The Unsung Heroes of the Water Industry

Hi Everyone,

I've observed men and women working tirelessly on water main breaks and sewer collapses, dedicating their efforts to their communities. Many people don't fully understand the extensive training and education required to be a water and wastewater operator.

The responsibilities are, quite literally, matters of life and death. Without safe drinking water, we risk illness; without effective wastewater treatment, our environment suffers, again posing health risks. This observation also underscores the interconnectedness of public works with first responders. Without police, crime could ravage our communities.

Without fire and EMS services, those trapped or injured might not receive immediate medical attention. Similarly, without public works, our communities wouldn't exist. Therefore, I was pleased to have John Mussulman on our podcast show to help raise awareness of the challenges that water operators and public works teams face every day on the job. I hope you enjoy the episode.

Episode Recap:

Welcome to the Infrastructure Hot Seat podcast, where we delve into the challenges and solutions surrounding infrastructure in America. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with John Mussulman, a water operations supervisor from Tucson, Arizona. John brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, having worked in various roles within the water industry for over 23 years. In this article, we will explore some of the key insights and perspectives shared by John during our conversation.

The Importance of Water Infrastructure

One of the recurring themes in our discussion with John was the vital role that water infrastructure plays in our communities. He highlighted the need for greater public awareness and appreciation of the work done by water providers. John emphasized that without a functioning water system, communities would not be able to thrive. He stated, "There is no community without a water system. If there's no water, nobody's going to live where you want to live."

John also touched on the challenges faced by water providers in maintaining and improving infrastructure. He noted that the industry often goes unnoticed until there is a problem, such as a water main break or a boil water notice. He expressed the need for a better balance between the public's perception of water providers and the recognition of their essential role in society.

The Need for Education and Training

Throughout his career, John has witnessed the evolution of the water industry and the increasing complexity of the work involved. He highlighted the importance of education and training in equipping water professionals with the necessary skills to navigate these challenges. John shared his own journey, starting as a meter reader and gradually progressing to his current role as a water operations supervisor.

He acknowledged that the early stages of his career lacked formal education and relied on informal learning through hands-on experience. However, he emphasized the value of continuous learning and improvement. John mentioned that he pursued an associate's degree through a union benefit and obtained water certifications to enhance his knowledge and advance his career.

The Intersection of Technology and Water Operations

As technology continues to advance, the water industry is also embracing new tools and systems to improve operations. John discussed the impact of technology on water meter reading, highlighting the shift from manual reads to automated meter reading (AMR) systems. He acknowledged the benefits of AMR in terms of efficiency and accuracy but also noted the challenges associated with software updates and user interfaces.

John emphasized the need for user-friendly software that aligns with the specific needs of water operators. He shared his experience with software updates causing temporary disruptions in productivity and highlighted the importance of striking a balance between technological advancements and practical usability.

The Role of Operators in Infrastructure

John's insights shed light on the critical role played by water operators in maintaining and operating water systems. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the efforts of field operators who respond to emergencies and ensure the uninterrupted flow of water. John stated, "Put a spotlight on our field guys, the guys who come out there when the street blows up because a water main broke. I definitely want those guys to get way more credit."

He also highlighted the dangers faced by operators in the field, emphasizing the need for safety measures and public awareness. John expressed his hope for attracting and retaining more individuals in the water industry, particularly in field operations, to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals.

The Future Outlook

Looking ahead, John expressed optimism about the future of the water industry. He mentioned the recent hiring of new utility technicians and his excitement to see them trained and integrated into the workforce. John emphasized the need for increased public awareness and gratitude for water providers, as well as the importance of ongoing education and training for water professionals.

He also acknowledged the ongoing advancements in technology and the potential for further improvements in the industry. John highlighted the need for collaboration between operators and engineers to ensure that infrastructure designs are practical, efficient, and easy to maintain.

In conclusion, John Musselman's insights provide valuable perspectives on the water industry and the challenges faced by water providers. His emphasis on public awareness, education, and the role of operators highlights the need for a holistic approach to infrastructure development and maintenance. By recognizing the unsung heroes of the water industry and embracing technological advancements, we can ensure the continued provision of safe and reliable water to our communities.

Check out the Full Episode: Click Image

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Chad Smeltzer

CEO Bidcurement & The Infrastructure Network

Host The Infrastructure Hot Seat Podcast