Several of GUC’s Water Resources employees were recognized at the NC Waterworks Operators Association (NCWOA) Annual Business Meeting and Banquet in Raleigh on March 29th. The NCWOA has been the premier trainer of waterworks professionals in North Carolina since 1939. Their volunteers are industry leaders who provide certification schools and continuing education opportunities. 

Laboratory Analyst of the Year Award 
Cheryl Irwin, Water Treatment Plant Laboratory Technician II, was presented the 2021 NCWOA Laboratory Analyst of the Year Award in appreciation of her outstanding work as a laboratory analyst for GUC and service to NCWOA.

Each year, the Association recognizes one person who has demonstrated outstanding ability in the field of drinking water analysis, and who has made exceptional achievements and contributions to the field of drinking water analysis and/or drinking water treatment.

Cheryl has been with GUC for 17 years. As a Laboratory Technician at our Water Treatment Plant (WTP), she helps to ensure that we have safe drinking water from the Plant all the way to the tap. A lot goes into providing quality drinking water, and our Lab Techs work closely with other employees at the Plant throughout the entire process. 

The Lab’s responsibilities are twofold. First, daily samples are taken from the Plant for bacterial, chemical, and physical analysis. Results are sent to the NC Department of Environmental Quality. Equally important, the laboratory staff goes out in the field to take samples from throughout the water distribution system. Each month, thousands of tests are performed on substances to ensure that our drinking water is safe. Many of these tests are required by law, but our lab also goes above what is required to ensure high standards of water quality control.   

“Cheryl has played a part in many special projects at the Plant and has contributed to building out the laboratory capabilities in analysis and personnel,” said Chad Flannagan, WTP Chemist. “She regularly assists with trouble calls from customers and volunteers at community events.”  

Additional Recognitions 
WTP Operator III Sharon Daughtridge and WTP Maintenance Mechanic III Don Sullivan became NCWOA life members in 2020, while

 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator III Julius Phillips and Environmental Control Officer Deanna Castellow became a lifetime members in 2021 and 2022 respectively. The 2020 annual banquet was cancelled due to Covid, so Sharon and Don were recognized this year. Lifetime membership is awarded to active members who have maintained an uninterrupted membership in the Association for a period of 25 years. 

Chemist Chad Flannagan was elected to serve as NCWOA 2nd Vice President. Chad will serve in this role for a two-year term, 1st Vice President for a two-year term, and President for two years followed by a two-year term as Past President.