Awards

The SEDA Awards aim to recognize the outstanding contributions of professionals and facilities within the water treatment sector. These awards highlight exceptional performance, leadership, and commitment to advancing the industry. Below is a detailed overview of each award category and the criteria for selection.

INSTRUCTIONS: All applications must be submitted electronically to [email protected] by April 4, 2025. You will find the application form at the bottom of this page.  Include any additional information and/or material that may attribute to the submission.  Winners will be recognized at the SEDA Annual Symposium.

Senior Operator of the Year 
This prestigious award honors long-term dedication and expertise in the field of membrane-based water treatment processes. Ideal candidates have: 
  • Experience: At least 25 to 30 years of continuous work as a licensed plant operator, Chief Operator, or Plant Manager.
  • Knowledge: Demonstrated proficiency in membrane processes.
  • Excellence: Consistently exceed job requirements through effort and dedication.
  • Leadership: Exemplary leadership skills and a commitment to mentoring and supporting colleagues.
  • Industry Engagement: Active participation in professional organizations such as SEDA, AMTA, or AWWA.
  • Recommendation: Strong endorsements from supervisors or coworkers emphasizing their qualities.
Operator of the Year 
Recognizing emerging talent, the Operator of the Year award is presented to those showing remarkable potential and commitment: 
  • Experience: At least one year of continuous work as a licensed plant operator.
  • Knowledge: Solid understanding of membrane-based treatment processes.
  • Excellence: A job performance that consistently goes beyond expectations.
  • Leadership: Self-reliance and a drive to continuously improve their knowledge.
  • Industry Engagement: Participation in organizations like SEDA, AMTA, or AWWA.
  • Recommendation: Strong supervisor’s recommendation highlighting their achievements.
Small Plant of the Year 
This award celebrates the excellence of small-scale facilities that demonstrate outstanding operational practices: 
  • Capacity: Less than 5 million gallons per day.
  • Safety and Compliance: Exemplary safety record with minimal permit violations.
  • Maintenance: Robust maintenance management for optimal operation and reliability.
  • Community Engagement: Efforts to educate the public on water-related topics.
  • Programs: Encouragement of certification, training, and emergency response programs.
Large Plant of the Year 
Recognizing large facilities that excel in various operational aspects, this award highlights: 
  • Capacity: Greater than 5 million gallons per day.
  • Safety and Compliance: Exceptional safety record with minimal permit violations.
  • Maintenance: Comprehensive maintenance management for long-term reliability.
  • Community Engagement: Educational initiatives on water supply and quality.
  • Programs: Active promotion of certification, training, and water conservation.
Operator Form
Large Plant Form

PAST AWARD WINNERS