Water Operators
Meet Water Operators Across New Mexico
University of New Mexico
David (Dave) Thomas - Supervisor, Water Systems
Mr. Thomas resides at the Ford Utility Center at the University of New Mexico (UNM) where he supervises the large water system operations with the team (the waterdogs). He is certified with a level 4 water license and a level 3 waste water license. In 2024, the team had earned distinguised recognition from Industrial Water Engineering (IWE), in which they recieved the "Impact on Water, Efficiency, and the Environment" (IWEE) award. (UNM News)
The award was presented to reward the team's success in optimizing sample coolers at the Ford Utilities Center where they effectively reduced water conumption by utilizing process cooling water instead of traditional domestic water.
Read more about the team's accomplishments here!
David Thomas (middle) pictured with some of the water team at the Utility Center.
Mr. Thomas started his career in construction as he was a field hand laying pipe for Raymond Lee Dennis who at the time owned a personal construction business which had other branches in engineering and water systems. As he progressed in his career, he advanced in water systems. David Thomse chose this industry once he realized everything on this planet needs water. His favorite part of the job is knowing that his position and choices are for the betterment of UNM's campus. To prevent issuse before occuring in the systems, Mr. Thomas and the team always has someone on duty. By doing daily checks on the water systems, the job requires 24/7 maintenance, ensuring UNM has a constant and reliable source of water.
Thomas' advice to the youth is to be more water conscious, whether that be taking shorter showers or being thoughtful about how and where water comes from. In the interview, Beyond the Pipes: Exploring Waste & Water Careers, he mentions the NM Environment Department's pilot programs for the youth to start their water journey.
Learn more through his interview or by visiting the sites!
