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Water treatment plant supervisor recognized at state level
The supervisor of Western Carolina’s 45-year-old water treatment plant, which has repeatedly exceeded all federal and state regulations for water quality, has been recognized at the state level for excellence. Kristy Maddy, a water plant operator at WCU since 1999 and supervisor since 2007, was nominated for “A-Surface, Operator of the Year” and received a letter from the North Carolina Waterworks Operators Association commending her for her dedication and valued service.
Kristy Maddy
Her nomination noted her commitment to continuous improvements, updates and major repairs so that the plant, which treats about 400,000 to 500,000 gallons a day when students are on campus, functions at peak efficiency and produces the highest quality of water for students, faculty and staff. In addition, Maddy has taken initiative to have water tested and data supplied to the state in anticipation of future requirements for enhanced treatment.
Ray McCall, who works with the Asheville Regional Office for the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Division of Environmental Health, said he is honored to work with Maddy and believes she is one of the best water treatment plant supervisors in Western North Carolina. McCall described her as well-organized, an effective planner, a good communicator and someone who always seeks to apply good water treatment technique.
“She is very determined to do the very best job possible and will confront problems head-on if required,” said McCall. “She is not hesitant to ask questions or seek assistance to help her figure out the best solution. Her first goal is to provide safe drinking water at all times to the students and faculty of WCU.”
Maddy is a Sylva native who graduated from WCU in 1997 with a degree in environmental health and, after being hired at WCU, went on to earn licenses as a C-Surface, B-Surface and then an A-Surface operator, as well as a license to work as a wastewater treatment operator.
“I wanted to work in an area concerned with the environment or public health, and with this job I get to do both,” said Maddy
As plant supervisor, she works with three water plant operators and addresses process control, lab analysis and preventative maintenance of plant equipment. Maddy submits and maintains a variety of records and reports, and oversees a wide range of water sampling and testing required for compliance with state and federal regulations. She maintains an inventory of all water treatment chemicals, lab supplies and equipment parts. She also develops, reviews and implements procedures to support more efficient plant operations.
“This job is a lot of responsibility that I take very seriously,” said Maddy. “The water plant operators and myself work very hard to ensure the best water possible reaches our consumers’ taps.”
By Teresa Killian Tate
