Technology is wonderful. The tools and processes we have to produce and protect drinking water are amazing. But in the end, people make it all work. That’s the driving principle behind this brand-new magazine, Water System Operator (WSO).
Some of you may have seen the sister publication, Treatment Plant Operator (TPO), written for the wastewater side and entering its fourth year. On the covers and inside, you see people — the operators and managers who turn sewage into clean water. The concept here is the same. We celebrate the people who make sure our cities, towns and villages have reliable, safe supplies of drinking water.
Unsung heroes
One thing you notice in the water business, wastewater or potable, is that the people who take care of the plants, pump stations and piping are incredibly dedicated and extremely capable. They are also proud, despite the fact they get nowhere near the respect and appreciation they deserve. Now it’s our privilege to produce a bimonthly magazine for the people who deliver clear, clean water to the kitchen tap every day.
WSO will deliver information that helps managers and operators in municipal water systems comply with regulations, achieve performance excellence, progress in their careers, share information, and celebrate accomplishments. It’s about the tools and technologies, yes, but first and foremost it’s about and for the people in the profession.
In other words, it’s your magazine. Our mission is to help you do the best job you can by learning from others in plants like yours. Of course, that also means you can share your successes, so that others can learn from your example.
Make it your own
So here’s the offer: Tell us what you’re doing that makes you proud. Have you discovered a technology or operating practice that improves system performance, reduces costs, conserves energy, and contributes to sustainability?
What programs do you have to keep your public informed and on your side? Do you take special measures to keep your grounds beautiful or to make your site friendly to wildlife? Have people in your facility earned promotions? Won awards? Reached milestones in years of service?
Does a member of your operating team stand out as someone who deserves recognition in the industry? What’s going on in your state or regional association?
Whatever you’re doing that’s excellent and would interest others in the business, we’d like to hear about it. Send me a note to editor@wsomag.com and I will get back to you promptly. In the meantime, feel free to visit our website at www.wsomag.com.
This magazine will be largely what you help make it. It will have value to the profession in direct proportion to how much the professionals share, for the good of the order. Let’s do some great things together!
