The day-to-day operations for our Maintenance & Construction crews have looked dramatically different for nearly a year. As many obstacles as the workgroup faced in 2020, identifying crew members who went above and beyond was an easy task for supervisors.
“Everything changed around us, and the weight of the pandemic made every effort heavy,” said Maintenance & Construction Director Ty Kovatch. “True character is revealed when pressure forces our strength to the surface, and we should all be very proud of the character M&C has shown this year.”
All Maintenance & Construction team members were given a special Water Bureau–branded sweatshirt to commemorate a taxing year, one that saw countless people selflessly work together to provide excellent drinking water to the Portland area.
These fifteen award winners are recognized by their peers for their great efforts during 2020. Read on to hear what coworkers and supervisors have to say about them.
Clayton Woodward, Northeast District
“I can’t think of a single negative interaction ever with the man. He has become a great crew leader in addition to a great human. Congratulations, Clayton,” said Charles Smith, Maintenance & Construction Deputy Director
Jose Hernandez-Andalon, Outer Southeast District
“Jose is a great team member who gets along well with others. Jose operates his equipment with situational awareness that helps keep the public an crew members safe,” said Finely Barney, Outer Southeast District Supervisor.
Jon Lieb, Field Support
“Jon is dependable and steady and is always there when you need him. A great example to Field Support and to the bureau,” said David Hernandez, Southwest District Supervisor.
Casey Weien, Restoration Crew
“Casey has risen to be an exceptional leader and mentor on his crew and has taken on countless new challenges with positive energy,” said Chris Redfield, Supervisor II.
Michael Bornhorst, Southwest District
“Michael is the type of employee that any supervisor would love to have in their district. Southwest is lucky to have him,” said David Hernandez, Southwest District Supervisor.
Codie Larsen, North District
“Codie always makes an effort to encourage his coworkers. His sense of humor makes coming to work an absolute delight,” said Nate Burton, North District Supervisor.
Lucas Weaver, Outer Northeast District
“Luke is diligent and cares about doing his best at all times. He has a can-do attitude, always looking for reason to finish a project and help out when called upon,” said David Syphard, Outer Northeast District Supervisor.
Logan Hazen, Construction
“Logan’s willingness to do any and all tasks, along with his infectious attitude, influences everyone around him in a positive way,” said John Dilg, Construction & CIP Supervisor.
Danielle Marcial, Administration
“Danielle’s performance this past year was remarkable. Her dedication has been an inspiration to us all. Thanks for being part of our team,” said Shawna Gawthrone, M&C Business Operations Manager.
Kate Christensen, CIP
“One word: fearless. Kate has stepped into the role of backup CEO and AEO for her crew during struggling staffing teams and has kept the operation cruising along,” said Chris Redfield.
Eric Wright, Northwest District
“I can never begin to explain my gratitude for Eric, but those who know him, know! Eric is hardworking, patient, caring, and a fearless leader. He treats our customers with the same upmost respect,” said Beau Brown, Northwest District Supervisor.
Will Goold, Southeast District
“William is always ready for action, never backs down when it’s time to put up!” said Johnny Jaramillo, Southeast District Supervisor.
Ty Glover, Stores
“Ty is always willing to jump and help anyone out. Ty gets the job done no matter what,” said Teena White, Storeroom Supervisor.
Donald Dorris, Locator of the Year
“Donald routinely supports his peers and the bureau with his willingness to help and his dependability. We are lucky to have him at the Water Bureau!” said Ty Kovatch, Maintenance & Construction Director.
Joy Crays, CMMS
“Joy stops in her tracks to help others to get the job back on track and sees it through to the end. Joy is the steady keel on the CMMS ship,” said Stuart Oishi, CMMS Lead.