PUD 1’s TJ Goos Named “2018 Water Operator of the Year” by Evergreen Rural Water of Washington

At the April 23, 2019 board of commissioners meeting, Mason County PUD No. 1’s lead water system operator TJ Goos was presented with a plaque inscribed “2018 Water Operator of the Year” by Evergreen Rural Water of Washington (ERWoW). Goos was surprised with the announcement of his award at the ERWoW annual conference in Yakima earlier this spring. The plaque and presentation before the PUD 1 board of commissioners made it official.
 
Tracey Hunter, executive director for ERWoW, (pictured with Goos) cited several reasons Goos was chosen for the honor, including his leadership under pressure when one of the District’s systems encountered a bad routine sample that required substantial reservoir repairs and coordination between state agencies, the PUD, and customers. She also mentioned Goos’ efforts to help the District research and onboard 32 new water systems last July which increased its customer base by about 30%.
 
“TJ’s leadership has really shined in both emergency situations and ongoing daily operations over the last 18 months. He’s very deserving of this award and Evergreen Rural Water has been a great partner and resource to the PUD”, stated general manager Kristin Masteller. “We’re incredibly proud of the work he has done for the utility on behalf of our ratepayers.”
 
Founded in 1994, ERWoW provides training and technical assistance to water and wastewater systems throughout the state to provide help in solving rural water problems. Their headquarters is located in Shelton, Washington.