CWEA (California Water Environment Association)

"The EPA workshops were very informative, understanding what auditors look for in their inspections is very insightful." P3S Attendee (2024) Catch the Pretreatment 101 track with Amelia Whitson and Jim Polek with EPA and Chuck Durham with PG Environmental, a division of ERG at the upcoming P3S conference in San Jose. With the theme We Are All One, this event highlights how collaboration and shared expertise drive innovation and progress in water management. Together, let’s shape the future of our water environment. Join us in San Jose for P3S25, February 3-5. Details can be found at p3s25.cwea.org. Early bird registration rates end on December 9. Photos of P3S24 Attendees (and service dogs) provided by Kelly Sullivan

At CWEA, we proudly empower over 10,000 wastewater professionals who work tirelessly to protect California’s most critical resource: water. From operators to lab techs to engineers, these professionals ensure that wastewater systems function smoothly, safeguarding public health and the environment. Today, we join the global community in recognizing the importance of sanitation and the essential role wastewater professionals play in turning challenges into solutions. Let’s celebrate their work and commitment to shaping the future of water. Happy World Toilet Day! #WorldToiletDay

Highlighting Denis Pollak, CWEA Past President and Champion of Wastewater for today's #MemberMonday. This week, CWEA celebrates Denis Pollak, whose 52-year journey exemplifies dedication and leadership in the wastewater profession. Denis’s story began in 1991 as a founding member of the CWEA Southern Sections Collection System Committee. He later joined the San Diego Section Board, serving as Section President, and in 2003, became CWEA State President, championing the growth of wastewater professionals across California. A Grade IV Collection System Operator and Mechanical Technologist, Denis’s expertise and service have left a lasting impact on CWEA’s mission and community. Thank you, Denis, for your tireless service and the inspiration you bring to us all! join.cwea.org #volunteer #volunteering #membermonday #workforwater

CWEA presents a comprehensive training program geared toward wastewater operators just entering the industry. Participants will be equipped with the foundational knowledge required for effective management of wastewater collection systems. This full-day workshop will broadly cover the definitions, key terms, principles, and best practices of categories required in the CWEA Collection System Maintenance Grade 1 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA). Dec. 10 Hilton Garden Inn San Diego $225 CWEA Member Price $285 Non-member Price https://lnkd.in/e7mcHwnC Earn up to 7.8 towards your Collection System Maintenance Certification. SPEAKER: William Kleinau, Managing Partner with Engineered Utility Solutions and Collection Systems Manager for Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD), oversees 15 staff managing sewer infrastructure across six cities. With 14 years in government, including Navy experience in defense systems maintenance, he led water and sewer teams in San Gabriel and Alhambra and volunteers with CWEA and MSA.

CWEA is thrilled to announce that registration for the 52nd Annual Pretreatment, Pollution Prevention, and Stormwater Conference is now open! This year, we’re gathering at the historic Hayes Mansion in San Jose under the theme, 'We Are All One.' Join us for this inspiring event that connects, educates, and unites our community. Curious about what's on the agenda? Visit p3s25.cwea.org now. Here's a glimpse of last year's conference, P3S24, captured by Kelly Sullivan. See you in San Jose from Feb 3-5! #WorkForWater #PollutionPrevention #Stormwater #Pretreatment

CWEA proudly honors and thanks all of our members who have served. Your dedication and sacrifice have strengthened our communities and our industry. We are grateful for your service and your commitment to protecting California’s most essential resource. Happy Veterans Day! Our office will be closed today.

#MemberMonday Spotlight: John Vogel, Ross Valley Sanitary District CWEA Technical Certification Program Chair CWEA Technical Certification Program (TCP) Chair, John Vogel, is passionate about the value certifications bring to the water profession. CWEA's TCP program continues to grow, with a record 7,185 professionals certified! Through CWEA’s commitment to continuous updates, certifications set a high standard, advancing workforce safety, competency, and agency excellence across California. John’s message: certifications build a skilled community, ready to tackle the future. Learn more about John's role as chair and the importance of CWEA certifications and their impact statewide. https://bit.ly/3YQ3nOH Photo by Sal Ochoa, Ross Valley Sanitary District winning the 2022-23 Collection System of the Year Award. #volunteer #workforwater #cawaterjobs

Learn directly from experts with decades of experience through CWEA’s on-demand Cert Prep classes, designed to set you up for success in the field. Listen to real-life examples and insights from experienced collection system professionals working in the field. https://lnkd.in/ghXNTQRK Meet the Faculty Harry Bessa – With 24 years at the City of Huntington Beach, Harry rose from entry-level to Lead Wastewater Worker, now overseeing critical lift station operations and ensuring efficient wastewater pumping across 27 stations. Stephen Miksis – A 20-year veteran in wastewater management, Stephen is the O&M Manager at Ross Valley Sanitary District, specializing in pipeline maintenance, condition assessments, and data-driven strategies for capital improvements. Sergio Ramirez – Bringing nearly 30 years of expertise as the General Manager at West Bay Sanitary District, Sergio leads operations in project management, safety, and compliance. A dedicated CWEA member, he also teaches for the Technical Certification Program. #collectionsystem #certprep #onlinetraining #cawater Photos provided by the speakers and Adobe Stock

Are you part of an industrial facility that’s leading the way in environmental stewardship? Now’s your chance to gain statewide recognition for your efforts! The Facility of the Year (FOTY) Award honors industrial users committed to proactively protecting California’s water environment through innovative, sustainable practices. With categories for both large and small industries in Northern and Southern California, this award highlights outstanding achievements in pollution prevention, waste minimization, water recycling, and more. Winners receive an engraved plaque, with runners-up recognized with Certificates of Merit. Apply by November 15, 2024 to showcase your team’s accomplishments and inspire others in the industry! https://lnkd.in/gyaDWAAq Photos from 2024 by Kelly Sullivan

Chris Newton is a powerful advocate for all collection operators – from local beginnings to serving on CWEA’s State Board, he’s championing voices across California! Starting out as an Operator 1, Chris rose to become Operations Superintendent at South Coast Water District, always keeping the operator’s perspective front and center. Discover his journey, insights, and commitment to our industry. Check out his full story here https://bit.ly/4eZwi8N! #WaterHeroes #operator #membermonday Photo by SCWD