What Type Of Person Thrives In The Wastewater Treatment Industry, According To A Communications And Human Resources Manager At Goleta Sanitary District
Laura, a Communications and Human Resources Manager at Goleta Sanitary District, highlights the importance of environmental consciousness and innovative problem-solving skills in the wastewater treatment industry, stating that "a team of folks who are very focused on adapting to problems and problem-solving" is crucial. The industry's unique challenges, such as managing fluctuating solid concentrations impacting the delicate biological processes, require adaptability and a "delicate hand," creating opportunities for those with diverse skill sets, from science and math backgrounds to strong communication skills.
Problem-solving, Environmental consciousness, Adaptability, Teamwork, Innovation
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
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Traits
Laura Romano
Communications and Human Resources Manager
Goleta Sanitary District
University of CA, Santa Cruz, Prefer not to say!
Calif. Lutheran Masters in Public Policy & Administration
History, Art History
Food, Beverages & Alcohol, Government & Public Sector
Communication and Marketing
Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. A passion for environmental protection and sustainability is crucial in this industry. The work involves innovative solutions to complex challenges related to water treatment and resource management.
2. Problem-solving skills and adaptability are highly valued. The industry requires professionals who can think creatively and find solutions to unexpected issues in wastewater treatment processes.
3. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are also important assets, as collaboration and teamwork are essential for success in this field. There is also a need for individuals who are motivated to grow and adapt to challenges within the field
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
Caring about the environment is extremely important. Our staff thrives on innovation and thinking outside the box to come up with solutions.
One example is here in Santa Barbara County. We have many environmentally minded residents, likely more so than in most other communities. The cutting edge of the environmental movement really happened here, and Earth Day started after an oil spill in Santa Barbara.
When the first droughts began occurring, people were very mindful of not wasting water. They would not flush as often or let their sinks run. While these actions are great for saving water, they complicate the treatment process.
Even with less water running down the sink, the same amount of solids is still being generated. This means the percentage of solid material coming into the treatment plant has a higher concentration than it previously did. Our industry's methods for treating this require a very delicate hand.
We have many "good bugs," bacteria that help break down nasty things in wastewater. If one thing gets out of balance, it can throw off the whole process, which halts everything. We cannot discharge to the ocean or produce recycled water if we aren't removing all the dangerous contaminants.
This includes E. coli, cholera, and many other scary diseases that threaten the public. We need to delicately manage what's called influent, the stuff that comes to us via the pipes everyone connects to.
Having a team that is focused on adapting to problems, problem-solving, and finding ways to improve is very important. We aim to replicate what nature does, but at an exaggerated pace.
If you enjoy thinking outside the box, solving problems and challenges, care about the environment and society, and perhaps like science and are good with math, there's a place for you here. Even if you have a different skill, like being a people person, this industry offers a terrific field with many opportunities.
Many people are retiring, creating a lot of openings for motivated individuals who want to grow. It's a place where you can learn, innovate, and take on new skills and responsibilities. This is essentially what we're looking for.
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