My path into the industry began in 1997 at the City of Weatherford, working at an 8-MGD package surface water plant. Like many of you, I started with more questions than answers, but I was surrounded by mentors who believed in developing people. My employers supported my license progression, my attendance at training, and my involvement with TWUA. Those early investments shaped my career and my commitment to lifelong learning.

In 2005, I moved to Fort Worth, where I had the privilege of working at all five of their water treatment plants. Each facility offered new challenges and opportunities to grow technically and as a leader. In 2019, I joined the City of Mansfield as Treatment Plant Manager. Today, we operate a 45-MGD conventional and microfiltration surface water plant and are in the midst of an expansion to 62-MGD. These experiences have strengthened my conviction that our profession—both water and wastewater—is critical to public health, environmental stewardship, and quality of life in our communities.

Along the way, I earned my Class A Water Operator license after completing my formal education in science with a Bachelor of Science in Biology (specializing in Cellular Physiology) and a second major in Chemistry. This blend of practical field experience and academic training informs how I approach problems, build teams, and develop future operators.

I also want to share something even more foundational to who I am. In 1975, I chose Jesus as my Salvation. I am a disciple who has trusted Jesus by faith, is following and being transformed by Him, and is on mission to lead others to do the same. My faith guides my values and my approach to leadership—seeking to serve rather than to be served, to listen before I speak, and to encourage others to reach their full potential. While our association is professionally focused and welcomes people from every background, my own journey would be incomplete without acknowledging the faith that has shaped my character and purpose.

From the start of my career, TWUA has been more than just a training provider—it has been a community for water and wastewater professionals. I began in the Twin Basins District, eventually serving as Vice President before moving to the North Central Texas District. In 2017, I was elected as the Member at Large for the North Central Texas Regional School and later served as Chairman during the 75th Annual School in 2022. Today, I continue to serve as the Robert McMillion Endowment Fund Representative for the region. This is the beginning of my third year on the Management Committee, and I now have the privilege of serving as your President.

These roles have given me a front-row seat to TWUA’s strengths—our people, our technical training, and our tradition of volunteerism. They have also shown me where we can improve and how much opportunity we have to expand our impact across both the water and wastewater sectors.

My heart for service extends beyond the workplace and the association. I serve as a deacon at my church and have had the joy of teaching classes for every age group—from four-year-olds to young single adults—as well as leading financial classes that help families steward their resources wisely.

I also volunteer with Texans On Mission for Disaster Relief and with Water Impact Ministries. Through Disaster Relief, I’ve been able to provide practical help during times of tragedy—serving hot, nutritious meals, offering access to showers and laundry services, and working as part of a chainsaw team to move debris and damaged trees from homes. We clean out and repair homes damaged by floods and fire. Perhaps most importantly, we pray with and encourage survivors, offering hope for better days after the storm. These experiences remind me daily of the power of hands-on service and compassion, and they continually sharpen my perspective on what it means to be a servant-leader.

Outside of work and TWUA, I am married with three wonderful daughters who keep life full and joyful. I love to be outside doing just about anything. In my younger days, I enjoyed technical rock climbing and frozen waterfall climbing. Today, I still seek adventure—just at a different pace. I throw on an ultralight backpack and go on section hikes. My current goal is to hike the John Muir Trail southbound from Yosemite to Mount Whitney, a 223-mile trek planned for August 2026. Long hikes remind me of our profession: the importance of preparation, teamwork, perseverance, and appreciating the journey as much as the destination.

As your President, it is my desire to meet as many of you as I can this year and hear your story and your vision for TWUA. Don’t be afraid to come say hi at conferences, regional schools, or district meetings. Drop me a line, send an email, or share your ideas on how TWUA can serve you better. You are important to me and to the success of TWUA.