Two Centennial Water and Sanitation District employees, John Droullard and Andy Smith, were recognized by the Rocky Mountain Section of the American Water Works Association at the Rocky Mountain Water Conference in Loveland. 

The Rocky Mountain Section of the American Water Works Association, is an educational and scientific membership organization dedicated to treating and managing water. 

Recognized for his performance, dedication and teamwork, Droullard is the recipient of the Ralph M. Leidholdt Outstanding Water Treatment Plant Operator Award. 

“I was surprised to be nominated and to receive this award,” said Droullard. “Individual awards are nice but we have a great team at Centennial Water. The district’s strength is that challenges are addressed and goals are accomplished in an atmosphere of mutual respect.”

Droullard is Centennial Water’s Water Treatment Plant Lead Operator and holds Class A Water Operator and Class A Wastewater Operator certifications.  

The class levels of Colorado water treatment facility operators range from Class D, which is entry level to Class A, the most advanced level. 

As the plant’s lead operator, Droullard monitors the facility and runs the equipment that is used to treat the water, making it safe for the public to use and drink. He has been part of, led and managed everything from infrastructure replacement improvements, to capacity expansion and process changes and optimization. 

“John is very deserving of this award,” said Nic George, Centennial Water superintendent of water and wastewater operations, in a press release. “His knowledge, steadfastness and mentorship have helped prepare many operators, myself included, to continue the excellence that he exhibits.

The district’s Water Treatment Plant Maintenance Lead Andy Smith received the 2023 Water Treatment Plant Maintenance Award. 

Smith has worked at Centennial Water for 12 years and holds Class D Water Operator, Class D Wastewater Operator and Mechanic 2 certifications. 

In addition, Smith has been involved in the creation and implementation of the district’s asset management system, internal upgrades and retro-fits to process areas, has responded to multiple emergencies and serves as the main contact for general contractors during construction projects. 

Smith said he is honored to be recognized and is also grateful for the team at Centennial Water. 

“Everyone at Centennial Water deserves this award and the recognition just as much as we do,” said Smith.

Ross James, the superintendent of facilities maintenance and asset management said in a press release that with his great work ethic and positive attitude, Smith has been an excellent example for his crews over the years. 

“Both gentlemen exemplify hard work, a desire to continually learn and look for ways to innovate, and are amazing mentors to coworkers,” said General Manager San Calkins.