It is a privilege to introduce myself as the new executive administrator of the National Association of Wastewater Transporters. My new role with NAWT will allow me to continue the momentum past director Tom Ferrero provided for many years.

We will continue to maintain and promote a professional and public image for NAWT through education to members and the public. We will strive to build upon the existing association and provide a nationwide network for exchanging ideas and opportunities to improve the industry and the environment.

I intend to work with Jim Anderson to provide the industry with quality education and training that is readily accessible. We will explore online training and other opportunities that might enhance and expand the availability of NAWT courses, workshops and seminars. My experience in government will help enhance bureaucratic relationships and advocate policies and legislation that are effective and sensible. I will convey membership importance and create growth by exploring new association benefits and expressing how each and every individual, company, agency and association can provide strength and unity through NAWT.

Please make use of my email (info@nawt.org) or the toll-free number, 800/236-6298, as an open line of communication to let us know what we’re doing right or what we could be doing better. This will ensure NAWT is a productive network in our industry. I am truly grateful to all those who have reached out to extend a warm welcome and a helping hand; I’m honored to be a part of such a supportive and professional group of people.

I hope to have the opportunity to meet you all in person very soon!

Scholarship Question

Our industry is in the business of helping people. Either we are helping them maintain their onsite wastewater treatment system or we are getting them out of trouble when the system fails and they have a backup in the house or puddle in the yard. We are usually welcomed like a long lost friend when we arrive in a customer’s driveway. Some of our relationships last for decades, through generations of our family businesses.

So what happens when the news you give the client makes them happy to see you leave? Sometimes the report we give them isn’t what they want to hear! If it is bad news, it is going to cost them money and that would make any of us unhappy.

The 2012 William Hapchuk Memorial Scholarship question is: “How would you handle giving a client the news that they need a new septic system?” You can find an application on the NAWT website at www.nawt.org/resources/scholarship.shtml. Applications are due by Jan. 1, 2012. Only full-time college students by the fall of 2012 are eligible for the scholarship. Participation is open to students majoring in environmental science, life sciences or related curriculum.

California Workshop Registration

October is right around the corner and you should be thinking about registering to attend the partnered, NAWT and California Onsite Wastewater Association, Waste Treatment Workshop and Symposium, Oct. 6-7, in Sutter Creek, Calif. For workshop details and registration information, go to www.nawt.org. Hope to see you there.