April 19th, 2023 – South San Francisco, CA – Press Release 
Dos Santos was chosen from 5,695 certified operators across the State
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., April 19, 2023 – The California Water Environment Association (CWEA) awarded Manuel Dos Santos, Lead Plant Operator for the City of South San Francisco – San Bruno Water Quality Control Plant (WQCP), the 2022 State of California Operator of the Year Award, choosing him from over 5,695 certified operators across the State of California.
“We are incredibly proud and excited for Manuel’s recognition state-wide. His skills, knowledge, willingness to help others, and dedication to the WQCP and the community make him an excellent individual to be recognized as the Operator of the Year,” said South San Francisco Mayor Flor Nicolas.
The 2022 Operator of the Year award honors exceptional Operational Personnel and is based on the following criteria:
- Outstanding contributions to the operations of wastewater treatment facilities and the application of knowledge to improve plant processes in projects that advance the operations,
- Innovative practices, management systems, improved cost-effectiveness, and
- Employee professional development.
“Manny is an exceptional person, a team player who is always willing to help others and is extremely dedicated to our industry. We are honored to have Manny as part of our WQCP family,” said WQCP Plant Superintendent Brian Schumacker. “Manny embraces the CWEA’ s mission of empowering, educating, and connecting water professionals to protect public health and the environment daily. I am honored to have him as a professional colleague.”
Manuel holds a State Water Resources Control Board Grade III Operator License. Manuel’s career spans over 34 years serving in the water and wastewater treatment industry proudly serving in the United States Air Force providing clean water to service members and developing countries. He has been with the City of South San Francisco’s WQCP for 27 years. For the past 10 years, Manny has served as the plant’s construction liaison successfully coordinating the day-to-day capital improvement projects at the WQCP totaling more than 70 million dollars.
“I’m honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Manuel Dos Santos. “I love my job and enjoy training and developing junior plant operators so that I can leave a legacy for future plant operators to model.”
Founded in 1928, the CWEA proudly brings together professionals throughout the State of California. The CWEA develops, and delivers cutting-edge training, raises awareness of the water resource profession, and shapes the future of the wastewater treatment industry.
Congratulations to him I was able to see that department when I took the academy years ago.