Trainer Spotlight

For Jeff McKenzie, the water industry has never been just a job—it’s been a lifelong path shaped by hands-on experience, problem solving, and a commitment to continuous learning.

“I remember going to the water plant with my dad and mixing chlorine in a garbage can with a boat paddle,” he recalls. “We’ve come a long way since then.”

Jeff’s introduction to the field started early, working alongside family and learning the fundamentals long before modern treatment systems and automation became the norm. After serving in the U.S. Navy (1985–1989), he began his professional career at a small new water plant, eventually rising to Superintendent. His experience later expanded into wastewater when his municipality acquired a system facing serious compliance and infrastructure challenges. Through system mapping, smoke testing, and the development of standard operating procedures, he helped establish a stronger operational foundation and significantly improved performance.

Today, as Senior Operator at the Carlisle Water Plant, Jeff’s work focuses on SOP development, safety, compliance reporting, and prioritizing operational needs. At the core of it all is a skillset he values most—solving problems and adapting to whatever challenges arise.

Throughout his career, Jeff has witnessed the industry undergo significant transformation. In recent years, however, the pace and scale of change have accelerated. Regulations such as lead service line inventory requirements and emerging PFAS standards are reshaping utility operations, introducing increased complexity, tighter compliance expectations, and rising costs.

These regulations serve an important role in protecting public health. At the same time, they are contributing to a growing challenge within the workforce. Much of the industry is made up of experienced operators who are approaching retirement, and attracting new talent is becoming more difficult. As systems become more complex and regulatory demands continue to expand, the barrier to entry for new operators can feel higher, while the day-to-day responsibilities for current operators become more demanding.

This tension—between maintaining strong public health protections and ensuring the sustainability of the workforce—is one of the most pressing issues facing the industry today.

Despite these challenges, Jeff remains optimistic about the future. Advances in control systems, automation, and the potential integration of AI are expected to play a significant role in helping operators manage increasingly complex systems. Adaptability, both in technology and in mindset, will be essential.

As a trainer, Jeff values the opportunity to connect with operators across the industry. He sees training not just as a way to share knowledge, but as a chance to learn from others and stay engaged with the evolving challenges utilities face every day.

Outside of work, Jeff enjoys fly fishing, home remodeling, and long-distance running. He has also spent 30 years coaching amateur wrestling and hopes to continue mentoring athletes in the Carlisle area.

His advice to those entering the field reflects the mindset that has guided his career: stay open to change, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to try new approaches. In an industry defined by constant evolution, that willingness to adapt may be the most valuable skill of all.

Jeff’s perspective reflects one of the most important conversations facing the industry today: protecting public health must remain the priority—but so must ensuring the industry remains accessible and sustainable for the next generation of operators.