From the city of Great Bend
Eight City of Great Bend Utilities Employees Complete 18-Week Wastewater Operations Training Program
The City of Great Bend is proud to recognized eight of its public utilities department employees for their successful completion of the wastewater operations and maintenance training program. This intensive 18-week course provided comprehensive instruction in both wastewater treatment plant operations and wastewater collection system maintenance.
"This training represents a significant investment in our employees and our community," said Public Utilities Director Darren Doonan. "Operating a modern wastewater system requires highly trained professionals with a strong understanding of both regulatory requirements and treatment processes.”
City employees who completed the course include James Gaunt, Doug Prosser, Dennis Steele, Doug Barton, Jackson Vanasee, April Batt, Dustin Ferguson and Doonan.
Throughout the program, participants completed classroom instruction, laboratory exercises, and hands-on learning designed to prepare operators for the complex responsibilities of maintaining municipal wastewater infrastructure. Course topics included National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting, workplace safety, wastewater sources and characteristics, mathematical calculations used in plant operations, pump operation and maintenance, pretreatment and preliminary treatment processes, secondary treatment and nutrient removal, activated sludge process control, ponds and lagoons, and biosolids and sludge management.
In addition to classroom instruction, employees participated in two wastewater treatment plant tours and two laboratory sessions, providing valuable real-world experience and reinforcing the concepts learned throughout the course.
“By continuing to invest in education and professional development, we are ensuring the City of Great Bend remains prepared to provide reliable wastewater services while protecting public health and maintaining compliance with state and federal environmental regulations,” said Doonan.
The City of Great Bend congratulates these employees for their commitment to ongoing education and strengthening the utilities department with technical expertise.