John Smith, PE, BCEE
Haley Ward
Regional Manager of Municipal Infrastructure

How long have you been a member of FSA (years)?
I have been a member for two years.

Have you served FSA in the past?
No, I have not.

What abilities and attributes can you bring to the Board?
I am writing to express my keen interest in serving on your esteemed Board as a dedicated member committed to advancing environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. With over thirty years of experience in Environmental Engineering, a degree in Civil/Sanitary Engineering from Ohio State University, and licensure in multiple states, I offer a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in the field.

As a Board Certified Environmental Engineer with the American Academy of Environmental Engineers, I have cultivated a diverse background encompassing both industry and consulting realms. My skill set ranges from strategic planning and project design to program management and operational support, with a focus on environmental systems such as water treatment, wastewater management, and solid waste management.

Throughout my career, I have spearheaded numerous projects for esteemed clients including the Department of Defense, the US Air Force, and the Navy, tackling a wide array of challenges from wastewater collection and treatment to landfill management and recycling initiatives. My portfolio includes the planning, investigation, and detailed design of environmental systems, with recent projects encompassing water treatment plants, wastewater treatment facilities, and corrosion control studies.I bring extensive experience in project management, having successfully overseen the implementation of various water treatment and wastewater reuse treatment plants. My expertise spans conventional treatment methods as well as advanced systems like membrane filtration and activated carbon adsorption. Additionally, my involvement in corrosion control studies and designs for water and wastewater pipelines underscores my commitment to infrastructure sustainability and longevity.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I am deeply engaged in the environmental engineering community, serving as an active member and speaker for prominent organizations including the American Water Works Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, and NACE International. My dedication to knowledge-sharing and collaboration aligns with the values of FSA, and I am eager to contribute my insights and expertise towards our mission of environmental conservation and advocacy.

In conclusion, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to leverage my extensive experience and passion for environmental sustainability as a member of the Board. I am committed to promoting innovative solutions and fostering meaningful partnerships to address the pressing environmental challenges of our time. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to FSA’s impactful initiatives.

What background and experience do you have in the stormwater industry?
With over two decades of experience in water and stormwater management, I have spearheaded a multitude of projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure resilience and environmental sustainability. Noteworthy among these is my pivotal role in developing the Pipeline Condition Assessment (PCA) Program for DC Water, which focused on evaluating the remaining life and life cycle cost analyses of existing water mains. This program, integral to DC Water's asset management strategy, aimed to optimize decision-making processes for efficient and cost-effective asset renewal.

Additionally, I led corrosion control engineering studies for various projects, including Anne Arundel County's 36-inch water transmission main and Howard County's Guilford Road Elevated Water Tank. These initiatives involved comprehensive evaluations of soil corrosivity, stray current impacts, and induced AC voltage impacts, culminating in the preparation of technical reports and engineering recommendations.

Furthermore, my expertise extends to wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) planning, design, and operation, as demonstrated by my involvement in projects such as the Chesapeake City Park/YMCA in Virginia and the Mill Bottom WWTP assessment in Maryland. I have also contributed to the design and construction management of sewage pumping stations, low-pressure sewer systems, and water distribution networks across various communities.

Moreover, my international experience includes waste management privatization projects in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Jakarta, Indonesia, where I developed solid waste management plans and designed modern landfills with advanced liner systems and leachate treatment facilities.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement in water and stormwater management. My multidisciplinary approach, coupled with a proven track record of successful project delivery, positions me as a valuable asset to any environmental board seeking to address complex challenges and drive positive change in our communities.

Why do you want this Board position?
As a seasoned professional with extensive experience in water and stormwater management, I am deeply passionate about advancing sustainable solutions and promoting best practices in the field. Serving on the Board of Directors for the Florida Stormwater Association presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the collective efforts of industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in addressing the unique challenges facing stormwater management in the state. I am committed to leveraging my expertise to drive impactful initiatives, foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and advocate for policies that prioritize environmental conservation, resilience, and community well-being. By serving on the Board, I aim to play a proactive role in shaping the future of stormwater management in Florida, ensuring that our communities thrive in the face of evolving environmental pressures.