Elizabeth “Liz” Kramer turned a degree in history into work on innovative energy and resource recovery projects for her hometown of St. Cloud, Minnesota.
After college, she took a part-time administrative job with the city. That evolved, seven years ago, into a full-time position as sustainability coordinator. She’s active in the Central States Water Environment Association, chairing the Operations Safety and Laboratory Committee and planning the Innovative Approaches to Wastewater Operations Conference.
Her influences: We have an incredible team here. My supervisor Emma Larson is great. Tracy Hodel, recently promoted to city administrator, was my mentor when I started. She has shepherded a number of sustainability projects and has taught me a lot.
On the job: My work intersects with the St. Cloud Nutrient, Energy and Water Recovery Facility. We do a ton of energy-efficiency and renewable energy projects, including our anaerobic digesters that we feed with byproducts from industry to produce biogas for our generators. I also work on grants and on public education for wastewater, drinking water and stormwater.
What makes it exciting: It’s the impact we have on the community, providing public health and sustainability services and general convenience. And we’ve done a number of projects that are the first of their kind, like our nutrient recovery and a green hydrogen project we’re working on right now.
Sources of pride: When folks come to the facility and say, ‘I never knew you were doing this; this is so cool!’ It’s a validation that we can help people understand the incredible piece of the modern world that is water and wastewater treatment. Meanwhile we’re doing advanced projects that provide a basis of knowledge for others around the country.
Looking ahead: I’d like to continue working in public services and public education. There are many energy and sustainability projects in the wastewater field that people would find really interesting. I love to enhance public knowledge of innovations that can push treatment facilities beyond doing what’s required to meet their permits.
Advice to young professionals: It’s vital to be open to learning new things and to take advantage of opportunities. Get involved in your professional organizations. There are many ways to contribute. You can meet some really incredible people and find avenues to advance your career.
The boss’s view: Whether working on solar projects, energy tracking or community outreach, Liz consistently goes above and beyond. Her dedication, professionalism and collaborative spirit make her an invaluable team member. Her ability to communicate technical information in a clear, public-facing manner is truly exceptional.
— Emma Larson, Assistant Public Utilities Director
