A Journey of Growth and Leadership: My Path from Water Treatment to Management

From the very beginning of my journey in water and wastewater technology, I knew that this would be a path of constant learning, growth, and adaptation. As an international student with a deep passion for sustainability and technological innovation, my career has evolved into a unique blend of personal and professional experiences. These experiences have been marked by challenges, accomplishments, and an unwavering commitment to the water industry’s mission of providing safe, clean water to communities.

My professional journey began in the field of water treatment. The intricate processes involved in ensuring water quality and managing wastewater effluent were fascinating to me. This early experience led to my work at a large-scale water treatment facility, where I took on the responsibility of overseeing plant operations, taking water samples, analyzing results, and determining optimal chemical feed rates. It was here that I began to truly understand the balance between maintaining water quality and managing plant systems efficiently. Every day was a learning opportunity as I navigated the complexities of water treatment processes.

One of the most pivotal aspects of my role was managing and troubleshooting critical chemical feed systems—systems that utilized chemicals such as Alum, Sodium Hypochlorite, Chlorine, Lime, and Polymers. These systems required a high level of attention to detail and technical expertise to ensure that the water treatment process remained safe and effective. Alongside this, I was tasked with the unloading and proper documentation of chemicals, ensuring that safety protocols were followed to the letter and that operations continued smoothly.

As my technical knowledge grew, so did my responsibility. I became increasingly involved in the maintenance, calibration, and cleaning of essential equipment, such as chlorine analyzers, turbidity meters, pH analyzers, UV reactors, and streaming current detectors. This part of my work helped me develop a keen eye for detail and an understanding of how small issues could escalate if not addressed promptly. I learned the importance of proactive maintenance, troubleshooting, and quick resolution to prevent downtime and ensure continued compliance with regulations.

Beyond the technical aspects of my role, I also began working with the treatment facility’s automated systems, including process computer systems like SCADA and CDACS. These systems provided real-time data and control over the plant’s operations, allowing for more efficient decision-making. Working with these systems broadened my understanding of how technology could enhance operational effectiveness and how crucial it is to stay ahead of technological advancements in the industry.

As I advanced in my career, I recognized that technical expertise alone would not be sufficient to take me to the next level. To truly make an impact in my field, I needed to develop strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills. This realization led me to pursue a Bachelor of Technology degree—a decision that has shaped the trajectory of my career. The program is designed to help students like me become capable leaders in a multicultural, technologically evolving workplace. Through it, I’ve gained valuable insight into managing people and projects effectively while ensuring that sustainability, safety, and technological adaptation remain priorities.

This degree has given me the tools to combine my technical skills with the people skills necessary to lead teams, foster collaboration, and navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing work environment. The journey from being an international student on a work permit to obtaining permanent residency has been an adventure in itself. The process of adapting to a new country and culture while advancing my career has taught me resilience and perseverance. Achieving permanent residency felt like a true milestone, validating my commitment and effort to succeed both professionally and personally.

Today, as my responsibilities grow, I am increasingly trusted with leading projects, mentoring newer team members, and contributing to the development of operational, maintenance, and safety procedures. The future of water treatment requires not only technical expertise but also effective leadership. My role now includes guiding others, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and staying ahead of innovations in the industry. As I take on more responsibilities, I am excited about the potential to combine my technical proficiency with my leadership abilities to make a lasting impact on the sustainability and success of water treatment systems.

Looking back on my journey, I can see how much I have grown—from a student eager to learn about the complexities of water treatment to someone now ready to take on a leadership role in an ever-evolving field. My goal is to not only lead teams but to inspire others, creating an environment where technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration thrive.

The road ahead will no doubt present new challenges, but with the skills I have acquired and the experiences I continue to gain, I am confident that I am on the right path. My journey has only just begun, and I am excited to lead the way in the future of water treatment, ensuring safe, sustainable practices for generations to come.