Leadership Conference for Women in Water and Wastewater

October 23-24, 2024 | Online :: Central Time

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“This conference was so inspiring and very educational. Hopefully this will be an annual conference!” – Environmental Compliance Specialist, City of Alhambra

“EUCI provides quality instructors, who use real world experience to train on relevant and timely Utility Management Topics. In addition, the resources provided, and connections made are worth the investment.” – VP, Director of Operations, Alliance Water Resources

“Women coming together to support each other and lift each other up is so very important!” – SAC Technician, Metropolitan Council

“Time well spent networking and collaborating with like-minded Women of Water.” – Vice President, CSWR

Women, both aspiring to and currently in leadership roles within the water and wastewater industry, face unique workplace challenges such as limited access to mentorship, representation and visibility, overcoming stereotypes and perceptions, and a lack of specialized technical and leadership training. These obstacles can hinder their career growth, effectiveness in their roles, and the successful management of critical infrastructure projects.

The Leadership Conference for Women in Water and Wastewater 2024 addresses these challenges by providing a dedicated platform for women to gain insights from industry experts, develop essential leadership skills, and network with peers.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Gain insights into the current status of the water and wastewater industry and be inspired by industry leaders
2. Embrace industry and personal challenges in order to view failures as growth opportunities
3. Develop strategies for building a supportive network within the water and wastewater industries through best practices and personal experiences shared
4. Enhance leadership effectiveness by developing emotional intelligence skills and mastering crisis management
5. Overcome self-doubt and assert yourself effectively in the water and wastewater workplace by building confidence in your industry-specific skills
6. Incorporate sustainability principles into leadership practices and create a culture of constructive feedback for continuous improvement

Wednesday, October 23, 2024 : Central Time

 

Q&A time will be allotted at the end of each presentation and panel discussion session.

9:00 – 9:30 a.m. :: Keynote

The keynote presenter will begin the conference with a look into the status of the industry and provide some encouraging words for aspiring leaders in water and wastewater roles throughout the country.

Cheryl Porter, Chief Operating Officer – Water and Field Services, Great Lakes Water Authority, and AWWA President

9:30 – 10:15 a.m. :: Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Learn the art of embracing challenges and transforming failures into opportunities for growth.

• Understanding growth mindset vs. fixed mindset
• Overcoming fear of failure
• Tools and metrics to assess personal and team development
• Growth mindset and career advancement

Annalee Munsey, MPA, General Manager, Metropolitan Water District of Salt Lake & Sandy

10:15 – 10:30 a.m. :: Morning Break

10:30 – 11:15 a.m. :: Panel Discussion – Strategies for Building a Supportive Network

Explore best practices and personal experiences for building professional relationships and networks to support career growth and advancement within the water and wastewater industries.

• Common barriers to effective networking and strategies to overcome them
• Tips for initiating and maintaining professional connections
• The role of mentorship and how to find a mentor in the water and wastewater industries

Virginia Walsh, P.G., Ph.D., Senior Project Manager, Chief Hydrogeology Technical Services Division, Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department

Lauren James, Director, Communications, Suburban Water Systems

Kelley Dearing Smith, Vice President of Communications and Marketing, Louisville Water

11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. :: Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

Develop essential emotional intelligence skills to enhance leadership effectiveness and build strong relationships.

• Definition and components of emotional intelligence
• Recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses
• Social skills for effective leadership
• The impact of EI on organizational culture in water and wastewater
• Emerging trends and research in emotional intelligence

Elizabeth Calo, MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, General Manager & Head of Human Resources, South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority

12:00 – 1:00 p.m. :: Lunch Break

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. :: Panel Discussion – Crisis Management and Decision Making

Acquire the skills needed to make sound decisions under pressure and effectively manage crises.

• Types of crises in the water and wastewater industries
• Best practices for internal and external communication during a crisis
• Leadership roles and responsibilities
• Stress management and maintaining composure
• Fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience within the organization

Lisa Marie Harris, Finance Director/Treasurer, San Diego County Water Authority

Amber Beard, MPA, Director of Public Works, City of Colleyville, TX

 

2:00 – 2:30 p.m. :: Building Confidence and Assertiveness

Discover strategies for overcoming self-doubt and asserting yourself confidently in the workplace.

• Recognizing signs of self-doubt and imposter syndrome
• Setting boundaries and standing up for yourself professionally
• Enhancing communication skills to assert yourself confidently; plus body language and non-verbal communication
• Strategies for dealing with criticism and rejection constructively
• Celebrating your successes

Jennifer Sabine, Assistant General Manager, Encina Wastewater Authority

2:30 – 2:45 p.m. :: Afternoon Break

2:45 – 3:15 p.m. :: Interviewing Skills for Success: Building Confidence and Overcoming Self-Doubt

Equip participants with practical interviewing skills to overcome self-doubt and present themselves confidently in the water and wastewater industry. Participants will learn how to build confidence in their industry-specific skills, overcome self-doubt, and assert themselves effectively in interviews.

• Understanding Self-Doubt in Interviews
• Turning Industry Knowledge into Confidence
• Assertiveness in Interviews
• Overcoming Common Interview Challenges
• Confidence Building Techniques

Tiffany Stallworth, Human Resources Manager – Employee Experiences, Clayton County Water Authority

3:15 – 4:00 p.m. :: Panel Discussion – Water and Wastewater Industry Update

Discover the latest opportunities, challenges, and significant changes in the water and wastewater industry.

• State of water and wastewater infrastructure and strategies for modernization
• Mitigation of environmental challenges and ensuring water sustainability
• Benefits of digital transformation in improving operational efficiency and customer service
• Regulatory changes: PFAs, infrastructure aging and funding, cybersecurity, and more

Virginia Walsh, P.G., Ph.D., Senior Project Manager, Chief Hydrogeology Technical Services Division, Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department

Brenna Caudill, Water Filtration Plant Superintendent, Evansville Water and Sewer Utility

Tammy Yates West, Wastewater Regulatory Manager, Austin Water – City of Austin

Elsa Williams, Director for Water Treatment Operations, Toho Water Authority

Thursday, October 24, 2024 : Central Time

 

9:00 – 9:45 a.m. :: Leading with Purpose

Discuss tactics for fostering resilience and adaptability in leadership while maintaining team engagement and continuous improvement in a hybrid workspace. Explore how to lead with intention by:

• Integrating sustainable leadership practices
• Effective management of remote and hybrid teams
• Development of a robust feedback culture

Dr. Irene “Tesha” Okioga, P.E., PhD, DBIA, LEED AP, ENV SP, Director of Engineering Services, Western Virginia Water Authority

9:45 – 10:15 a.m. :: Leading Remote or Hybrid Teams in Water and Wastewater

Explore best practices and potential pitfalls for leading and managing remote teams effectively in a digital workspace.

• Best practices for communication in remote or hybrid teams, including synchronous and asynchronous communication methods
• Addressing remote team members’ well-being, including mental health, work-life balance, and burnout prevention
• Exploring future trends and developments in remote work and digital collaboration

Quisha Light, Customer Services Director, Portland Water Bureau

10:15 – 11:00 a.m. :: Panel Discussion – Building a Culture of Feedback

Discuss the importance of creating a professional culture of constructive feedback to foster continuous learning and improvement.

• Differentiating between constructive feedback and criticism
• Incorporating feedback into professional development plans and performance evaluations
• Feedback across diverse teams within the water and wastewater industry

Heide Harrell, APR, Director of Communications, Central Arkansas Water

Carolynn Revis, PE, Water Resource Group Manager, HDR, Inc

Jean C. Block, Chief Executive Officer, Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority

11:00 – 11:15 a.m. :: Morning Break

11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. :: Panel Discussion – Developing a Personal Leadership Development Plan

Create a roadmap for personal and professional growth and development.

• Self-assessment and reflection
• Establishing Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals for personal and professional development
• Balancing short-term skill development goals with long-term career development objectives
• How personal development contributes to organizational success and effectiveness

Christy Everett, Chief Executive Officer, Grand Strand Water & Sewer Authority

Lynda DiMenna, Vice President, Chief Environmental Officer, American Water

Angela Bricmont, Chief Financial Officer, Denver Water

Amber Beard, MPA, Director of Public Works, City of Colleyville, TX

Amber is the Director of Public Works at the City of Colleyville where she oversees engineering, construction management, streets and drainage, water and wastewater, fleet services and facilities maintenance. She is responsible for an operating budget of $26 million and a capital improvement budget of $58 million. Amber joined the City of Colleyville in September of 2022 with over a decade of experience leading municipal utility organizations.

She previously served as General Manager of the Schertz/Seguin Local Government Corporation, a regional wholesale water utility serving a population of 180,000 where she was responsible for a $19 million operating budget and a capital improvement budget of $165 million. Amber also served as Executive Director of the Cibolo Valley Local Government Corporation where she led the regional water planning process in the acquisition of water rights, permitting and well field design for the utility. She previously served on the South Central Texas Regional Water Planning Group (Region L).

Amber began her career as Developmental Services Manager and Business Manager of the Cibolo Creek Municipal Authority, a regional wholesale wastewater utility serving a population over 100,000 where she oversaw customer contracts and programs supporting infrastructure for commercial, industrial and residential developments. She also oversaw capital projects, finance and human resources and was responsible for an operating budget of $13 million and a capital improvement budget of $40 million. Her private sector experience includes work in the oil and gas industry functioning in business development, operations management and marketing throughout Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma.

Amber holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Tarleton State University. She is a Texas Water Leader through the Texas Water Foundation, a member of the American Public Works Association, the International City/County Management Association, the Texas City Management Association and is actively involved in a Texas animal rescue organization currently serving on their Board of Directors.

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Jean C. Block, Chief Executive Officer, Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority

Jean Block is the Chief Executive Officer of Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority – the largest wastewater utility in the State of Arkansas. She was named CEO in August 2023 and is the 6th CEO in the utility’s history and the first woman and person of color to serve in this role. She is a licensed attorney and practiced law for 23 years prior to becoming CEO. Her last role was Chief Legal Officer at Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority for 7.5 years. Jean is originally from Mill Valley, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds an undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of California at Berkeley and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Kansas School of Law.

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Angela Bricmont, Chief Financial Officer, Denver Water

Angela Montoya Bricmont is the CFO of Denver Water. She manages the financial resources of the Board of Water Commissioners, a 100+ year-old water utility serving 1.5 million customers in the City of Denver and surrounding suburbs. Angela is responsible for accounting, financial planning and performance, enterprise project management, treasury, rates, customer care and the retirement plan. Since joining Denver Water in 2010, Angela has overseen a credit rating upgrade to AAA, implementation of a new water rate structure, issuance of Green Bonds, funding a lead service line removal program at no direct cost to customers.

Prior to Denver Water, Angela worked for several consulting firms providing financial planning and rate setting for utilities. Angela served as Vice President of Rates and Regulatory Matters for Comcast. Angela has a bachelor’s degree in finance and an MBA from the University of Denver. The mayor of Denver appointed Angela to serve on the Denver Urban Renewal Authority Board. She has served on EPA’s Financial Advisory Board since 2020 and was recently appointed to the Advisory Board for the Colorado University Leeds School of Business, Burridge Center for Finance.

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Elizabeth Calo, MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, General Manager & Head of Human Resources, South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority

Elizabeth (Liz) Calo leads the RWA’s Human Resources division, with responsibilities including environmental health, safety, and risk; communications and outreach; talent and employee relations; benefits; and training.

Liz joined the RWA in August 2022 as Senior Director of Human Relations and HR Operations after serving in HR roles with nationally known companies, including NAPA Auto Parts, Ceridian, and The Home Depot. 

Over her extensive career spanning more than two decades in the Human Resources field, she has concentrated on cultivating inventive methods to enhance collaboration within cross-functional, regional talent pools, optimize performance levels, and facilitate business process improvements.

Liz holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix and a Fairfield University certification in HR management and personnel administration.

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Brenna Caudill, Water Filtration Plant Superintendent, Evansville Water and Sewer Utility

Brenna Caudill is the Superintendent of the Evansville Water and Sewer Utility Water Filtration Plant in Evansville, Indiana. She’s previously been employed as the Water Quality Manager and a Laboratory Technician for the utility. Brenna has a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from Georgetown College and a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Louisiana State University. She has been an instructor through Indiana AWWA for water treatment operators and distribution operators for the past four years. Brenna is a new mom and is enjoying raising her daughter Lorena with her spouse Alex.  

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Kelley Dearing Smith, Vice President of Communications and Marketing

Kelley is Louisville Water Company’s Vice President of Communications and Marketing and Past Chair of AWWA’s Public Affairs Council.  In her 25-year career at Louisville Water, Kelley has developed strategic partnerships and communication efforts that build Louisville Water’s brand and highlight the value of water.

Kelley is a member of Louisville Water’s Executive Leadership Team and directs all communications and content marketing, brand development, education and outreach, public affairs, and economic development. 

Kelley has authored a book highlighting Louisville Water’s history and oversaw the development of the “WaterWorks Museum” at the company’s 1860 original pumping station.

Kelley frequently speaks to utilities and businesses on best practices for branding and communication. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism from Eastern Kentucky University and prior to Louisville Water, Kelley worked in television news.

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Lynda DiMenna, Vice President, Chief Environmental Officer, American Water

Lynda DiMenna VP, Chief Environmental Officer, American Water Lynda DiMenna serves as VP, Chief Environmental Officer for American Water. In this role DiMenna drives American Water’s focus on environmental stewardship and to evaluate and improve the company’s current impact on the environment and communities they serve to increase sustainability for the future. Through her expertise in environmental leadership, she will support American Water’s efforts in water quality, water management, system resiliency, as well as other environmental, social, and governance issues.

Prior to her current role, DiMenna served as President of New York American Water. She was the principal external contact for American Water in New York, serving approximately 350,000 people. In this role, she reinforced and strengthened customer, regulatory and local government relationships and drives operational and financial results for the state.

DiMenna joined American Water in 2018, after more than 20 years with Suez (currently Viola NA). She served in multiple roles of increasing responsibility, including Director of Environmental Health Safety Audit, Security and Emergency Preparedness, and Director of Internal Audit, both for Suez North America. Prior to that she was Company Manager for Suez Water Westchester, and she began her career in Operations for Suez New York.

DiMenna serves on the Executive board and Secretary of Jawonio in the Hudson Valley and Chair of their Compliance, Audit and Risk Committee. Lynda also a member of AWWA and NY AWWA Water Utility Council.

DiMenna earned an MBA from the Hagen School of Business, Iona College in New York, and a bachelor’s degree in business management and human resources from Dominican College in New York. She has earned her “D” Distribution System Water Operator and IB Water treatment licenses Operator and certifications.

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Christy Everett, Chief Executive Officer, Grand Strand Water & Sewer Authority

Christy Everett is a native to and resides in Myrtle Beach, SC with her husband and 20-year-old twins, Lewis and Andrea, who are both attending Clemson University pursuing Engineering Degrees.  She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Clemson University in 1995 and her Master of Business Administration from Coastal Carolina University (CCU) in 2008. 

Christy joined Grand Strand Water & Sewer Authority (GSWSA) 22 years ago where she currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer.  She is a licensed Professional Engineer in South Carolina and North Carolina and holds a Water and Sewer Utility Contractor’s license in both states. She is a member of the SC Section of the American Water Works Association, the Water Environment Association of SC, the SC Water Quality Association, and serves as Past-Chairman of the SC Water Utility Council.

Christy has served on the CCU Board of Visitors for the College of Science since 2013 and has recently joined the CCU Board of Visitors for the Wall College of Business. She is also a member of the Coastal Educational Foundation Board.  She was named CCU’s 2018 Outstanding Alumnus of the Year. She was also named the 2022 Woman of the Year by the Conway Chamber of Commerce.

Christy has been very active in the community and currently serves as the Past Chairman for the Board of Directors for the United Way of Horry County, serves as the Board Chairman for the Conway Medical Center Foundation Board, and serves on the Conway Medical Center Board of Trustees.

Christy’s long-term goals include continuing to serve the communities of Horry County and the greater GSWSA service area, provide quality drinking water, reliable wastewater service, promote economic development, and improve the quality of life of its residences, businesses, and visitors. She is passionate about serving the community and being a role model for young women pursuing careers in STEM.

As a native of Horry County, Christy has always had a heart for giving back to the community through philanthropic organizations, volunteering in her church, and helping those in need in the communities.

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Heide Harrell, APR, Director of Communications, Central Arkansas Water

Heide Harrell, APR, is the Director of Communications for Central Arkansas Water. Her primary role is to direct and oversee the utility’s communications department. She brings more than 20 years of industry experience.

She earned a Bachelor of Speech Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master’s in Applied Communication Studies from UA Little Rock.

Heide has the designation of Accredited in Public Relations (APR) by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and is a past president of the Arkansas Chapter of PRSA. In 2023, she was awarded the Crystal Award, the highest award presented by the chapter’s Past Presidents Council, recognizing significant and continuous contributions to the public relations profession and PRSA. She currently serves as Senior Counsel on the PRSA National Board of Directors.

She graduated from the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Greater Little Rock program (Class XXIX), the 2021 Arkansas Business Executive Leadership Academy, and served as the 2023 president of the UA Little Rock Alumni Association. In 2020, Heide was selected as an honoree in the 27th class of Arkansas Business 40 Under 40.

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Lisa Marie Harris, Finance Director/Treasurer, San Diego County Water Authority

Lisa Marie Harris has served as Director of Finance/Treasurer for the San Diego County Water Authority since May 2014. Ms. Harris has over 28 years of financial experience in both the public and private sector. Ms. Harris is responsible for overseeing the Water Authority’s $2.3 billion debt portfolio, the $410 million investment portfolio and responsible for the development of the biannual $1.7 billion operating budget and the setting of annual Rates and Charges. Prior to joining the Water Authority, Ms. Harris served as Chief Deputy Treasurer for the County of San Diego Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office; Executive Director of CA Debt and Investment Advisory Commission (CDIAC); Assistant Deputy Airport Director for the City and County of San Francisco – San Francisco International Airport; and most recently Senior Vice President for Siebert Brandford Shank LLC. Ms. Harris holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from University at California, Berkeley and a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Michigan. Ms. Harris is a past executive board member and has served on the Debt and Nominations Committees for Government Finance Officers Association. Ms. Harris also is a past executive board member for Women in Public Finance (WPF) and founding member and Vice President for the San Diego Chapter of WPF. Since 2021, Ms. Harris also serves as the Vice President and member of the Investment Committee of the City of San Diego Employees Retirement Board (SDCERS).

She is a proud parent of two college graduates. Camille received her BA in Computer Science from UC Berkeley and is working toward her PhD in Computer Science from Georgia Tech University and George received his BA from UC Santa Barbara and his Master’s both in Political Science from Sacramento State while serving on their Division One Track and Field Team.

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Lauren James, Director, Communications, Suburban Water Systems

Lauren James is currently Director, Communications for Suburban Water Systems, which is a privately owned water utility located in eastern Los Angeles County. Lauren is responsible for internal and external communications with customers, stakeholders, community-based organizations, and employees. She is also responsible for the Supplier Diversity and Conservation programs.

Lauren has over 15 years of communications and marketing experience. Lauren joined Suburban in 2015 to support the Covina-based water utility and other subsidiaries of Nexus Water Group. She is focused on building Suburban’s brand through several signature programs including supplier diversity, conservation, community service volunteering, community-based organization, chamber memberships, employee quarterly meetings and events, community sponsorships, and local legislator partnerships.

Lauren has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Public Relations from the University of La Verne.

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Quisha Light, Customer Services Director, Portland Water Bureau

Quisha Light is the Customer Services Director at the Portland Water Bureau, where she oversees the entire Meter-to-Cash process, including billing and customer service for Portland’s sewer, stormwater, and water utilities. Since joining in March 2022, Quisha has been leading her organization through a technological transformation to enhance the customer experience for Portlanders and center data-driven decision-making. She has also gained valuable experience managing a diverse workforce of in-person, hybrid, and remote employees.

Before her tenure at the Water Bureau, Quisha spent over 10 years at Portland General Electric (PGE) in various roles, including Legal, Integrated Resource Planning, Strategy, and Product Development. She successfully launched new clean energy and demand response programs for PGE customers.

Quisha holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of the South and a Juris Doctor from the University of Memphis School of Law. She practiced law in Tennessee for seven years before relocating to Oregon with her family.

Quisha is also deeply committed to community service, actively participating in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and serving on several boards. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watching movies with her family, and playing golf with friends.

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Annalee Munsey, MPA, General Manager, Metropolitan Water District of Salt Lake & Sandy

Annalee Munsey is the General Manager at the Metropolitan Water District of Salt Lake & Sandy. The District was organized in 1935 to provide a reliable water supply for the Salt Lake Valley. In her 17 years with the District, Annalee has deepened her passion for water quality and conservation. She represents the District on the Governor’s Water Conservation team, which is composed of seven water agencies in the state and promotes the wise and efficient use of water for the long-term benefit of the state and its citizens. In 2022, she was appointed an ex-officio commissioner of the Central Wasatch Commission.

Annalee earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in human resources. She recently earned a master’s degree in Public Administration at Brigham Young University. A Utah native, Annalee enjoys hiking, waterskiing, camping, and exploring Utah’s national and state parks. Her husband, Chris, and their four children love the outdoors and share her passion for protecting Utah’s precious water.

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Dr. Irene “Tesha” Okioga, P.E., PhD, DBIA, LEED AP, ENV SP, Director of Engineering Services, Western Virginia Water Authority

Dr. Irene “Tesha” Okioga is the Director of Engineering Services at the Western Virginia Water Authority, where she leads a diverse portfolio that includes design and construction of capital improvement projects, geographic information systems (GIS), planning, modelling, asset management, and development coordination. Prior to this role, she served as a Senior Engineering Project Manager with Charlotte Water, in Charlotte, NC, overseeing several large water and wastewater capital improvement projects and programs with a cumulative capital budget of approximately $1 billion. Her extensive experience spans across multiple sectors and includes engineering design with Black & Veatch; Renewable Energy research with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany, in collaboration with the University of North Carolina at Charlotte; International consultancy with the World Agroforestry Center in Nairobi, Kenya; and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) research with Pure Home Water, in Tamale, Ghana, in Collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Civil and Environmental Engineering Department and the MIT Sloan School of Management.  Dr. Okioga is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in North Carolina and Virginia.  She holds a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED AP) certification, and is a certified Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP) and Design Build Professional (DBIA). Her academic credentials include a Doctorate in Infrastructure and Environmental Systems, a Master’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering, and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering.

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Cheryl Porter, Chief Operating Officer – Water and Field Services, Great Lakes Water Authority, and AWWA President

Cheryl Porter is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Water and Field Services at Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) in Detroit, Michigan. Her career in the water sector began in 1996 as a chemist for the City of Detroit Water and Sewerage Department and elevated to COO by 2014. Since joining the American Water Works Association (AWWA) in 2005, Cheryl has been an active volunteer with AWWA and the Michigan Section of AWWA on various committees and has assumed leadership roles such as the MI-AWWA Board Trustee, AWWA Director-at-Large and AWWA Vice President Board roles. In January 2023, Cheryl was elected by the AWWA Board of Directors in becoming the current AWWA President.

Cheryl holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Michigan, a Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, and an MBA with a concentration in Human Resources from Madonna University.

Cheryl Porter is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Great Lakes Water Authority’s Water and Field Services Area where she oversees five water treatment facilities and water transmission to the Authority’s member partner communities, ensuring GLWA’s water consistently meets and exceeds all quality standards and regulations.

Ms. Porter is an active member of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). Since joining AWWA in 2005, Cheryl has been an active volunteer with AWWA and the Michigan Section of AWWA on various committees and has assumed leadership roles such as the MI-AWWA Board Trustee, AWWA Director-at-Large and AWWA Vice President Board roles. In January 2023, Cheryl was elected by the AWWA Board of Directors in becoming the current AWWA President. In 2017, Crain’s Detroit Business recognized her as one of Detroit’s Women in Leadership.

Ms. Porter provides leadership that’s grounded in experience and manages engineers, field staff and administrative and technical support personnel. Her broad knowledge base in the water service sector began at DWSD as a Junior Chemist. where her dedication yielded eventual advancement to Water Production and Operations Manager. As the COO of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD), she was part of the team that helped establish GLWA in 2016.

Ms. Porter earned her BS degree from the University of Michigan, an MBA with a concentration in Human Resources Management from Madonna University, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Ms. Porter maintains State of Michigan operator certifications for both Water Distribution (S-3) and Complete Treatment (F-1). Under her direction, GLWA’s Water Works Park received the “2019 Directors Award for Water Treatment” from the Partnership for Safe Water (PSW).

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Carolynn Revis, PE, Water Resource Group Manager, HDR, Inc

Cora Revis is a professional engineer with 18 years of experience in various form of water and wastewater engineering. Technically, she specializes in biological nutrient removal for wastewater and water quality permitting.  More recently, she leads the Water Group for HDR’s Montana Area. She has a team of nearly 50 professionals, spread over 6 offices and works on a variety of local and global projects to make clean water possible for communities.  She enjoys the “people side” of engineering and helping teams growth and flourish.

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Jennifer Sabine, Assistant General Manager, Encina Wastewater Authority

Jennifer Sabine joined the Encina Team in 2022 as the Assistant General Manager. Jennifer has over 25 years of public management experience. Prior to joining Encina, Jennifer worked for 10 years at Sweetwater Authority, a public water agency serving over 200,000 customers, as the Assistant General Manager and Interim General Manager. Before that, she worked for 15 years at the City of Encinitas as a Management Analyst, Assistant to the City Manager and Director of Finance. Jennifer earned a bachelor of arts degree in Political Science from the University of Delaware and a Masters of Public Administration with a concentration in municipal finance from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also holds a SWRCB Grade 2 Operator’s license.

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Tiffany Stallworth, Human Resources Manager – Employee Experiences, Clayton County Water Authority

Tiffany Stallworth is a versatile HR professional with 20 years of experience, specializing in recruiting, policy development, benefits administration, performance management, payroll, employee relations and engagement. She is known for her strategic approach to HR, exemplified by her ability to plan and develop employee engagement and culture programs that foster community, inclusion, and award-winning cultures. Tiffany has successfully led internal engagement and pulse survey implementations, providing leadership with valuable insights for positive change. She also offers counsel, guidance, and tools to managers and senior leadership to enhance productivity, performance, and a sense of belonging among employees. Tiffany’s commitment to creating exceptional workplace experiences extend beyond her organization, as she has collaborated with the local school system to develop and implement a High School Apprenticeship Program. Additionally, Tiffany has created an engagement calendar and a GEM (Going the Extra Mile) incentive program, Water Professional Excellence Awards, introduced Tango (electronic gift card rewards), and so much more.

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Virginia Walsh, P.G., Ph.D., Senior Project Manager, Chief Hydrogeology Technical Services Division, Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department

Dr. Walsh has over 18 years experience in hydrologic, geologic, and environmental investigations. She has been Chief of the Hydrogeology Section at Miami- Dade Water and Sewer Department (MDWASD), Miami-Dade County, Florida for the past 7 years. Dr. Walsh received her Ph.D. in Geology from Florida International University in 2012. Dr. Walsh and her staff are responsible for all hydrogeologic investigations for MDWASD, and are involved in the design, operation and maintenance of water production wells and the deep injection well systems at MDWASD. Dr. Walsh is also an adjunct professor at Miami-Dade College in Chemistry and Geology.

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Tammy Yates West, Wastewater Regulatory Manager, Austin Water – City of Austin

Tammy earned her bachelor’s degree in biology and her master’s in environmental planning and management from Louisiana State University. Ms. West has more than 32 years of experience in the environmental field. She began her career as a Water Laboratory Analyst. She moved to the wastewater side as a Pretreatment Inspector with the City of Shreveport. After obtaining her Master’s, she moved to Austin and worked as a contractor in TCEQ’s Leaking Petroleum Storage Tank Reimbursement program. She then found employment with Austin Water as a Pretreatment Compliance Specialist.  She worked her up in the pretreatment program, from Specialist, to Senior Specialist and then to Supervisor. In 2019, she obtained the Wastewater Regulatory Manager position with Austin Water. Since 2019, she has managed 12 wastewater treatment plant permits, three reuse authorizations, and three stormwater permits to ensure compliance is maintained for Austin Water.

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Elsa Williams, Director for Water Treatment Operations, Toho Water Authority

Elsa Williams recently joined Toho Water Authority as the Director for Water Treatment Operations. Toho Water Authority is the largest provider of water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services in Osceola County, Florida. Elsa’s position at Toho provides leadership, oversight, and support for the Water Operations Division, which includes the Water Treatment staff and facilities and the Water Quality Management Team.

Prior to joining Toho Water Authority, Elsa was the Utilities Operations Division Manager of Seminole County Utilities Department. As the Division Manager responsible for the County’s water, wastewater, and reclaim facilities, Elisa led a dedicated workforce of 118 employees to ensure present and future generations have a sufficient supply of high-quality drinking water, safe drinking water distribution, wastewater collection, and the proper treatment and disposal of wastewater.

Elsa holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and is a licensed Civil Engineer in the Philippines. Elsa lives in Seminole County with her husband Wes.

We will be using Microsoft Teams to facilitate your participation in the upcoming event. You do not need to have an existing Teams account in order to participate in the broadcast – the course will play in your browser and you will have the option of using a microphone to speak with the room and ask questions, or type any questions in via the chat window and our on-site representative will relay your question to the instructor.

• Microsoft recommends downloading and installing the Teams app if possible. You may also use the Edge browser or Chrome.
• You will receive a separate email with a unique link to a personalized landing page which will include links to join all sessions of this event.
• If you are using a microphone, please ensure that it is muted until such time as you need to ask a question.
• The remote meeting connection will be open approximately 30 minutes before the start of the course. We encourage you to connect as early as possible in case you experience any unforeseen problems.

Please Note: Confirmed speakers do not need to register and are encouraged to participate in all sessions of the event. If you are a speaker and have any questions please contact our offices at 1.303.770.8800

Please Note: This event is being conducted entirely online. All attendees will connect and attend from their computer, one connection per purchase. For details please see our FAQ

If you are unable to attend at the scheduled date and time, we make recordings available to all attendees for 7 days after the event

REGISTER NOW FOR THIS EVENT:

Leadership Conference for Women in Water and Wastewater

October 23-24, 2024 | Online

Your registration may be transferred to a member of your organization up to 24 hours in advance of the event. Cancellations must be received on or before September 20, 2024 in order to be refunded and will be subject to a US $195.00 processing fee per registrant. No refunds will be made after this date. Cancellations received after this date will create a credit of the tuition (less processing fee) good toward any other EUCI event. This credit will be good for six months from the cancellation date. In the event of non-attendance, all registration fees will be forfeited. In case of conference cancellation, EUCIs liability is limited to refund of the event registration fee only. For more information regarding administrative policies, such as complaints and refunds, please contact our offices at 303-770-8800

Credits

EUCI is accredited by the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and offers IACET CEUs for its learning events that comply with the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Standard. IACET is recognized internationally as a standard development organization and accrediting body that promotes quality of continuing education and training.

EUCI is authorized by IACET to offer 0.8 CEUs for this event.

Verify our IACET accreditation

Who recognizes IACET Credits?

 

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Upon successful completion of this event, program participants interested in receiving CPE credits will receive a certificate of completion.

Course CPE Credits: 9.5
There is no prerequisite for this Course.
Program field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Program Level: Basic
Delivery Method: Group Internet Based
Advanced Preparation: None

EUCI is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its web site: www.nasbaregistry.org

 

Who Should Attend

This event is designed for anyone who wishes to obtain a better understanding of leadership and communications skills, directly related to women in the water or wastewater industries.

• Public Water Systems
• Municipality and/or Sanitation District (Community System)
• Investor Owner Utility
• Wastewater Plant
• Engineering Firm
• Conservation Fund/District
• State Environmental Board or EPA
• Private Water Utilities/Investor-Owned Utilities