Scaling UP! H2O

scalinguph2o.com

The podcast where we scale up on knowledge so we don't scale up our systems. Find out why working in Industrial Water Treatment is the best job in the world. Hear industry experts share their knowledge and stories. Learn about technologies, methods, and career journeys. Join podcast host Trace Blackmore, former AWT President, LEED, and CWT every Friday for a new episode.

  1. Questions from the Scaling UP! Nation about Trace

    5D AGO

    Questions from the Scaling UP! Nation about Trace

    Every career in industrial water treatment is shaped by decisions, mentors, credentials, systems, and the willingness to keep learning. In this special mailbag-style episode, Trace Blackmore, CWT, answers questions from the Scaling UP! Nation about how he entered water treatment, why he started the podcast, what professional credentials have meant to him, and what he is still working to improve. This conversation gives water professionals a practical look at the habits behind a long career in the industry: getting involved early, documenting customer conversations, building strong teams, using repeatable processes, and staying open to new tools like AI. From Family Influence to a Career in Water Treatment Trace shares that his start in water treatment came through his father, who brought him along to accounts after school. His early memories include watching test results change color, learning around hospital accounts, and seeing how water treatment decisions were made in the field. Before entering water treatment full-time, Trace worked in financial services and received strong sales training. However, he realized he was not enjoying the work. His father invited him to become a service technician, which led to a career path that combined technical problem-solving, customer service, sales, and a deep appreciation for the industrial water community. Why Credentials, Associations, and Documentation Matter Trace explains why the Certified Water Technologist credential remains one of the professional accomplishments he values most. He also discusses his LEED GA and LEED AP credentials, his time as a former president of the Association of Water Technologies, and his training as a master facilitator. For professionals building their own careers, the larger lesson is clear: credentials, online presence, and association involvement can shape how customers and peers understand your expertise. Trace also emphasizes the importance of documenting conversations, decisions, and recommendations so teams and customers have a clear record when issues arise. The Podcast, Rising Tide Mastermind, and Raising the Industry Bar Trace reflects on launching the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast in 2017 after encouragement from Charlie Cicchetti and Conor Parrish. What began as a monthly podcast eventually became a weekly resource with structured processes, procedures, and a growing audience of water professionals. He also discusses the honor of having Scaling UP! H2O recognized as the official podcast of the Association of Water Technologies, as well as the creation of Rising Tide Mastermind, which now includes 76 members across 7 groups. Both platforms reflect the same goal: creating spaces where industrial water professionals can learn, connect, and improve together. Technology, AI, and the Next Phase of Learning When asked about the biggest change in the industry, Trace points to data collection, remote monitoring, the Internet of Things, and AI. He remembers a time when system information required an on-site visit. Today, water professionals can review controller data, reports, and trends before arriving in the field. Trace also shares how his Doctor of Business Administration program is changing the way he thinks about research, learning, and long-term growth. His 2026 goals include continuing that academic work, strengthening the podcast's educational value, and giving family and personal commitments proper space on the calendar. This episode is not only a personal reflection. It is a reminder that long-term success in water treatment depends on learning, relationships, systems, and the willingness to keep improving. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps  02:35 — Trace opens the episode with a May update and connects the season to a practical cooling tower challenge: pollen in Southern systems. 04:30 — Trace explains why this episode is different: Scaling UP! Nation asked for more personal stories and career reflections from him. 06:50 — Trace highlights the 6th Annual Oilfield Water Markets Conference and shares the Scaling UP! H2O listener discount code. 08:00 — Trace mentions the International Water Association Leading Edge Conference on Water and Wastewater Technologies in Houston. 08:50 — Trace points healthcare-focused water professionals toward ASHE's Healthcare Facilities Innovation Conference in Minneapolis. 09:50 — James McDonald presents a new Words of Water definition focused on wet bulb temperature and cooling tower performance. 11:20 — Trace explains why receiving compliments used to be difficult and how mentorship helped him respond with more respect and gratitude. 13:50 — Trace answers how he got started in water treatment through his father, field visits, testing, and early exposure to accounts. 15:50 — Trace describes leaving financial services, joining his father's company as a service technician, and finding work he genuinely enjoyed. 18:20 — Trace explains the credentials behind his name, beginning with the Certified Water Technologist designation. 20:25 — Trace discusses LEED GA and LEED AP credentials and how they helped him communicate with commercial building owners. 23:00 — Trace shares why his AWT leadership experience and master facilitator training matter to his professional identity. 24:55 — Trace explains how Charlie Cicchetti introduced him to podcasts and encouraged him to start what became Scaling UP! H2O. 27:30 — Trace describes the podcast's early cadence, moving from monthly to biweekly and then weekly episodes. 32:30 — Trace identifies AWT naming Scaling UP! H2O its official podcast as a crowning moment for the show. 33:45 — Trace shares personal and professional achievements, including adopting his son, building the podcast, and launching Rising Tide Mastermind. 35:30 — Trace explains how he balances podcasting, business, and other responsibilities through team support, time blocking, procedures, and the 12 Week Year. 41:05 — Trace shares advice to his younger self: join an association early, get involved, document everything, and build relationships in the industry. 44:40 — Trace identifies data, remote monitoring, IoT, AI, Legionella, PFAS, and water management plans as major changes in the industry. 48:10 — Trace shares scuba diving as his favorite non-water-treatment hobby and reflects on teaching more than 1,000 people to dive. 50:00 — Trace explains how pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration is teaching him research, academic discipline, and new ways to learn. 54:05 — Trace shares his 2026 goals, including progressing through his DBA program, expanding podcast resources, and prioritizing family on his calendar Connect with Scaling UP! H2O   Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea   LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/   YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O  Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT Audible Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses 12 Week Year Plan  The Rising Tide Mastermind 420 Tapping Into Tech: How Ben Frieders Uses AI to Elevate Water Treatment Marketing  Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is the lowest temperature that can be achieved through evaporation alone and is used to evaluate cooling tower performance.  Do you know the word or phrase?  2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 1m
  2. From Oil to Water: How the Water Midstream Sector Was Born with John Durand

    APR 25

    From Oil to Water: How the Water Midstream Sector Was Born with John Durand

    Industrial water professionals often think about water in terms of treatment, compliance, reuse, and operational risk. John Durand brings a different but closely connected view: water as infrastructure, water as a managed resource, and water as a strategic part of energy development.  John Durand, one of the early pioneers of the water midstream sector and CEO of Magnificent Desolation, LLC, joins Trace Blackmore to explain how produced water moved from a disposal challenge to a large-scale infrastructure opportunity.  From Disposal Model to Managed Resource  John describes how the growth of horizontal drilling changed the scale of water management in the Permian Basin. A vertical well once used a fraction of the water required for today's horizontal wells, creating a need for pipelines, reuse systems, recycling strategies, and long-term infrastructure planning.  He explains that the water midstream sector emerged because the old approach—trucking water or simply sending it to disposal—could not keep pace with the volume. Today, the conversation has shifted toward produced water reuse, recycling, and the search for beneficial uses outside of oil and gas.  Produced Water, Salinity, and Future Use  John notes that produced water can carry very high salinity, sometimes many times higher than seawater. That creates treatment challenges, especially when thinking beyond oilfield reuse and toward broader industrial applications.  He also points to future opportunities for produced water in data centers, electric generation, cooling applications, and possibly other beneficial reuse pathways. The key message is clear: water once treated as waste may become an important resource if the industry continues to innovate responsibly.  Infrastructure, Trust, and Public-Private Partnerships  Beyond pipelines and treatment, John emphasizes the role of relationships. He shares examples from Midland and Odessa, where long-term water supply arrangements and wastewater treatment infrastructure created value for both communities and industry.  For water professionals, the lesson extends beyond oilfield water. Large infrastructure projects require technical expertise, capital, public trust, and long-term credibility. John's experience shows that durable solutions depend as much on trust and collaboration as they do on engineering.  Staying Curious in a Changing Industry  John closes with a practical leadership reminder: stay curious, ask better questions, and keep learning. Whether the topic is produced water, AI, energy independence, or infrastructure, he encourages professionals to dig deeper and continue expanding their understanding.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:50 — Trace introduces the episode's central topic: the water midstream sector and how produced water is becoming a true asset instead of only a waste stream 06:31 — John Durand joins the conversation as one of the early pioneers of the water midstream sector and CEO of Magnificent Desolation 07:01 — John introduces his 41-year career in the energy business, his Louisiana roots, and his lifelong connection to oil and gas 08:08 — John explains the origin of the name Magnificent Desolation and its connection to Buzz Aldrin's words after walking on the moon 10:15 — John shares how lifelong curiosity, including reading an entire set of encyclopedias at age 12, shaped his career and learning mindset 11:28 — John walks through his energy career, from upstream oil and gas to natural gas marketing, power generation, conventional midstream, and eventually water midstream 14:22 — John explains how a call about water being "a big deal in the future" led him into Pioneer Natural Resources and large-scale water infrastructure 15:29 — John describes how the water midstream sector emerged as Pioneer built infrastructure to move water across a large acreage position 16:21 — John explains why horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing changed the scale of water demand and produced water management in the Permian Basin 17:39 — Trace asks John to define the water midstream sector, setting up a practical explanation of acquisition, movement, reuse, recycling, and disposal 19:57 — John addresses a common misconception about water midstream: the industry is moving beyond disposal toward reuse, recycling, and beneficial use 23:08 — John explains how the industry learned to manage massive water volumes through infrastructure, collaboration, and private capital investment 25:25 — John discusses produced water treatment considerations, including heavy metals, high salinity, desalination, and waste-product management 27:56 — John defines upstream, midstream, and downstream so listeners can understand how water midstream fits into the broader energy sector 30:09 — John explains why relationships matter in water midstream, especially when developing long-term projects and public-private partnerships 31:24 — John shares examples from Midland and Odessa, where municipal wastewater arrangements created long-term value for both communities and industry 34:31 — John explains why trust is the foundation of lasting relationships and how completed projects can create credibility for future opportunities 38:26 — John reflects on when he realized the water midstream sector was becoming durable and strategically important as private capital entered the space 40:03 — John looks ahead to the future of water midstream, including beneficial reuse, data centers, electric generation, and regional water infrastructure.  44:15 — John discusses how the geopolitical environment affects energy, water management, infrastructure, and U.S. energy independence.  01:04:02 — Words of Water with James McDonald   Quotes "I have always been a very curious individual."  "It was produced water and freshwater."  "The misconception is oil-filled water, and the midstream water industry is just handling waste."  "It's really relationships and how you create and develop those relationships."  "Once you develop that trust over time, that's what it comes down to."  "The future really is into that term that you're going to hear a lot more of, and that's beneficial reuse."  "Be curious, stay curious, ask the right questions, be bold."    Connect with John Durand  Phone: (214) 232-4953  Email: Johnrdurand19@gmail.com  Website: 6th Annual Oilfield Water Markets Conference - Oilfield Water Connection   News & Events for Oilfield Water Management - Oilfield Water Connection   LinkedIn: John Durand | LinkedIn     Guest Resources Mentioned   Oilfield Water Connection 6th Annual Oilfield Water Markets Conference - Oilfield Water Connection  Texas Alliance of Energy Producers Produced Water Society Inc  When Pride Still Mattered:  A Life of Vince Lombardi by David Maraniss  The Shadow of War: A Novel of the Cuban Missile Crisis by Jeff Shaara  Britannica's Permian Basin   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by suspended particles that scatter light.  Do you know the word or phrase?    2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 7m
  3. Finding and Fixing the Invisible: Chris MacDonald on Pressure Pipe Inspection and Rehab

    APR 17

    Finding and Fixing the Invisible: Chris MacDonald on Pressure Pipe Inspection and Rehab

    "Document everything." Spring startup season exposes more than operational stress. It also reveals what happened months earlier when systems were laid up poorly, maintenance steps were skipped, or warning signs were documented but not acted on. In this episode, Trace Blackmore connects that reality to a broader infrastructure problem: hidden damage inside pressure piping systems that operators often cannot see until a leak, rupture, or budget crisis forces action.     Why hidden pressure pipe problems are so expensive  Chris McDonald, CEO and President of CPM Pipelines, explains why pressure pipe inspection and rehabilitation deserve more attention from utilities and industrial facilities. His core point is practical: many owners are still making repair or replacement decisions without first getting a high-resolution look at the pipe's actual condition.  That creates two risks. First, teams may spend too late, after a failure creates public, operational, or safety consequences. Second, they may spend too much, replacing long stretches of pipe when only a targeted section actually needs rehabilitation. Chris argues that better inspection narrows uncertainty and helps owners avoid both extremes.  Inspection first, then the right rehabilitation scope  A major theme in the conversation is that CPM Pipelines works across both inspection and rehab, which changes how projects are evaluated. Chris notes that many inspection firms inspect, and many rehab firms rehabilitate, but few do both. That difference matters because the best answer is not always the biggest project.  He shares an example of a recent force main inspection that showed half the line was in bad condition and half was in very bad condition, yet the data still allowed the agency to target the rehab scope precisely. According to Chris, that approach saved a small utility of almost $10 million. He also explains why trenchless rehab can often reduce project schedules from months to weeks and save roughly 50% compared with traditional dig-and-replace work.  Leadership, documentation, and building the right team  The conversation also moves beyond pipelines into business leadership. Chris reflects on entrepreneurship, the value of solution-driven work over commodity selling, and the importance of documenting systems early if a company intends to scale.  He also emphasizes team alignment, core values, and recognizing quickly when someone is in the wrong seat. For owners and managers, that part of the episode is as useful as the technical discussion. The takeaway is clear: strong execution depends on both sound field data and disciplined internal systems.  Pressure pipe problems are often invisible until they become urgent. This conversation shows why better inspection, better decision timing, and better documentation can improve both infrastructure outcomes and business results.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  01:18 — A call to action for the Global 6K for Water on May 16, 2026  02:20 — Trace introduces the podcast, notes that spring startup season is underway and warns that cooling and irrigation systems laid up poorly can produce rusty water and decayed piping, often leading clients to blame the water treater.   05:23 — "Words of Water" game show, James McDonald   06:48 — Trace highlights upcoming events, encouraging listeners to use the Scaling UP! events page to plan their professional development  09:59 — Guest Chris McDonald shares his 25‑year journey through US Pipe, distribution and finally entrepreneurship; he credits his wife's support and explains how she joined the company without reporting directly to him  14:30 — Chris recalls that working in manufacturing and distribution taught him that value comes from solving problems rather than selling the same products as competitors, which prompted him to launch CPM Pipelines  16:16 — CPM Pipelines now focuses exclusively on pressure‑pipe inspection and rehabilitation. Chris describes how combining contracting and representation allows his team to inspect, assess and rehabilitate pipelines using high‑resolution inspection technologies and exclusive trenchless lining systems  18:44 — He argues that trenchless rehabilitation can cut costs by roughly 50 percent and reduce a six‑month dig‑and‑replace project to six weeks, noting that pressure‑pipe adoption has lagged due to access and bypass challenges but is beginning to change  21:14 — A recent force‑main inspection exemplifies their approach: high‑resolution data pinpointed a failing section, enabling targeted rehabilitation that saved a small utility nearly $10 million compared with wholesale replacement  22:40 — Chris and Trace discuss infrastructure sprawl and water billing; Chris observes that development patterns spread systems ever outward, straining budgets, yet people still balk at paying $20 for water while spending far more on cell phones  25:21 — CPM insists on inspecting pressure pipes before rehabilitation; Chris explains that many leaking pipes remain structurally sound and that sometimes replacing a short force main is cheaper than an inspection, whereas longer mains justify data‑driven decisions  32:08 — To find clients, the team monitors news for main failures, uses AI to scan meeting notes and leverages LinkedIn and ZoomInfo; Chris notes that industrial clients often have funds to act quickly while municipal agencies defer action until failures become public  34:49 — Many early pipe failures stem from random construction defects rather than gradual wear; detecting a dent hidden beneath coating may require high‑resolution tools because conventional models cannot predict these anomalies  40:49 — Chris emphasizes the importance of putting the right people in the right seats, recognizing bad fits quickly and hiring high‑level talent. CPM grows organically without borrowing money and values of alignment among employees, contractor partners and clients    Quotes "If there's nobody else that sees value in what I do, whether or not I see value in it is irrelevant."  "You don't want to invest too early. You don't want to invest too late. And you don't want to invest too much, right?"  "Don't let any good conduit go unused, right?"  "You can't do this by yourself. It takes a team."  "Document everything."  "Always be a student."     Connect with Chris MacDonald  Phone: (760) 809-5391   Email: chris@cpmpipelines.com  Website: CPM Pipelines  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-macdonald-95805b13/   CPM Pipelines LinkedIn  BulletLiner System LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned  The Future is Faster Than You Think: Chris MacDonald Of CPM Pipelines On How Leaders Are Preparing for The Innovations, Disruptions, and Strategies That Will Define Tomorrow    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  Global 6k    Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is an expression for calculating the solubility of a gas in a fluid based on temperature and partial pressure.  Do you know the word or phrase?    2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.    This episode is made possible through our valued partners at:

    56 min
  4. Biofilms, Biocides, and TTPC: A Deep Dive with Dr. Jeff Kramer

    APR 10

    Biofilms, Biocides, and TTPC: A Deep Dive with Dr. Jeff Kramer

    Biofilm is not a fringe issue in cooling systems. As Dr. Jeff Kramer explains, it is a given. That matters because biofilm affects heat transfer, contributes to corrosion, and can serve as a reservoir for Legionella in treated systems. In this conversation, Trace Blackmore and Dr. Kramer examine what experienced water treaters should be looking for when choosing and evaluating a microbiological control program.   Biofilm as an operating problem Dr. Jeff defines biofilm as a community of microorganisms attached to a surface and held together by an external polymeric matrix. From there, the discussion moves quickly into why this matters in the field. He points to research showing that biofilms can be more insulating than mineral scale, then explains how microbial activity and patchy film formation can intensify corrosion risk. He also notes that Legionella can be harbored within biofilm, making clean-looking bulk water an incomplete picture of system condition. Choosing the right biocide program A strong oxidizing biocide foundation remains central, whether based on chlorine or bromine. However, Dr. Jeff makes a practical distinction that matters to service professionals: some non-oxidizing biocides kill biofilm organisms without removing the film, while others both kill and remove. He also explains why shock dosing often outperforms smaller, more frequent additions, and why biocide timing should be evaluated in the context of oxidizer compatibility, halogen demand, and actual system feedback rather than habit or opinion. Surfactants, TTPC, and field realities The conversation also covers how surfactants and quaternary compounds can disrupt microbial membranes and improve biocide penetration. Dr. Jeff shares lab and field insight on TTPC, including its strong performance in kill-and-removal testing and its known interference with PTSA fluorescence programs. The discussion closes with practical monitoring advice: inspect the basin, feel below the waterline, trend dip slides, watch approach temperatures, and pay attention to residence time when selecting products for different system volumes and turnover rates. Better microbiological control is not about one product or one rule of thumb. It is about understanding the system, interpreting feedback, and matching chemistry to operating reality so performance can be maintained over time. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Quotes "You need to understand,  listen to the feedback you're getting from the system and then adjust your program appropriately. " "Don't be afraid to ask for help because you don't know you don't know everything" Connect with Dr Jeff Kramer  Phone: (404)-386-0518  Email: jkramer@mfgchemical.com   Website: https://www.radicalpolymers.com/  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/traceblackmore/ ?skipRedirect=truuee  Guest Resources Mentioned  CTI's New Biocide Options For Biofouling Control by Jeffrey Kramer Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   253 The One About Biofilms Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition refers to the exact chemical amount required for a reaction to proceed to completion with no excess of any reactant. It describes the quantitative relationships between reactants and products. Can you guess the word or phrase?  2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    57 min
  5. Wastewater Enthusiast: Training the Next Generation Online

    APR 3

    Wastewater Enthusiast: Training the Next Generation Online

    Shawn Powell has built a following by doing something wastewater operators have needed for a long time: making practical technical education easier to access. In Episode 470, he explains why that matters, how he built The Wastewater Enthusiast, and what the industry still gets wrong about training, certification, and knowledge transfer. From test prep to true understanding A major thread in this conversation is the gap between passing an exam and actually understanding plant operations. Shawn reflects on his own early experience with certification prep, where classes helped him recognize test questions but did not always help him understand what was happening inside a real activated sludge system. That gap became the foundation for his channel. He makes the case that operators need more than memorization. They need visuals, process context, and practical explanations that help concepts stick. For professionals responsible for training staff, succession planning, or improving plant performance, that distinction matters. What real operations look like on the ground Shawn also brings credibility from the plant floor. He describes his work as chief plant operator in Avila Beach, California, where a small facility still demands close attention because of its biological complexity, membrane bioreactor operation, and chemical dosing requirements. A story about foam erupting from an aeration basin becomes more than a war story. It shows how biology resists quick fixes and why operators have to think in time horizons measured in MCRT cycles, not minutes. The conversation also touches on shock loads, public misuse of sewer systems, and the daily balance between observation, testing, automation, and operator instinct. That practical perspective keeps the discussion grounded for listeners who live with process variability every day. Why free knowledge matters One of the strongest sections centers on Shawn's idea of the "democratization of knowledge." He argues that critical wastewater education should not be locked behind paywalls or trapped in the heads of reluctant gatekeepers. That point expands into a broader discussion about generational turnover, operator shortages, and the risk of losing hard-earned plant knowledge as experienced professionals retire. Shawn also explains how monetization entered the picture without changing the mission. Training workshops, webinars, YouTube revenue, and memberships have started to support the project, while his core educational content remains open to everyone. Exam strategy, content strategy, and long-term value The episode closes with practical advice for certification candidates. Shawn stresses long preparation windows, disciplined use of official study materials, and a simple but critical reminder: read the question completely. He also shares how he chooses content, responds to viewer needs, and uses real plant events to teach beyond the textbook. For leaders, trainers, and operators alike, this is a useful conversation about how technical knowledge gets shared, preserved, and improved. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Connect with Shawn Powell  Phone: (530) 859-2787  Email: powell.shawnm@gmail.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-powell-792020197/     Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is a flexible, one‑way item installed on the feed end of a spiral‑wound reverse osmosis membrane element. Its job is to force all incoming feedwater to flow through the membrane feed channel rather than bypassing around the outside of the element. Can you guess the word or phrase?    2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 11m
  6. ABMA: The Oldest Association Meets Today's Challenges

    MAR 27

    ABMA: The Oldest Association Meets Today's Challenges

    Boiler performance rarely depends on a single decision. It depends on design, controls, maintenance, workforce capability, and, as this conversation makes clear, the quality of water treatment. Scott Lynch and Shaunica Jayson explain how American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) is addressing those realities by connecting manufacturers, representatives, suppliers, and field stakeholders around education and practical guidance. Why ABMA still matters in a changing boiler market ABMA has been in place since 1888, but this discussion is not about preserving old structures for their own sake. Scott and Shaunica describe an association that has expanded beyond traditional manufacturer membership into a broader supply-chain view of the boiler room. That includes boiler, burner, deaerator, and economizer manufacturers, component suppliers, service providers, consultants, and manufacturer representatives. That broader view matters because boiler performance does not begin and end with the vessel itself. Decisions made across installation, controls, service, and water treatment shape efficiency, reliability, and long-term asset life. Education that reaches the people actually running boiler rooms A strong theme throughout the conversation is education. ABMA is reaching beyond its own meetings to speak with healthcare engineers, food processors, facility engineers, and other sectors that rely on boilers every day. Scott outlines the practical angle of that work: what operators should be doing on a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly basis to keep boiler rooms safe and efficient. Shaunica adds that ABMA is building toward a larger resource center, on-demand materials, and expanded access to white papers and best-practice guidance. They also discuss partnerships with trade schools and Maritime Academies as part of a larger workforce strategy. For water professionals, that matters because better-informed boiler operators create better conditions for treatment programs to succeed.   Water treatment is not a side issue One of the clearest takeaways is that water treatment remains central to boiler performance. ABMA's work with the Association of Water Technologies is helping align deaeration and chemical treatment perspectives into a single, co-branded guidance document. That effort is meant to reduce finger-pointing, improve technical clarity, and give end users a more unified message. Scott is direct about the operational stakes: poor water treatment drives scaling, damages equipment, and undermines efficiency. The discussion also pushes back on outdated assumptions about boiler rooms, highlighting gains in efficiency, modern controls, remote monitoring, retrofit options, and emerging technologies such as hydrogen, dual-fuel, and hybrid systems. Boiler systems may be longstanding infrastructure, but the thinking around them cannot stay static. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps  01:18 - Trace introduces ABMA, explains its relevance to water treaters, and previews the upcoming ABMA Expo   03:11 - Trace gives a concise history of boilers, from early steam vessels to modern high-efficiency systems  07:36 - Scott Lynch and Shaunica Jayson join the show and introduce themselves and their roles at ABMA  08:18 - Scott explains how ABMA has evolved from a manufacturer-focused association into a broader industry organization spanning the full boiler supply chain  10:27 - Shaunica outlines ABMA's four membership categories, including manufacturers, associate members, consultants, and manufacturer reps   33:18 - The discussion shifts to the ABMA–AWT partnership and the co-branded water treatment guideline   34:58 - Scott explains why deaeration and water treatment need to be addressed together to produce useful technical guidance  36:31 - Shaunica shares what ABMA learned from attending the AWT conference and why the partnership helps reduce finger-pointing between disciplines  38:19 - The conversation moves to Boiler Expo, including why ABMA launched it and how it is designed to serve the full boiler community   40:49 - Shaunica explains the co-location with the Biomass Conference & Expo and highlights ABMA's BUILT and WIBI communities  45:18 - Scott and Shaunica close with their key takeaways: the boiler industry is evolving, and ABMA is a resource for the field  53:50 - Words of Water with James    Connect with Shaunica Jayson   Email: Shaunica@abma.com   Website: American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA)  LinkedIn: Shaunica Jayson | LinkedIn   Connect with Scott Lynch  Email: scott@abma.com   Website: American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA)  LinkedIn: Scott Lynch, CAE | LinkedIn      Quotes "Our official mission is to lead, advance and provide solutions to the boiler industry." "Our vision is boilers are recognized for advancing energy sustainability and powering people's lives." "The boiler industry continues to evolve and innovate." "We love our members. We love our operators. We love our water treaters."   Guest Resources Mentioned   ABMA – BOILER EXPO 2026  ABMA – BOILER EXPO 2026  The Association of Facilities Engineering (AFE)   The ABMA Boiler Expo Registration   ABMA – Technical Papers  ABMA – Technical Resources  ABMA – Free Boiler Maintenance Schedule  AWT Technical Papers   ABMA Boiler Expo 2026 Pre Conference (Boiler Water Treatment Workshops)  ABMA - Boiler Industry Leaders of Tomorrow (BILT)    Women in the Boiler Industry (WIBI) Professional Community  ABMA – Ladies of Steam    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is a salt solution, generally sodium chloride, used during the regeneration process in ion exchange.  Can you guess the word?    2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    57 min
  7. Born into Water Treatment: Tom Brandvold on AWT's Origin Story and a Life in the Industry

    MAR 20

    Born into Water Treatment: Tom Brandvold on AWT's Origin Story and a Life in the Industry

    Tom Brandvold, CWT, has lived industrial water treatment from the inside out. In this conversation, he traces that path from sweeping floors and running sample bottles as a kid to leading Premier Water and Energy Technology and serving as a former president of Association of Water Technologies (AWT). The result is not just a career story. It is a useful look at how credibility, collaboration, and standards are built over time in this industry. How Association of Water Technologies (AWT) was formed One of the most valuable parts of this discussion is Tom's explanation of how Association of Water Technologies (AWT) began. The association did not start primarily as a training platform or networking group. It grew out of a business crisis in the 1980s, when independent water treaters were struggling to secure product liability and pollution coverage at prices that would not put them out of business. Tom explains how that pressure led a small group to create an insurance-focused structure that eventually required an association. From there, the collaborative side of AWT expanded into education, technical papers, meetings, and broader support for the independent water treater. Why Association of Water Technologies (AWT)'s culture feels different Tom also gives language to something many professionals have experienced but may not have fully defined: AWT members often compete in the same field while still sharing technical knowledge freely. He points to relationships as the reason. Trust, geography, and the practical reality of how accounts are won reduce the sense of technical knowledge as a threat. That helps explain why AWT has become a place where mistakes, lessons learned, and operating insight can be shared in ways that genuinely help other professionals improve. Why the CWT is changing A major focus of the episode is the next chapter of the Certified Water Technologist designation. Tom explains that AWT is pursuing ISO-aligned process work and ANSI recognition so the CWT carries stronger independent, third-party credibility. He walks through why that matters, what the CWT commission is doing, how the current process may change, and why he believes ANSI recognition will help the credential gain broader acceptance with customers, spec writers, government authorities, and technical institutions. What this means for professionals now This conversation lands on a practical point: the CWT is meant to distinguish serious professionals without making the credential feel inaccessible. Tom is clear that those already preparing should not wait. He also underscores that AWT technical training supports the body of knowledge, but it does not teach to the exam. For leaders, owners, and technical professionals, this episode is a strong reminder that industry standards matter most when they improve confidence, sharpen judgment, and strengthen trust in the field. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps 00:46 — Trace explains why AWT matters so much to industrial water treatment professionals. 03:37 — Trace shares the story behind the "magic button" and how it helps people connect at industry events. 07:20 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   11:05 - Words of Water with James McDonald 13:20 - Interview with Tom Brandvold, CWT, President at Premier Water and Energy Technologies and former president of the Association of the Water Technologies 18:18 - Tom explains the origin story of AWT 24:05 - Tom talks about volunteering within AWT over the years 34:14 - The conversation shifts to the CWT designation 37:01 - Tom explains why AWT is pursuing ANSI recognition for the CWT 48:11 - Tom and Trace discuss how ANSI-recognized CWTs could matter in legislation and water safety language 49:00 - Tom talks about the biggest challenge in the accreditation process: ISO 17024 conformance 53:35 - Tom makes an important distinction: AWT training does not teach to the exam 55:03 - Tom explains why professionals should pursue the CWT   Quotes "The association ah was founded so that those who joined could have access to this captive insurance market where we were self-insuring so that all of us could stay in business." "The veil of threat is removed, and you share very freely." "We are committed as a trade association to add prominence to the CWT certification." "If you want to distinguish yourself from everyone else out there, this is the way to do it." "My magic wand would ensure that everybody has safe drinking water" Connect with Tom Brandvold, CWT Email: carmac@premierwater.com Website: CRB Water | Safe, Sustainable & Data-Driven Water Treatment Solutions LinkedIn: CRB Water: Overview | LinkedIn   Guest Resources Mentioned  ANSI / ANAB Personnel Certification Accreditation  ISO/IEC 17024:2012 AWT Technical Reference & Training Manual AWT CWT Exam Candidate Handbook Kelly: More Than My Share of It All by Clarence L. Johnson Titanic Thompson: The Man Who Bet on Everything by Kevin Cook A.J. Foyt - Volume 1: Survivor, Champion, Legend Hardcover by Art Garner   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT – Become Certified Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind Fearless Pricing by Casey Brown 410 Unleash Your Pricing Power: Casey Brown's 'Fearless Pricing' Revolutionizes Business Value 154 The One With AWT President, Tom Brandvold, CWT 426 Sustaining Success: Tom Hutchison on Leading Through Generational Change 127 The One With Tom Hutchison   Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is a thin barrier that only permits passage of certain particulates or compounds to pass through but inhibits others. It is a semi-permeable skin of which the pass-through is determined by the size or special nature of the particles or compounds. Can you guess the word?      2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 17m
  8. From PhD to Pump Rooms: Jake Elliott on Wastewater, Efficiency, and Saying "Yes" Wisely

    MAR 13

    From PhD to Pump Rooms: Jake Elliott on Wastewater, Efficiency, and Saying "Yes" Wisely

    What happens when a water chemist leaves the lab and heads to the pump room?  Dr. Jake Elliott knows firsthand. A former PhD researcher who studied resource recovery from trade‑waste customers, Jake now manages accounts at Hydro flow in Melbourne, working with cooling towers, boilers, chemical dosing rigs and wastewater treatment systems. He joins host Trace Blackmore to discuss how rigorous research, regulatory compliance and process automation translate into practical field work for industrial water treatment professionals. From PhD Research to Industrial Practice Jake's academic background informs the way he approaches operations. While completing his PhD he investigated how to recover resources from wastewater permits, synthesizing municipal data with bench‑scale testing. Today he draws on that experience to design treatment systems and advise customers on cooling‑tower and boiler chemistry. He emphasizes long‑term efficiency: spending a little extra time or money now can save much more later. This mentality helps him balance the competing demands of design, installation, sales and service, and underscores Hydro flow's support for continuing education. Balancing Service, Sales and Efficiency No two days look alike for Jake. One week he is calibrating pH probes, inspecting cooling towers and designing dosing skids; the next he is troubleshooting filtration systems or negotiating wastewater discharge limits. To stay ahead of his schedule, he deliberately "drags things as early as possible" and completes visits well before month‑end. Jake uses the iPhone Reminders app to tag tasks by site, service type and system; location triggers ensure he never forgets critical parts. He advocates automating routine reports and allowing generative AI to massage field notes into professional correspondence, provided every line is double‑checked for accuracy. Even at the end of a long day, tools such as ChatGPT help him strike the right tone in customer emails. Regulation, Training and Risk Management Jake contrasts cooling‑tower regulation in Australia with the more fragmented approach in the United States. In Victoria every tower must be registered, documented and sampled on a schedule; non‑compliance leads to fines. The risk management plan – the term used in Australia for what many Americans call a water management plan – is a comprehensive document containing details of the cooling tower, associated chillers and a unique registration number. Australian practitioners follow the AS/NZS 3666 standard, and third‑party RMP reviews and audits are annual requirements. Jake notes that an equivalent certification does not yet exist for international candidates seeking the Certified Water Technologist designation, although metric‑based exams may be under consideration. Sales, Communication and Mentorship Serving existing customers often means identifying the real decision drivers. Jake categorizes site priorities – cost reduction, profit increase, ease of use and product quality – and tailors proposals accordingly. He maintains open communication with influencers while gently probing approval limits, sometimes splitting quotes so that local managers can sign off without escalating requests. Mentorship is both a given and a goal: Hydro flow holds monthly meetings where technicians, account managers and production staff share problems and solutions, allowing juniors to benefit from seasoned expertise. Jake encourages newcomers to simply "do it" – the blend of hands‑on work, autonomy and flexibility makes industrial water treatment a rewarding career. In his lightning‑round advice he urges his younger self to be selective about commitments and to automate early. Dr. Jake Elliott demonstrates that a rigorous scientific background and a passion for efficiency translate into better service, improved compliance and happier customers. His tips on process automation, risk management and sales communication help water professionals navigate a complex landscape while maintaining work–life balance. Listen to the full conversation above. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps  01:14 - Trace Blackmore notes the conclusion of the 2026 AWT Technical Training (Session 1) and then shares his doctor's office story 09:15 - Words of Water with James McDonald  11:45 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   15:32 - Introduction with Jake Elliott, PhD, Senior Account Manager at Hydro Flow  18:47 - Jake's Advice for those taking a Doctorate Degree 23:19 - How Jake came to work at Hydro Flow 44:24 - Tips from Jake   Quotes "Very happy to spend a little bit of extra time or money now to save a lot of time or money later." "If you can get some of your thoughts down and then let ChatGPT massage that into something that is good communication, again, double check it before you send it." "I would tell myself to be selective in what you say yes to … automate hard, automate early." "Autonomy, flexibility. It's really the perfect package, definitely for me and for people like me." Connect with Jake Elliott, PhD  Email: jakeelliott91@hotmail.com   Website: https://hydroflow.com.au/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hydro-flow/   Jake Elliott | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   AS / NZS 3666 Air-Handling and Water Systems of Buildings - Western Australia Legislation and guidelines for cooling towers and water systems - Government of Western Australia (Department of Health) ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 12080   Alien Clay by Adrian Tchaikovsky (Audible audiobook) Dropbear (Paperback) by Evelyn Araluen (Author)  The Winner's Mindset Audible Logo Audible Audiobook – Unabridged Shane Watson (Author, Narrator)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT - Become Certified Google Earth Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is the curved upper surface of a liquid in a tube, such as a graduated cylinder.  Can you guess the word?    2026 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 8m
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About

The podcast where we scale up on knowledge so we don't scale up our systems. Find out why working in Industrial Water Treatment is the best job in the world. Hear industry experts share their knowledge and stories. Learn about technologies, methods, and career journeys. Join podcast host Trace Blackmore, former AWT President, LEED, and CWT every Friday for a new episode.

Information

  • Creator
    scalinguph2o.com
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    489
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2018 All Rights Reserved, Blackmore Enterprises, Inc.
  • Show Website
    Scaling UP! H2O

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