It’s an absolute privilege to be the latest editor of Pumper.

I am excited for the opportunity to continue the legacy that this publication has established over its decades of existence. Pumper has a rich history both within the pages and thanks to the editor who has put everything together for the past 19 years.

So before anything else, I’d like to acknowledge the person handing off the baton. Jim Kneiszel put a lot into this publication, and the quality of the magazine speaks to that. I’ve got my work cut out for me following in his footsteps, but I am ready for the chance. Jim has mentored me throughout my time here as a writer and editor, and I would like to thank him for his years of editing this magazine, and for his guidance. 

Background

This publication will always be about you, but I’ll provide a little background about myself so you know who you’re working with. 

My journey to Pumper magazine wasn’t exactly a straightforward one. I started working for COLE in late 2019, and prior to that a biology degree landed me a job in aquaponics — a form of indoor agriculture that combines farming fish and soilless food crop culture in one integrated system.

Looking further back, I grew up with COLE Publishing. My mom landed a job as a designer for the company in 2000, and over the years I would spend some time in the office and was even lucky enough to travel to Nashville for the 25th anniversary of the Liquid Waste Hauler’s Equipment & Trade Show (now the WWETT Show). From the perspective of a 13-year-old, it was an eye-opening experience. 

Growing up around the team here showed me how tight-knit the company was. They were friends that worked toward a joint goal of providing a needed service. So when a job offer was put in front of me to join the team, I happily accepted. 

Things learned

Since then, I have been to several more WWETT shows and have had the privilege of interviewing and speaking with many manufacturers and contractors. I’ve come to realize the COLE business model was a great representation of this industry as a whole — a group of like-minded folk, who take a lot of pride in what they do, working together to provide an always needed service that receives not near enough recognition. Every year at the show, I see thousands of individuals from across the country come together and treat each other like one giant family.

I’ve learned a lot since 2019. Not only about the job you perform and the tools you use to do it, but about the overarching themes that seem to be common among the prolific business owners.

There is no doubt that those who choose to work together and learn from other professionals, are active in local organizations and those who are open to new ideas are not only successful, they are happier. They radiate a sense of pride for what they do and how they contribute to the bigger picture of the industry.

Something else that’s very apparent is that those who are successful aren’t afraid to work, and work hard.

In this month’s contractor profile, Roger Marquez shares the journey that led him to pick up the hose. It wasn’t easy. After losing his job with a family at home to support, he started Bay Powerwash & Pumping and told himself failing wasn’t an option. He did his research, made a plan and put himself out there, resulting in a successful and growing business.

Intentions

Pumper exists to serve contractors, owners and managers, an ideal Jim upheld to the highest standards always asking, “How can this magazine best help the reader?” I promise to carry on that way of thinking with every issue. 

I’ve got my work cut out for me, but like Marquez, failing is not an option. In comparison, this new role I take on as editor is nowhere near as daunting as starting a new business from scratch, but it’s new to me and the path I take will be similar to his.

I will do my research, ask for help when needed, always challenge myself to improve, and like you all do, I promise to work hard. I will continue to bring compelling stories from successful contractors that provide educational and helpful information. I will make sure you get content of value and I will always be open to feedback, ideas, conversation and questions. 

With every issue, I will focus on continuing to be a strong advocate for the environmental services you provide. It’s extremely important to me that people don’t just see what you do as a dirty job, but one that keeps our communities clean and healthy, and protects our ecosystems. 

So with that and in the spirit of this magazine using industry experts to teach, I will ask you what advice do you have for me? What do you want and expect from me as the editor, and how can I best serve you? 

Thanks for reading. I am looking forward to working with and learning from all of you over the years.