(Not all regions offer Surface 1 which is a 24 hour class these above dates reflect all regions starting on Monday and offering 24 hour classes. Once we receive all the schools fliers we will post if in fact the school begins on Monday at 1:00 or Tuesday at 8:00 )
Check the TWUA Website for the most up-to-date information related to TWUA Regional opportunities. If travel and being in crowds cause you concern or your employer has not approved travel, please look at the TWUA Computer Based Training options. (https://twua.org/online-class-dates)
Annual School – The dates for the 106th Annual School are September 23rd –26th, 2024. Tuesday, September 24th, at 8:00 a.m., all training classes begin. The ability to pre-register for the 106th A.S. will be made available as soon as possible.
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES JOURNAL
( ISSN – 1051709X) is published monthly by the Texas Water Utilities Association, located at 210 E. Hwy 79, Hutto, Texas 78634 for Operators, Engineers, Managers, Laboratory technicians, Customer service personnel, Vendors, and other Professionals employed in, or interested in, the water and or wastewater industry.
Ten dollars of each annual membership dues payment to the Texas Water Utilities Association pays for a subscription. Nonmember subscriptions price: the USA $100.00 per year; $10.00 per single copy
$125.00 per year outside the USA. Periodicals Postage Paid In Hutto, Tx. And Additional Mailing Offices.
The Texas Water Utilities Association is wholly independent, and is not affiliated with the American Water Works Association, the Water Environment Federation, or any other National Organization.
Postmaster: Send address changes to: Texas Water Utilities Association – Journal 210 E. Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Texas 78634.
The Texas Water Utilities Association Journal is not responsible for facts and or opinions expressed by contributors or in advertisements herein. Editorials and comments do not necessarily represent the official policy of the Texas Water Utilities Association.
All inquiries should be directed to: Texas Water Utilities Association, 210 E. Hwy. 79, Suite 101, Hutto, Texas 78634. Phone 512-459-3124. Any materials accepted for publication is subject to revision and editing At the discretion of the publisher.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE: Jim
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Vicente Carrizales
First and foremost, I want to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all our TWUA members. It is truly an honor to be president of such a great group of professionals, all of whom share a common purpose: ensuring that the water we rely on is clean, safe, and delivered efficiently to communities across Texas. Whether you're a long-time member or a new member, we are all part of something bigger than ourselves, something vital to the health and well-being of our state. On behalf of TWUA, thank you for your commitment to this essential industry.
I want to take a moment to reflect on an important change that is beginning to shape our profession, something we all need to recognize and address. The older generation of water and wastewater utility professionals is starting to retire. These are the individuals who have poured their experience, knowledge, and hard work into making our operations what they are today. But as we say goodbye to the seasoned experts, we also face an opportunity a responsibility, really to ensure that their wisdom is passed on to the next generation of operators, technicians, and leaders.
It’s no secret that the water and wastewater sectors are seeing a shift in workforce demographics. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed an increase in retirements. And while the experience and expertise of these older professionals are irreplaceable, it’s important that we don’t just let that knowledge slip away. We have a collective responsibility to learn from them, to let them mentor us, and to carry forward the best practices and high standards that they’ve spent decades developing.
But that’s where the challenge comes in: How do we, as the newer generation of operators, technicians, and managers, bridge that gap and step into their shoes? The answer is simple and it’s the message I want to leave with you today: we need to embrace the opportunity to be mentored. There is so much value in the hands-on guidance of those who have been there and done that. Whether it’s learning about the mechanics of a pump station, understanding the intricacies of chemical treatments, or knowing how to respond in a crisis,
we can’t afford to overlook the importance of mentorship. The people who have been in the field for decades have learned valuable lessons, the kinds of lessons you can only gain through experience. We would be wise to seek that guidance, ask questions, and remain humble in our pursuit of becoming experts ourselves.
At the same time, it’s important that we don’t just see mentorship as a one-way street. The older generation has a lot to teach us, but we, too, have something to offer in return. We bring fresh perspectives, new technology, and innovative ideas to the table. The ways we think about data, automation, and systems management are changing, and we should not be afraid to share what we’ve learned in our own journeys. But the key is to find that balance respecting the knowledge that has been passed down to us, while also contributing our own ideas and energy into the evolution of our industry.
The truth is, we are the future of this industry. But the future isn’t something we can simply wait for, it’s something we need to create. As we move forward in this profession, it’s not enough to simply be operators. We must hold ourselves to higher standards not just for the sake of our jobs, but for the sake of the communities we serve. We have a duty to make sure that every drop of water that flows from our systems is clean, safe, and reliable. That requires vigilance, professionalism, and dedication. It requires us to be proactive, to always be learning, and to strive for excellence in everything we do.
And here’s the thing: When we hold ourselves to those higher standards, others will notice. Our teams will notice. The people we work with will notice. And the next generation of operators, the ones who are still learning from us, will look up to us as role models. So, if we want to see a culture of excellence grow, it must start with us. We must lead by example, day in and day out.
Leadership, as we all know, doesn’t always come from the top down. It often starts from the ground up, from the individuals who take pride in their work, who hold themselves accountable, and who inspire others through their actions. We have the ability to set the tone for our teams, for our departments, and for the entire industry. When we lead by
example, we help set the standard for the entire profession. When we demonstrate a strong work ethic, and focus on quality in every task we undertake, we create a culture of excellence that others will want to be a part of.
It’s important that we not only talk about holding ourselves to higher standards but that we actively demonstrate that commitment. This means going the extra mile to ensure the systems we maintain are functioning at their best. It means investing time in our ongoing education and other events where we can continue to grow and develop as professionals. And it means fostering an environment where every team member feels empowered to contribute, ask questions, and challenge the status quo if they see opportunities for improvement.
But the standards we hold ourselves should also extend beyond our technical expertise. We need to focus on cultivating a culture of integrity, transparency, and collaboration. In our day-to-day work, we face many challenges whether it's managing limited resources, meeting regulatory requirements, or responding to emergencies. But the way we face those challenges will determine how
well we serve our communities. When we approach problems with integrity, when we communicate clearly with one another, and when we work together as a team, we can overcome anything. And when we do this consistently, we not only ensure the success of our operations we set a powerful example for those around us.
Finally, I want to share with you how much I look forward to this coming year, I’ll be traveling to all the Regional Schools around the state to visit as many of you as I can. I look forward to hearing about the challenges you’re facing, the successes you’ve had, and the unique ways you’re working to make a difference in your communities.
by Russell Hamilton, TWUA Executive Director
Father, we bow our heads in respect and humbly say thank you, as we acknowledge that you are the creator. We take comfort in knowing that You remain in charge and control of life as we understand it. We need You, and we welcome You in all we do. We come into Your presence seeking Your grace, calm, guidance, and forgiveness. Father, we pray for Your mercy, and we ask that You guide, direct, protect, and bless TWUA and its members. Father, we thank you as we offer praise in the name of Jesus. Amen
The drought is still concerning in parts of Texas. Parts of Texas are getting rain, but watersheds remain dry. In West Texas, Lake Spence sits at 17.0 % (-0.6 %). White River is sitting at 15.2 % (-1.3 %). Panhandle - Lake Meredith is sitting at 38.9 % (-0.8 %), and Greenbelt is at 8.2 % (- 0.5 %). If you want a complete look at current lake levels, go to waterdatafortexas.org. The drought has never left for some.
For those seeking Live In-Person Operator Training –TWUA would love to come to your workplace and provide in-person training. If you have a meeting room and will help market to those in your area, contact Norma Clark (n.clark@twua.org), and she will assist with the arrangements. Please look at the TWUA Training Calendar (twua. org/training) and take a look at 2025 schools. As soon as the dates are available, they will be posted.
Lead Inventory—Your Lead Line Inventory Survey deadline was October 16th, 2024. To comply with the EPA, you must document materials for every service line in your distribution system.
Resiliency Training – (Resilience is the process and outcome of successfully adapting to difficult or challenging life experiences). https://www.tceq.texas.gov/downloads/ licensing/occupational/publications/rg-637-resiliency-requirements-for-water-operators-and-training-providers. pdf
Fingerprint—TCEQ’s preferred method of receiving criminal history information is fingerprinting, which will result in a more expeditious review of your application. There is a one-time fee for fingerprinting, but once subscribed, you will not need to repay the fee or get fingerprinted again if you have a current, valid occupational license with TCEQ.
Please note that the fingerprinting option is agency-specific; background checks conducted for any other agency or purpose are not accepted, as fingerprint data cannot be shared between State Agencies.
I understand that fingerprinting is NOT Mandatory at this time; however, the one-time fingerprinting process will expedite the application/renewal process.
For more information, follow the link https://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/criminal-conviction-notification
Key 106th Annual School takeaway news – 2025, 2026, and 2027 TWUA Annual School will occur in Waco. Clarence Wittwer became the Chairman of the Management Committee. Vicente Carrizales, was sworn as President. And Bill Brown ($2.00 dollar Bill) was voted in as the incoming Vice President.
The Story Goes Something Like This –
Once upon a time, there was a king who said to his most trusted and loyal staff.
"I have acquired one of the most beautiful diamonds in the world, and I want to hide a message in the ring that I intend to pass on to my successors after my rule. The message should serve me and others in times of desperation and struggle. It must be a short sentence that can be stashed under the ring's diamond.''
All those who listened were very clever and quick thinkers; they all could write passages and essays but not short sentences that are not longer than 2-3 words that would assist someone in times of despair.
They all thought but could not come up with what was needed. The king was a bit disappointed, and he went into his chambers, where his old personal servant met him. As the king's mother passed away at a very young age, he was raised majorly by this faithful servant. The king had tremendous respect for this man, and so he presented his current problem to him.
The old man said:
"I'm not wise nor scholarly nor well educated like the others sir, but I do know of a message that was passed to me. During my life, in the palace, I've met all sorts of people, and once, I met a wizard who was invited by your father. To thank me, he gave me this message".
The old servant wrote something on a piece of paper and handed it to the king. "But don't read it," he said." Keep it hidden in the ring and open it only when you have no other choice.”
Soon after, the kingdom was invaded, and the king started to lose battles. He fled on his horse, followed by his enemies. He was alone, and his enemies were many. With no other choice, a cliff lay ahead of him, and there was no way of escaping those pursuing him. He remembered the message inside the ring, he opened it took out the piece of paper and read the short message: "This too shall pass"
As soon as the King read the message, he felt a great sense of silence and empowerment enveloping him. A thick fog came in, and his enemies got lost in the woods. Their horses and the clanging of armor were nowhere to be heard. The king was thankful to his old servant and the wizard. These words were incredible. He put the piece of paper back under the diamond in the ring and embarked on his journey back to his palace.
The day he returned to his kingdom, everyone felt victorious. He was greeted with a big feast, and his happiness was captivating.
The old trusted and loyal servant stood beside him and said: "This moment too, is right for another look at the hidden message, Raja."
The king was amused, and he replied, "Now that I'm victorious, people are celebrating; I'm not desperate or in a no-option situation; why would I even look at the message?"
The servant said: “Listen to me sir, this message is relevant both in times of despair and in good times as well.”
The king opened the message again.
"This too shall pass"
The king again experienced the great internal silence he had experienced before. Though he was celebrating, his pride and ego disappeared and diminished. The king understood the true meaning of the message, and he was both enlightened and thankful.
The moral of the story
Just as everything in our external environment is constantly changing, the same is the case with everything in our internal environment. All our thoughts and feelings are like clouds in the sky, constantly arising and passing.
Keeping this wisdom in our mind can heal and bring us comfort in challenging times, as well as cherish and savor the beautiful yet transitory gift that is life.
Author unknown
Stay Safe, and Remember – we do not need all the operators in Texas to be a member of TWUA – JUST YOU ! ! ! !
CONTROL OVER
By Russell Hamilton
In the workplace, individuals have 100% control over several aspects of their lives to enhance their performance, satisfaction, and professional growth. Below are a few work-related areas where personal control is paramount:
Attitude and Mindset – What factors influence your work performance? How is your work ethic? Are you doing all you can to promote a positive and supportive work environment? Maintaining a positive and proactive approach to problem-solving promotes resilience and adaptability in the face of workplace challenges.
Time Management - If your workday begins at 8:00 a.m., when do you show up? Do you drink coffee and eat breakfast items on your own time?
Effectively organizing and prioritizing tasks ensures timely completion and reduces stress. Utilizing tools like calendars and to-do lists can aid in managing workloads efficiently.
As Viktor Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, noted, "Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances."
Work Ethic and Ethical behavior - Demonstrating dedication, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility reflects positively on one's professional reputation.
Upholding integrity and ethical standards in all professional dealings builds trust and credibility within the workplace.
Integrity - Refers to being honest and maintaining strong moral principles. Holding to ethical values and demonstrating consistency between one’s beliefs and actions without compromise.
Behavior and Actions - While external events may be unpredictable, personal behavior and actions are within one's control. Choosing how to respond to various situations allows individuals to act thoughtfully and responsibly. This conscious decision-making fosters personal growth and strengthens relationships. As the philosopher Epictetus stated, "It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters."
Adaptability - Being open to change and willing to adjust to new processes or environments demonstrate flexibility and a growth mindset.
Professional Development - Pursuing opportunities for learning and skill enhancement, such as attending workshops or obtaining certifications (licenses), contributes to career advancement.
Appearance – Employers often implement grooming and enact dress codes to foster a particular image (being careful not to discriminate). Do you dress, and are your actions one of a professional?
Communication Skills: Choosing to communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues and supervisors promotes collaboration and reduces misunderstandings. Have you heard the saying that a person has no filters? Meaning some things are better left unsaid.
Can you identify other areas?
Are you part of the problem or part of the solution? By focusing on these controllable factors, individuals can navigate their professional environments more effectively and achieve greater career satisfaction.
IF NOT, WHY? Do you know that TWUA members:
• Receive a discount (from 10% to 35%) on TWUA training
• Receive a subscription to the monthly TWUA Journal
• Receive free updates on regulatory and technology changes
• Have easy access to industry matter experts, vendors, and product providers
• Have the opportunity to apply for scholarship assistance for yourself or your legal tax dependent children
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES ASSOCIATION connect. engage. educate.
Work zones are essential for maintaining, constructing, and improving our infrastructure. However, they are also hazardous areas where road users and workers are at increased risk of accidents and injuries. Work zone safety is critical to any construction project, involving strategies and practices designed to protect workers, drivers, and pedestrians.
Importance of Work Zone Safety
The safety of work zones is crucial because these are highrisk environments where people and heavy equipment are frequently present.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), work zone accidents have consistently caused significant injuries and fatalities. In 2019 alone, over 700 fatalities occurred in U.S. work zones, affecting both road workers and motorists. Such statistics highlight the need for proactive safety measures to prevent tragedies and ensure a safe environment for workers and road users alike.
Work zones disrupt the regular flow of traffic, creating confusion and impatience among drivers. Reduced speeds, narrowed lanes, detours, and various work zone signs require drivers to stay alert and adapt their driving behavior. For workers, construction equipment, limited visibility, and the movement of vehicles around the site present significant hazards. Work zone safety addresses these risks by creating a controlled environment where both drivers and workers can navigate safely.
Common Hazards in Work Zones
Work zones present several hazards to both workers and
WORK ZONE SAFETY: ENSURING PROTECTION AND EFFICIENCY
By CHATgpt and Safety Committee
road users, including:
1. Vehicular Intrusions: Vehicles entering the work zone pose a major threat to workers. Drivers may accidentally veer into the work zone due to distraction, impaired visibility, or misunderstanding of signage.
2. Limited Visibility: Poor lighting or adverse weather can impair visibility, increasing the likelihood of accidents. This is particularly hazardous during nighttime operations.
3. High-Speed Traffic: Drivers may not always slow down in work zones, which is dangerous for workers who are often in close proximity to moving traffic.
4. Equipment Hazards: Construction equipment like bulldozers, excavators, and cranes are used in work zones, posing a risk to workers if not operated carefully.
5. Pedestrian Risks: In urban areas, pedestrians may come into close contact with work zones, increasing the chance of accidents.
Preventive
Measures for Work Zone Safety
Several strategies can be implemented to improve work zone safety for both workers and the public:
1. Traffic Control Devices
Traffic control devices, such as cones, barrels, and barriers, play a crucial role in redirecting traffic around work zones. These devices help establish a clear path for vehicles and guide them away from the construction area. Reflective materials and lighting on these devices enhance visibility, especially at night, making them more effective.
2. Clear and Consistent Signage
Work zone signage must be clear, consistent, and placed at appropriate distances to give drivers ample warning about upcoming changes. Signs should include information about reduced speed limits, lane closures, and detours, allowing drivers to adjust their behavior in time. Electronic message boards, which provide realtime information, are also increasingly used to improve communication with road users.
3. Reduced Speed Limits
Lower speed limits are often enforced in work zones to reduce the risk of accidents. Studies show that reducing speed limits in work zones decreases accident rates, as drivers have more time to react to changes in road conditions. Fines for speeding in work zones are often doubled to deter reckless driving and ensure compliance.
4. Worker Training and Awareness
Workers need adequate training to understand the hazards present in work zones and follow safety protocols. Training should cover the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe operation of machinery, and emergency response procedures. Regular safety meetings can reinforce these concepts and keep safety protocols fresh in workers' minds.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Workers in construction zones should wear PPE, such as hard hats, high-visibility vests, steel-toed boots, and
gloves, to protect against accidents. High-visibility clothing, in particular, ensures that workers are visible to drivers, reducing the risk of accidental impact.
6. Lighting and Visibility
Adequate lighting is essential for nighttime work zones to improve visibility for both workers and drivers. Mobile lighting towers and high-intensity reflectors can be deployed to ensure work zones are well-lit, enhancing safety in low-light conditions.
7. Communication
Effective communication between work zone personnel and road users is crucial. Radio communication devices, mobile apps, and real-time notifications can help drivers stay informed about work zone conditions and avoid the area if necessary.
8. Barriers and Barricades
Physical barriers, such as concrete barriers and crash cushions, are essential for protecting workers by creating a physical separation between them and traffic. These barriers absorb impact in the event of a vehicle intrusion, reducing the likelihood of injury.
Regulations and Standards for Work Zone Safety
Government agencies have implemented various regulations and standards to ensure safety in work zones. In the U.S., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provide guidelines and regulations for work zone safety.
• OSHA Regulations: OSHA provides comprehensive safety standards for construction sites, including work zones. OSHA requires employers to assess potential hazards and implement measures to protect workers. Standards for PPE, fall
protection, and training are part of OSHA’s guidelines for ensuring worker safety.
• FHWA Guidelines: The FHWA outlines standards in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which governs the use of signs, signals, and markings in work zones. The MUTCD specifies how to set up work zones to guide drivers and reduce hazards. It also mandates the use of warning signs and flaggers to improve communication with road users.
• State Regulations: In addition to federal regulations, many states have their own specific guidelines for work zones. These often include additional safety measures, such as stricter fines for speeding in work zones and requirements for enhanced safety equipment.
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Work Zone Safety
Technological advancements have paved the way for innovative solutions to improve work zone safety. Some of these solutions include:
• Automated Flagging Devices: These devices reduce the need for human flaggers, placing workers at a safer distance from traffic.
• Smart Work Zone Systems: These systems use sensors and cameras to monitor traffic flow and provide real-time updates to drivers about work zone conditions, helping to prevent accidents.
• Drones and Surveillance: Drones are increasingly used to monitor work zones, allowing supervisors to assess risks and spot potential hazards from a safe distance.
• Wearable Technology: Wearables equipped with GPS and sensors can alert workers and supervisors to potential hazards, such as proximity to moving equipment or vehicles.
Conclusion
Work zone safety is a vital aspect of infrastructure development, protecting both workers and road users from preventable accidents. While work zones present numerous hazards, effective safety measures such as traffic control devices, clear signage, and worker training can mitigate these risks. Compliance with federal and state regulations ensures that work zones are designed with safety in mind, and technological advancements continue to enhance these efforts.
Investing in work zone safety not only protects lives but also minimizes project delays and enhances public trust in infrastructure projects. By prioritizing safety, we can create an environment where construction workers and road users alike can navigate work zones with confidence, reducing accidents and promoting a safer, more efficient workplace.
and
but especially during
Environmental Group Southwest would like to send a big THANK YOU to all the essential workers and water professionals risking their own health to keep us safe and keep our state going. We know it is not easy to be ready to work 24/7 during natural disasters like storms and floods, but especially during new and unfamiliar situations like the COVID-19 pandemic.
making Please continue to be safe out there and know that we are with you. Much respect and thank you!
making. Please continue to be safe out there and know that we are with you. Much respect and thank you!
EGSW
all
There are no words to accurately express our gratitude. Your efforts are greatly appreciated and you all should be proud of yourselves and the difference that
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biosolids. Now, with more than 50 clients in Texas, EGSW has been solving grease and odor issues for satisfied clients for over twenty years. See the website for more products!
With the onset of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the Governor’s Proclamation of a state of disaster in Texas, TCEQ intends to offer flexibility to licensees and applicants who were in the process of renewing or receiving an occupational license and were impacted by this outbreak
In the interest of safety, paper exams have been cancelled through 2020 However, there are some computer-based testing centers that remain open. To schedule a computer-based exam, please contact the CBT centers near you to verify if they are still operating. For other questions or concerns, please email licenses@tceq.texas.gov
With the onset of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the Governor’s Proclamation of a state of disaster in Texas, TCEQ intends to offer flexibility to licensees and applicants who were in the process of renewing or receiving an occupational license and were impacted by this outbreak. Operators desiring to TEST, should contact TCEQ in regards to testing. There are some computer-based testing centers that remain open. To schedule a computer-based exam, please contact the CBT centers near you to verify if they are still operating. For other questions or concerns, please email licenses@tceq.texas.gov.
TCEQ Occupational Licensing Exams are Going Paperless!
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Occupational Licensing section has been diligently working on revising and converting all licensing exams from paper to computer-based testing (CBT).
We are pleased to announce that beginning September 1, 2022, all TCEQ administered exams will be available at approved CBT centers. TCEQ will no longer conduct paper exam sessions, with exceptions for Americans with Disabilities Act requests.
The only two exams not offered via CBT are the OSSF Site Evaluator and the Landscape Irrigator exams, which are currently being administered by the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX).
TEXAS WATER UTILITIES TRAINING SCHEDULE
To register for any TWUA Training Classes – the preferred method of registration is using the online computer based electronic process, activated by clicking on specific event(s). For those who do not have internet as an option you may complete the registration form and fax to (512) 459-7124 and additionally you may contact TWUA Central Office @ 888-367-8982. Please Note – Due to recent increases for training materials, class costs have changed. Early Bird preregistration is defined to mean 30-days prior to any training event. All registrations received after the Early Bird period must pay additional registration fee. Central Office strongly encourages everyone to take advantage of the Early Bird pricing and utilize the computer based (electronic) registration.
20-Hour Classes: (Early Bird Pre-registration) $325 member $425 Non-member Onsite $375 member $475 Non-member
24-Hour Classes: (Early Bird Pre-registration) $385 member $485 Non-member Onsite $435 member $535 Non-member
https://twua.org/online-class-date
https://twua.org/regional-school-date
https://tmts.twua.org/calendar
Important Information for 2024 Scholarship Seekers
Good day, the VM Ehlers representatives want to remind you of the deadline for scholarship applications for the 2024/2025 academic year. Also, I have attached a copy of the latest (2024) application. Please use the revised application if you intend to apply for 2024/2025 funding.
If you are a current scholarship (2023/2024) recipient and you wish to apply for scholarship funding for the 2024/2025 academic year. You can send your 2023 transcript along with your 2024/2025 application, this will provide the information needed for your Spring 2024 funding and for your new application. The second half of your scholarship award will then be sent to you.
If you are a current scholarship (2023/2024) recipient and you do not intend to apply for the 2024/2025 academic year you must send your Fall 2023 transcript to receive the second half of your scholarship. We must receive the transcript before May 15, 2024.
The deadline for submitting applications for the 2024/2025 academic year is January 15, 2024. It is important for the applicants to get their information submitted on time. This will be even more important to those who are in high school. Best advice: don’t wait until after the Christmas/New Year’s holidays to apply for a “State of Texas Academic Achievement Record.” Instead, it is recommended you request your records before December as early in the fall as possible. We have spoken with counselors and administrators at several school districts, and they indicate it is possible to get your records before the January 15 deadline, but they stressed that requests must be made early. Check with your high school counselor for advice on your specific situation.
Please don’t forget the foundation’s revised method of evaluating the applications. Applications were previously assessed and awarded points for the number of years the applicant or sponsor of the applicant has been a member of TWUA, their major course of study, the applicant’s plans after completing their degree, household income, academic record, and extracurricular activities. After January 2023, extra (bonus) points
were awarded to member applicants and applicants sponsored by members who are actively participating in TWUA events. Applicants will be awarded one point for each district meeting the member attended during the previous five years, and 15 points will be added for each year a member has served as an officer in a district, regional, or state organization. Previously, the average score on an application was 35 points, the 2023/2024 average score increased to 55 points. Nine applicants received an additional $1,000 with their scholarship award. To receive these bonus points, applicants must attach a copy of their member’s TCEQ training record of meetings or have their district, regional, or state secretary provide a letter attesting attendance or verifying service as an officer during the last five years.
2023/2024 was the Foundations most successful year ever. The Endowment Representatives and Board are confident that the changes made improved the scholarship application process and the applicants’ experience.
If you need additional information, feel free to contact any board members for assistance. They can be reached at:
Jim Siddall 1jsiddall1@att.net (469)371-8487
Norma Clark n.clark@twua.org
Russell Hamilton r.hamilton@twua.org
George Glispin gglispin@fordmeterbox.com
Lynn Short lshort@lspssolutions.com
Good Luck in your future endeavors and have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
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There are 3 steps in the TCEQ exam process.
1. application/payment
2. approval/conditional approval
3. designate testing location
You are not through the process if you have not designated a testing location with TCEQ!
Thank You
For this food and the nourishment that it will provide; We offer up our thanks and ask your blessings be applied. We appreciate those who prepared this meal; The love and work they put forth was truly a great ordeal.
For the pleasures and comforts, we often take for granted; Please accept our gratitude; and in us, may your grace be firmly planted. We’re thankful for the freedoms, that we have come to know; May your blessings continue to find us and your love be bestowed.
For the soldiers who are providing for our protection; Keep them safe, Lord, and comfort them with your direction. We lift up this great county and those who strive to lead; We pray they include your guidance, or surely we will not succeed.
For our friends and loved ones; we offer up our thanks; Next to health, food, and water, this blessing highly ranks. We ask you to be with those who are alone on this day; And forgive us all Lord, for times when we may stray.
For those who are ill and in need of your healing; We ask that you provide comfort and remove any negative feelings. Bless the doctors, nurses, and staff; Use their skills and talents, Lord, while on earth, on your behalf.
For your son and the gift he willingly gave; We can only imagine the surprise, when they found His empty grave. We ask for your forgiveness, for all the times we failed; Your blessings are amazing, as your love is unveiled.
