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Ops Challenge Overview

Operations Challenge ‘08
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
9:15 a.m.   5:00 p.m.
Hall C2, McCormick Place


How do operators and technicians overcome flooding, a sewer collapse, process failure and other emergencies? Do you ever wonder what transpires behind the scenes during the operation of a wastewater treatment facility? Instead of continuing to take these unsung specialists for granted, come see some of the best wastewater collection and treatment personnel in the world display their skills during Operations Challenge ‘08.

Tension and drama fill the air during this 21st annual WEFTEC event, as operators compete for pride and the right to hoist the trophy awarded to the team demonstrating the best combination of precision, speed and safety.  Each team is sponsored by a WEF Member Association or recognized Operator Association.  Winners are determined by a weighted point system for five events (collection systems, laboratory, process control, maintenance and safety), each designed to test the diverse skills required for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities, their collection systems and laboratories.

The Rocky Mountain Water Environment Association’s Commode Commandos won their second Operations Challenge competition in 2007. The Commandos, of the Littleton/Englewood Wastewater Treatment Plant, are coached by Leonard Robb. Stacey Walker is the team’s captain, and Brian Pritekel, Caleb Vannice, and Chong Woo complete the roster.

Come watch the Commode Commandos defend their title! The first event kicks off at 9:15 a.m. in Hall C2 with the competition ending at 5:00 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers.



Operations Challenge Committee

Chair     
Jeff Pratt
Alexandria Sanitation Authority

Vice-Chair    
Cordell Samuels
Municipality of Durham, ONT

Event Coordinators
Collection Systems  
John Trofatter
Accusonic

Laboratory    
Stacie Metzler 
Hampton Roads Sanitation Districts

Maintenance    
Ginny Farmer
GEA Power Cooling

Process Control   
Mike Ross
OMI
 
Safety    
Starlin Jones
City of Sparks, NV

Scoring     
Dave Vogel
OMI