Every month I’ve been grateful for these 500 words to say what’s on my mind and educate the readers of Municipal Sewer & Water on the key issues facing NASSCO, the organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of underground utilities.
I’ve spoken with many people, and it’s always nice to hear that folks are reading what I write — or want to listen to what I have to say. Many people tell me they like this column because it gives them a nice variety of information.
During the last two years, I’ve covered many topics: consent decrees, inspector training, negative selling, public education and much more. I’ve also covered key highlights of our organization. Mem-bers and nonmembers like the quick read this column provides. We have so much happening at NASSCO that it can be a challenge to cover with the highlights in this space, but once again I’ll do my best.
The year is off to a great start with new president Brad Dutruch, who is focused on moving many in-development NASSCO projects to completion. Some exciting highlights of what’s ahead include:
• Launch of the Lateral Assess-ment and Certification Pro-gram (LACP) Web site training and local area testing.
• New version of the Manhole Assessment and Certification Program (MACP).
• Pipeline Assessment and Cer-tification Program (PACP) advanced inspection.
• Jetter Awareness Video — designed for use in hiring operators and in marketing efforts. It effectively displays the use of combination jet/ vacuum trucks and the best ways to clean sanitary and storm sewer lines.
• Updated Smoke Testing Per-formance Specification.
• Updated Pipe Bursting Per-formance Specification.
I announced my plans for retire-ment last fall, setting my departure date to follow the NASSCO Annual Meeting in February. Since I made this announcement and an accompanying call for my replacement, I’ve been honored to receive great feedback throughout the industry. I’m also pleased to see such a strong pool of candidates in an industry that was once so small.
It’s only natural when you’ve been in the industry as long as I have to look at the sea of faces, at industry events and professional activities, and see the tremendous growth and the new generation being positioned for leadership.
Growth in any industry is directly related to those who contribute and help sustain it. One example is the Jeffery D. Ralston Scholarship Award. This scholarship is given annually by NASSCO to college students who are working in the industry. This year, the board of directors voted to add two additional $1,000 scholarships. Funds for the scholarships come directly from NASSCO members’ donations and fundraising efforts.
Our organization is truly moving forward in a positive way, building leaders and investing in our industry. I want to remind all readers to get involved in our organization, mentor your younger colleagues, and support programs that will help us maintain quality work and quality people. You will find these efforts truly rewarding.
I’ve been so pleased to serve the industry that I entered 23 years ago. I can’t think of another opportunity where I would have gained such knowledge and insight. To be able to serve as executive director and give back to the industry has been a gift. During the coming months, I will keep you updated on key topics affecting our industry and what NASSCO is doing. As always, I love hearing from readers. Feel free to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.
Irvin Gemora is executive director of NASSCO. He can be reached at director@nassco.org. The NASSCO headquarters is at 11521 Cronridge Dr., Suite J, Owings Mills, MD 21117.
