My Community; My Responsibility

By Nikita Johnson, Honduras

My host organization was Springfield Water and Sewer Commission (SWSC)/ Veolia, the chance to connect with a public-private organization with a well-structured work system, and a staff that has not just opened its doors to me, but made me feel part of the team throughout my stay. My host Matthew Parkhouse organized a fantastic agenda with activities in which I could share directly with the staff and experience their day-to-day work at the treatment plant.

A good example of this is that I got the chance to assist the New England Water Environment Association (NEWEA, 2024 spring meeting and exhibit), in Newport, RI, where I had the chance to part take in different sessions related to water and sewage treatment. But what really made my day was being an honoree member off the Veolia team “Mass Chaos” in the Operations Challenge competition is a showcase of excellence in wastewater treatment, where skilled teams of professionals compete in a series of timed events.

This are five events that make up the Op challenges:

• 1. Collections Systems: competitors simulate real-world scenarios by inspecting and maintaining sewer collection systems, highlighting their capacity to prevent and address potential issues in the wastewater network.
• 2.Laboratory: In this event, competitors demonstrate their laboratory skills by conducting a series of tests and analyses, ensuring the accurate monitoring and control of wastewater treatment processes.
• 3.Vaughan Maintenance: Teams race against the clock to restore a pump to service, testing their ability to swiftly service critical equipment, ensuring uninterrupted wastewater treatment operations.
• 4.Process Control: Teams showcase their ability to optimize wastewater treatment processes through precise control and adjustment, emphasizing efficiency and environmental stewardship.
• 5.Safety: Safety takes the forefront as teams demonstrate their knowledge and adherence to rigorous safety protocols, ensuring the well-being of both workers and the environment.

I felt impressed by the trust the team members have in each other and the collaborative environment they create. Everyone demonstrated from their own perspective what it means to be a Veolia employee, with work balance and striving together towards the same end. I have learned a lot in my time at my host organization but one education program really stands out to me that is the “Pipeline Program”. I’m looking to adapt this amazing innovative approach to raising awareness in our younger generation.