024-04-16 20:22:55Palomar College and Vallecitos Water District Internship Program Develops Water Workforce
The San Diego County Water Authority and San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) have embarked on a pioneering education partnership to inspire students regionwide to pursue careers in the water and wastewater industry. This new program is the latest initiative in a long history of regional education outreach reaching hundreds of thousands of students in the last two decades.
At the Innovation Center in Linda Vista, SDCOE hosts groups of students, many of whom come from underserved and underrepresented communities, for weeklong innovation programs. These programs are designed to help students identify their individual strengths through an assessment, which highlights several strength areas: Realistic (R), Investigative (I), Artistic (A), Social (S), Enterprising (E), and Conventional (C).
Priority Career Sectors Critical to Region’s Economic Future
Students are grouped into teams that have complementary strengths to work together on water-related activities and learn about possible water industry career paths. Photo: San Diego County Office of Education
“At the Linda Vista Innovation Center, we aim to inspire kids to find their strengths, interests, and values and match those with San Diego Workforce Partnership priority sector careers,” said Dr. Matthew Tessier, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation at the San Diego County Office of Education. “Partnerships with organizations like the San Diego County Water Authority are crucial to our mission, and we look forward to working together to build a brighter future for all.”
These programs give students a glimpse into the opportunities available in various industries, many of which are on the San Diego Workforce Partnership’s priority list. The industries on the list are critical to the region’s economy and will need to hire substantial numbers of capable new employees in the foreseeable future.
Education Partnership Informs Students About Water Industry Careers
The Innovation Center also supports SDCOE’s goals to significantly reduce the number of students living in poverty and reduce overall unemployment in the region over the next decade. By matching students with potential career paths and inspiring them to lean into their strengths early on, thousands of students from elementary to high school leave the program knowing about opportunities that they may not have known about otherwise.
Organizations like the Water Authority and its member agencies benefit from generations of students becoming interested in water-related careers, which are essential to the region’s economy and quality of life.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SDCOE-Activity-845x450-1.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2024-04-04 13:30:122024-04-04 13:30:12Education Partnership Inspires Future Water Leaders
The speakers list for the 2024 Women in Water Symposium, “Empowering The Next Generation of Women,” is now set.
The event returns for its seventh year with a full-day event on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Cuyamaca College. Registration remains open.
Panelists representing a wide variety of disciplines at all levels will discuss career opportunities and paths. The full program is below the article.
Sarah Hargis, wastewater utility worker for the Padre Dam Municipal Water District, is a featured speaker. Photo: Sarah Hargis
“One of the biggest misconceptions about working in water may be that it’s solely about fixing pipes when in reality, it involves a wide range of roles requiring diverse skills such as engineering, science, management, IT, accounting, public outreach, and so much more,” said Sarah Hargis, wastewater utility worker for the Padre Dam Municipal Water District.
“The most rewarding aspect of working as a construction inspector for a municipal water/wastewater district is knowing that I make a direct impact on the community by improving the longevity and quality of the water/wastewater infrastructure.”
Zoë Scott, marine biologist in the Ocean Monitoring Program at the City of San Diego, said people often imagine her job might be confined to a testing lab. Photo: Zoe Scott
Zoë Scott, marine biologist in the Ocean Monitoring Program at the City of San Diego, said people often imagine her job might be boring. “We participate in collaborations with other research entities to answer new and relevant research questions facing our oceans on topics such as ocean acidification, eutrophication, and microplastics. All this together means that our day-to-day can look very different; one day I could be at sea, the next at my microscope, the next at a research meeting, the next writing code to analyze our data and produce reports,” she said.
Debby Dunn poses with her “Groovy Garden” exhibit at the San Diego County Fair. Photo: Debby Dunn
Debby Dunn, senior water resources specialist at the San Diego County Water Authority, said working for the public is especially rewarding: “By working in water efficiency, I get to create programs and projects that help residents and businesses use water wisely. This includes reducing leaks and helping people design waterwise wonderlands that are beautiful and invite birds, bees, and butterflies.”
Career discussions address varied experience levels
The event includes sessions that address career development, leadership, mentoring, interviewing and negotiation tips, diversity, and dealing with change. The day concludes with a networking opportunity at the Water Conservation Garden.
General admission is $35, but students, educators, and counselors can attend for free. Event registration is available online.
The water and wastewater industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration, and information technology.
Approximately 4,500 professionals serve the San Diego region in water and wastewater careers. More than 1,400 of those workers are expected to reach retirement age within the next five years. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators in California earn an annual mean wage of more than $77,890 in 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. California is one of the states with the greatest employment opportunities in this career field.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/San-Diego-EPA-WaterSense-PRIMARY-WNN.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2024-03-11 02:08:332024-03-11 02:08:33Women in Water Conference Speakers List Announced
Water agencies across San Diego County and California water associations offer multiple college scholarship opportunities in 2024 to help candidates secure their education as water and wastewater professionals.
The acceleration of industry retirements, as well as the increasing need for a skilled workforce trained to implement new technologies, result in an increased effort to develop more skilled individuals for water and wastewater industry jobs, including in San Diego County. For more information, visit sandiegowaterworks.org.
Scholarships are available for community colleges, four-year colleges and universities, and graduate-level programs. The following examples are due in the coming weeks for study in the 2023-2024 academic school year.
San Diego regional water scholarships
Helix Water District will recognize two outstanding graduating high school seniors living within the district’s service area with $1,000 scholarships for university studies next fall.
The Robert D. Friedgen Scholarship and $1,000 Dr. Lillian M. Childs Scholarship honor two past leaders of Helix Water District. Friedgen retired in 1998 after 19 years as the district’s general manager and Childs retired in 1999 after 20 years on the board of directors.
Applicants must graduate in spring 2024 and attend a four-year college or university starting in fall 2024. Students submit a two-page essay exploring potable reuse and the East County Advanced Water Purification project. The scholarship committee reviews each applicant’s grades, extracurricular activities, volunteer and work experience, academic and career goals, and financial need.
Vista Irrigation District scholarship winners for 2023 (left to right): Monica Lozada, Naia Riggenbach, Sarai Rojas, Samantha Harris, Colin Gastauer. (Not pictured: Riley Robbins). 2024 scholarship applications are now open. Photo: Vista Irrigation District
Vista Irrigation District invites local high school seniors to compete for up to six scholarships from the District in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. The purpose of the scholarship program is to increase knowledge and awareness of how water-related issues influence our daily activities.
Students who compete for a scholarship must complete an essay and provide a one-page personal statement related to their background and/or goals. Selection criteria also include community involvement or volunteer service, and letters of recommendation from high school faculty.
Applications must be received via email or at the district’s office by 4 p.m. on Friday February 23, 2024. Eligible students must live or go to school within the Vista Irrigation District service area. Find the application link here.
Contact Brent Reyes at (760) 597-3107 ">or email Reyes with questions or to request application information.
Scholarships were issued to local students by the Vallecitos Water District in 2023 to help them continue their higher education. (L to R): Board Vice President Tiffany Boyd-Hodgson, scholarship winners Phlavia Oyrem, Caitlyn Hansen, and Julianna Stipica-Kelecic, Board President Jim Hernandez, scholarship winners Daniel Baza, Evan Fox, and Board Member Erik A. Groset. Not pictured: Board Members Craig Elitharp and Jim Pennock, scholarship winner Brook Sannella. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Vallecitos Water District invites local high school seniors and students at Palomar College and California State University San Marcos to compete for scholarships from the district. Up to six scholarships may be awarded in amounts up to $1,000 per scholarship. The purpose of the scholarship program is to encourage students to learn more about water-related issues impacting their community.
Eligible students must live or go to school within the Vallecitos Water District’s service area. Students must complete an essay and provide a personal statement related to their background and/or goals. Selection criteria also include community involvement or volunteer service, a financial needs worksheet, and letters of recommendation from faculty or an associate.
">Email Chris Robbins for application materials. Applications for the 2024 scholarship must be emailed or delivered to the District office by the deadline*. Note: The 2024 scholarship deadline has not yet been announced.
The Sweetwater Authority Governing Board awarded the Work for Water Scholarship to two local students: David Inchaurregui Jr. of Chula Vista and Kassandra Beltran of National City. Photos: Sweetwater Authority
Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to new or currently enrolled students at the Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College or another accredited college, community college, or trade school with a career goal in the water industry.
The application deadline has not been determined. For questions regarding the scholarship, application, or uploading documentation, email or call Alessandra Angelone, Senior Public Affairs Representative, at (619) 409-6721.
The Mark Watton Scholarship Fund through the Foundation for Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges supports students attending the Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College. It honors former Otay Water District General Manager Mark Watton’s four decades of service to the district.
Applicants must be currently enrolled for at least six units at Cuyamaca College, verify financial need, and complete the general application and essay. Scholarships of $1,000 are available. Application dates are March 25 to May 4, 2024.
Students should ">contact scholarship specialist Shirley Hughes with questions.
In addition, National University partners with the San Diego County Water Authority to offer a 25% tuition reduction scholarship to employees and employees of all member water agencies. The San Diego County Water Authority Tuition Reduction Scholarship benefits working adults who want to reach specific educational goals but find it challenging to fit classes into their busy life. The tuition-reduction scholarship can be applied to most associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs. Click for more information.
Professional association scholarships
Statewide scholarships are available through several organizations.
The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) offers four undergraduate 2024 scholarships, one graduation 2024 scholarship and a fellowship opportunity to qualified applicants attending a University of California or California State University campus. Students must be juniors or seniors pursuing an undergraduate degree in a water-resources related field such as engineering, agriculture, environmental studies, or public administration. Criteria include scholastic achievement and motivation to the vocation of water-resources management.
ACWA began its scholarship programs in 1961 to motivate committed students to join the effort to ensure California’s water quality through sound management policies. The scholarship program is all about investing in future water leaders.
Deadline: March 1, 2024. Application Link. Questions? Call 916-441-4545 or email .
The California-Nevada section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) awards more than $20,000 in scholarships in support of students and professionals pursuing careers in a drinking water-related field. Two $5,000 graduate scholarships, four $2,500 undergraduate scholarships, and two $1,000 scholarships in support of training as a drinking water treatment/distribution operator are available.
Environmental and civil engineers; water, wastewater, and recycling treatment plant operators; distribution system operators; chemists; laboratory technicians; biologists, ecologists, and environmental scientists; and others whose roles support safe and reliable drinking water are all suitable 2024 scholarship candidates.
Deadline: March 15, 2024. Application Link. For information, call 909-481-7200 or email
The Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) Canham Graduate Studies 2024 scholarship provides $25,000 for a graduate student in the water environment field. The scholarship is for education-related expenses such as room and board, tuition, and books. The scholarship may not be used to cover stipends or wages.
The applicant must be a WEF member, complete an online application, and be enrolled in a graduate program. Recipients must commit to working in the water industry for two years following graduation.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Helix-Scholarship-Lily-Martinez-Board-845X450.jpg451845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2024-01-29 18:13:562024-01-29 18:32:482024 Scholarship Applications Open for Aspiring Water Professionals
The Vallecitos Water District honored former staffer and water industry pioneer Dawn McDougle by naming a building in her honor. The McDougle Building, at the Meadowlark Reclamation Facility, celebrates her three decades in the wastewater industry.
McDougle, who retired at the end of 2021, joined district and industry colleagues, friends and family, at a dedication ceremony November 17. Her dog Farley also attended too. Farley was an honorary Vallecitos employee who accompanied her to work each day. The Vallecitos Water District Board of Directors approved the naming of the building in April 2021, but pandemic restrictions delayed a dedication ceremony.
Dawn McDougle stands alongside the plaque naming the administration building at the Meadowlark Reclamation Facility in her honor. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Public Information/Conservation Supervisor Chris Robbins led the initiative to honor McDougle.
“I’ve worked on a lot of satisfying and interesting projects in my 30 years in the water industry, but getting the building named after Dawn McDougle is probably the best thing I’ve done,” said Robbins.
A plaque featuring native flowers was unveiled at the building during the ceremony. Yellow rose cookies were also included because McDougle planted yellow roses at the plant to add a pleasant scent. Custom cookies featured purple pipes watering flowers, symbolizing the use of reclaimed water from the Meadowlark plan used to irrigate landscapes throughout North San Diego County.
Leadership role encouraging women to pursue water and wastewater careers
Dawn McDougle’s dog Farley joined in the dedication ceremony. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
McDougle played a major role in the $30 million expansion and upgrade of the Meadowlark Reclamation Facility, extending its lifespan beyond 2030. The facility produces recycled water for golf courses at La Costa and the Four Seasons Resort Aviara in Carlsbad, several school sites, and Legoland California. McDougle kept the existing plant operating while implementing innovations allowing the facility to increase capacity while at the same time reducing chemical and energy costs. The plant successfully reached its output goal of five million gallons per day.
She started at Vallecitos as an industrial waste technician at a time when few women performed that work. She advanced her career by taking classes and earning certifications – and she helped others by mentoring and coaching them along the way. McDougle says she knew from the first day she arrived she wanted to finish her career at Vallecitos.
“For over 30 years, I have had the honor of being Dawn’s coworker, her supervisor, and most importantly … her friend,” said Vallecitos Water District operations manager Ed Pedrazzi. “Today’s dedication of the building to Dawn is well earned and well deserved.”
(Editor’s note: The Vallecitos Water District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the metropolitan San Diego region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Dawn-McDougle-Dedication-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2022-11-18 16:22:252022-11-18 16:22:25Building Named to Honor Water Industry Pioneer Dawn McDougle
This week marks the 50th Anniversary of the 1972 Clean Water Act, which, among other things, made it a legal requirement to clean up sewage to certain standards before dumping it into rivers or the ocean.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.png00Chelsea Camposhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngChelsea Campos2022-10-20 10:12:342022-10-20 10:46:30As Baby Boomers Retire, The Water Workforce Faces Its Own Drought
The City of Escondido scored wins in three categories at the annual California Water Environment Association awards on January 29. CWEA is California’s oldest and most prominent association of water protection professionals.
Hale Avenue Facility Named San Diego Section Wastewater Plant of the Year
The City of Escondido’s Hale Avenue Resource Recovery Facility, or HARRF, won the 2022 Wastewater Plant of the Year Photo: City of Escondido
The City of Escondido’s Hale Avenue Resource Recovery Facility (HARRF) won the 2022 Wastewater Plant of the Year (Medium Category). The HARRF is designed to treat up to 18 million gallons per day from the City of Escondido and the Rancho Bernardo area of the City of San Diego. The plant operates 24 hours a day, producing recycled water for the City of Escondido, along with organic materials called biosolids for beneficial reuse in Yuma, Arizona as agricultural soil amendments.
Professional staff make use of technology to manage plant operations with real-time information. A significant outcome is the consistent production of high-quality effluent, which allows the HARRF to drastically reduce chemical use in producing recycled water.
The City of Escondido wastewater department continually strives for the most cost-effective and process-minded maintenance program to minimize emergency calls or system failures. Over the past five years, the maintenance department has seen a reduction in emergency callouts by 75% by implementing an aggressive preventative maintenance and testing program.
Collection System of the Year Award
Escondido also won recognition for Collection System of the Year (Medium Category). The City of Escondido has 380 miles of collection system pipelines, dating back to 1928. As the system ages, aggressive maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement are imperative. The 16-person team cleans all 380 miles in the system annually. Older lines at risk of failing get priority replacement.
Where acceptable, crews rehabilitate lines with liners as a relatively inexpensive alternative to digging trenches for complete replacement. The liners have a 25- to 30-year lifespan. In 2021, 1,112 linear feet of pipeline were relined. Open trench replacement work was performed on 450 feet of pipeline.
Jorge Huitron Honored as Laboratory Analyst of the Year
Jorge Huitron (second from right) receives his award as Lab Analyst of the Year. Photo: City of Escondido
Escondido Lab Technician II Jorge Hutiron’s outstanding work won recognition with the Lab Analyst of the Year award.
Huitron conducts complex water and wastewater analyses, from bench chemistry to bacteriological assessments, sample setup, data entry, and clean-up. His work assures all water supplies are safe for users.
Huitron trains both new and seasoned Escondido employees based on four decades of experience. Colleagues comment they learn something new from Huitron, even those with years of experience.
“Incredible asset”
“Jorge has been an incredible asset,” said Ralph Ginese, Supervising Chemist, who nominated Huitron. “There really isn’t anything Jorge does not do. We are thankful to have him working with us.” Ginese said the 66-year-old veteran professional did his work so quietly over the years, it took the coronavirus pandemic to call attention to his effort, expertise, and value as a team player.
The nomination also cites Huitron’s ability to keep morale high during the pandemic through his leadership, teamwork, training, sharing, and empathy, along with ongoing consistency and reliability. “Jorge has a gleam in his eye, pride as he watches his colleagues learn from his experiences,” wrote Ginese in his nomination. “Laughter and smiles cross everyone’s face as he shares his stories of failures and success. Up until last year, this part of Jorge has been hidden. He now encompasses every attribute of what it means to be Laboratory Person of the Year.”
Each of the 20 CWEA award categories honors exceptional CWEA members and California wastewater professionals, facilities, and agencies. The program seeks to recognize outstanding achievements within the wastewater field, improve the professional status of all personnel working in the wastewater industry and related fields and stimulate public awareness of the importance of wastewater treatment to public health and the water environment.
(Editor’s note: The City of Escondido is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the metropolitan San Diego region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Escondido-Lab_Jorge-Huitron-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2022-02-08 09:07:302022-02-08 09:07:30Multiple Water and Wastewater Industry Awards Won by City of Escondido
From her first day on the job at Vallecitos Water District in 1988, Dawn McDougle knew that she wanted to finish her career at the San Marcos-based water agency. McDougle accomplished her goal, officially retiring on December 23, 2021.
McDougle’s dedication, innovation, and commitment to the community have paid off in many ways over three decades, including recognition in 1993 as the California Water Education Association of San Diego Laboratory Person of the Year, and again by CWEA in 2018 as the Supervisor of the Year. But McDougle’s impressive career needed a kickstart from fate.
Lifelong learning is one of Dawn McDougle’s keys to career success. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
McDougle interviewed at the City of Escondido for a meter reader position but didn’t get the position.
“The city called me later and asked if I would be interested in a part-time position as a laboratory technician assistant,” she said. “Of course, I said yes. When I went to the interview at the wastewater treatment plant, I found it very interesting and wanted to know more. I got the job and from there I learned as much as I could from the biologists and chemists.”
From her first job as an Industrial Waste Technician, McDougle was promoted to Laboratory Director. After two years working at the Encina Wastewater Authority, McDougle returned to Vallecitos Water District and was promoted to Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor in 2000, where she remained until retiring at the end of 2021.
Multiple accomplishments benefit the community
At the Meadowlark Reclamation Facility, McDougle played a major role in the $30 million expansion and upgrade of the facility, extending its lifespan beyond 2030. The facility produces recycled water for golf courses at La Costa and the Four Seasons Resort Aviara in Carlsbad, several school sites, and Legoland California. McDougle kept the existing plant operating while implementing innovations allowing it to increase capacity while at the same time reducing chemical and energy costs. The facility successfully reached its output goal of five million gallons per day.
Women did not often pursue water and wastewater careers when Dawn McDougle was originally hired. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
McDougle started at Vallecitos as an industrial waste technician at a time when few women performed this work. She advanced her career by taking classes and earning certifications – and she helped others by mentoring and coaching them along the way. McDougle says she knew from the first day she arrived she wanted to finish her career at Vallecitos.
Lifelong learning key to career success
Lifelong learning is one of Dawn McDougle’s keys to career success. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
“Looking back, the most surprising thing about my career that stands out the most is how our people provided so much support,” said McDougle. “I was always in awe of the great people in this industry. Outsiders don’t understand what goes into keeping operations all moving while keeping the environment protected. They [staff] are always on call no matter when: evenings, weekends, and holidays.”
McDougle said her goal as a supervisor was to share information, but also to learn from her staff as well.
She says her best career advice for others pursuing water and wastewater industry careers is to pursue ongoing education.“Work hard and achieve the highest certifications you can. Listen and learn. There is so much knowledge to be passed down. And keep an open mind.”
Dawn McDougle frequently led tours of the Meadowlark Reclamation Facility for visitors. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
McDougle admits to “pinching myself on how fortunate I am to have been part of this career field, and advance.” Now, McDougle says she plans to spend time with family, travel, play golf and paddleboard, and take up new hobbies.
“As much as I enjoyed my career and being responsible for the facility the last 22 years, it is time for relaxation,” said McDougle.
McDougle said her goal was to transfer all her knowledge to the Meadowlark staff, “not only for them but for the district. It’s my responsibility.”
McDougle’s legacy is a career spent making sure the Vallecitos Water District’s facilities live up to their promise to the community.
(Editor’s note: The Vallecitos Water District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the metropolitan San Diego region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/McDougle-2018-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2022-01-03 13:59:092022-01-04 11:42:49Vallecitos Supervisor Retires After Three Decades of Service
