Lasting Impact: A Journey of Growth in Water Operations
For Karen Lewis, a career in water operations was not a straight path but a rewarding journey filled with opportunity, hard work, and the encouragement of those who believed in her potential.
Behind the Scenes of Water Operations
Karen’s career with Pasco County began in Pest Control, marking the start of her role in public service. Encouraged by a friend, she transitioned into the County’s Grounds Maintenance department and remained there for nearly 5 years. It was during this time that Mack Washington, supervisor for Water Operations, opened a training spot and challenged Karen to pursue it. Recognizing a valuable opportunity for growth, Karen decided to take that step, a decision that profoundly influenced her future.
Today, Karen is a Lead Water Operator, a role that brings a unique set of responsibilities each day. Some days are filled with meetings and paperwork, while other days Karen is in the field, addressing equipment issues, consulting with contractors, or making chemical adjustments. As one of 3 Lead Water Operators, Karen plays a key role in keeping operations running smoothly. The team of operators each have their own area of focus but frequently step in and support each other in all aspects of the job, from processing payroll and meeting with contractors to assisting with chemical analysis and preparing monthly operating reports.
Recognized Excellence
Karen’s expertise and hard work were recognized when she received the 2024 Marvin N. Kaden Outstanding Water Treatment Plant Operator award, a major accomplishment in her career. While the recognition was unexpected, it was deeply meaningful to Karen to be honored by her peers in the industry. She made sure to celebrate not just her own achievements, but the team effort and support from colleagues, friends, and family who contributed to her success.
“Collated team achievements are much more mesmerizing than the partial achievements achieved through alone efforts, and I can’t thank everyone enough for their encouragement and support through my career,” said Karen.
The Impact of Training and Mentorship
Karen traces much of her growth and confidence as a water operator back to training from the UF TREEO Center. She first took a correspondence course through TREEO to prepare for her Water Operators C license, supported by instructors who encouraged her every step of the way. Later, a SCADA/Electrical course coordinated by Areiole Williams further broadened her skills and expertise.
One instructor who made a particularly strong impact on Karen’s education was Ron Trygar. His ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and actionable way meant many water operator students, including Karen, were able to pass their state exams and become licensed. His expertise and willingness to help, whether in person or by email, made a huge difference in the success of many future water treatment professionals.
Karen speaks highly of Ron’s ability to support and guide his students: “Ron Trygar is instrumental in all our operators passing their exams and retaining the information in his courses. We have asked him in emails and in person at conferences to help with a math problem that was stumping us, and he would have an answer in no time and explain it so we could understand the formula.”
Through practical training, TREEO equips water operators to handle the challenges of the field. Karen emphasizes the center’s extensive training options, noting that “TREEO has such good preparatory courses for all aspects of water, distribution, SCADA, confined space, leadership, and many others.” Pasco County utilizes these programs to support its trainees and licensed operators with the knowledge and confidence they need to be successful in their certifications and day-to-day responsibilities.
Karen’s career underscores the power of education, opportunity, and perseverance. From her start in Pest Control to her role today as Lead Water Operator, her journey highlights how hard work, training, and a strong support network can help foster professional growth and success.
Interested in taking a Water and Wastewater course? View the course calendar here.
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