Employee Spotlight: Water Distribution Team Reaches New Heights with Ohio EPA Certifications

From left to right: Todd Saums, Class III Water Supply and Class III Water Reclamation, Arnold Crawford, Class I Water Distribution, Humberto Teran, Class II Water Distribution, Matthew Honan, Class I Water Distribution, Keith McCarver, Class I Water Distribution, Jemark Walker, Class I Water Distribution, Matthew Wise, Class I Water Distribution, Alex Griffin, Class II Water Distribution, Michael Crook, Class I Water Distribution, Joel Zakorczeny, Class II Water Distribution, Aaron Lee, Class I Water Distribution, Chris Moore, Class I Water Distribution, Connor McClure, Class I Water DistributionWilliam Alford, Class II Water Distribution and Class I Wastewater Collection

A few years ago, three or four licenses were framed and hung on the wall in the Water Distribution Division's office. Today, the wall is nearly covered with Ohio EPAcertifications recognizing advanced skills in operating and maintaining public water and wastewater systems, a visible sign of the team’s dedication and skill in keeping the city’s water system running reliably.

“I think it's great to get people certified and licensed in the state of Ohio,” Todd Saums, commissioner of Water Distribution, said. “We added pay incentives through our contracts, and it's really taking off. On our wall here, you can see we went from three or four to 16 or 17 today."

”Employees can earn a Class I license after one year of water distribution experience and a Class II after two years, marking higher technical proficiency. Classes and study materials are provided by the Operator Training Committee of Ohio, and employees can continue advancing with higher-level exams.

“A lot of employees jumped at the chance to earn their licenses,” Saums said. “They came to me asking for study materials, so we ordered extra guides and held review sessions. Seeing them put in the work and succeed was really rewarding.”“It’s been incredible to see so many of our employees show initiative and succeed on the exam,” Saums said. “The state average is about a 35% pass rate. Our last group passed at 70%. It gave me a lot of professional joy to see them grow.”

The certifications have sparked new enthusiasm among staff, with many eager to start courses early and earn their own licenses rather than wait for the scheduled in-person classes.

For many city employees, earning a license has been rewarding personally and professionally. “It challenged me, sharpened my skills, and pushed me to lead by example. Each license I earn is an investment in our team’s future, helping build a culture of excellence, accountability, and pride in our work,” Humberto Teran, a Class II license holder, said.

Earning a water license has opened new opportunities for city employees and inspired personal growth. “Knowledge is power, and I love the chance to educate myself further to better serve the community. Having a water license opens more doors in my city career and shows my kids you’re never too old to learn,” Alex Griffin, a Class II, said.

For William Alford, earning water licenses has strengthened both his skills and leadership. “Obtaining my water license was an important step in my professional development. It demonstrates technical knowledge and my commitment to leading by example. The license is a standard of professionalism that elevates both my leadership and the organization,” Alford, holding Class II Water Distribution and Class I Wastewater Collection licenses, said.

Doug Stephens, Toledo’s director of Public Utilities, recognizes that certifications boost morale and professional pride. “It’s impressive that staff understand we need more than just doers. Over time, this builds a stronger workforce for those entering and advancing in the department,” Stephens said.

He added that the initiative also shows the value of leadership. “Todd came in already licensed, showing their value. He worked with administration to create a stipend structure, and now employees are motivated to earn their own licenses,” Stephens said.

The result is a more capable team and better service for the community. “It gives our residents confidence that Toledo has qualified, skilled people maintaining a system that serves 500,000 people,” Saums said.

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