President Message

Greetings, Fellow Members and Operators

by Mike Norris

A lot has happened since we last talked. Regional Events are taking place, and I have had the privilege and opportunity to represent TWUA in the Abilene Region, the Arlington Region, the Killeen Region; and I have truly enjoyed meeting the various boards and learning from the ways in which each region functions.

McAllen has been canceled for 2022. This decision was not made easily or lightly. It was decided that with all the border issues and concerns related to travel costs along with poor numbers in preregistration, perhaps it would be in everyone’s best interest to bypass 2022 and focus on San Marcos in 2023. For those in South Texas and Rio Grande Valley looking for in-person training, come see us in Corpus Christi at Annual School the last week of September, or visit the TWUA online training program. For those with travel restrictions, another option might be to contact Norma Clark for details and set up an in-person event at your workplace.

“You bring about what you think about.” I want to encourage those taking a state exam to never accept defeat or resign yourself to believing you are just not capable. There was an operator that I was told about who attempted the wastewater “A” exam fourteen times over the years and unfortunately failed each attempt. This operator was nearing the end of his career and decided to give the exam one more shot. To his amazement, he passed on his fifteenth try. Coworkers asked what was the secrete to his success? His reply was something to the effect; I had to get it into my thoughts that I could see myself going to the mailbox and pulling out a license rather than a TCEQ Dear John letter. His coworkers had helped this operator study, and orally, he knew the materials. He was just one of those men who freaked out and second-guessed his knowledge. He would talk himself into changing answers. Basically, he was just not a good test taker.

“Failure does not mean the game is over – it means try again with experience – Len Schlesinger.” To FAIL is the First Attempt In Learning. When you get down on yourself, remember that Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times in his efforts to make the light bulb. When asked about the attempts, Mr. Edison said – “I have not failed. I just found 10,000 ways that did not work.” “Mr. Edison also said, A human’s greatest weakness lies in giving up.” The most certain way to succeed is to try just one more time.”

If I can leave you with encouragement, it would be – if there’s even the slightest chance of obtaining something that will make you happy, then, by all means, take the risk and never give up or accept failed attempts at anything you do. It is gratifying when it all comes together, and you accomplish your dream and goal.

Knowledge is a beautiful thing.

I pray that 2022 brings good health, prosperity, and purpose.

TWUA President Mike Norris