Irvine Ranch Water District
http://www.irwd.com/liquid-news/news-releases/archive/coro-fellow-discovers-wide-spectrum-of-water-at-irvine-ranch-water-district.html
Coro Fellow Discovers Wide Spectrum of Water at Irvine Ranch Water District
Published Thursday, November 17, 2011
Contact: Shannon Reed, Public Affairs Manager
reeds@irwd.com, (949) 453-5500
After a Month, Joaquin Beltran Learns What it Takes to Deliver Water to Southern California
When Joaquin Beltran joined Irvine Ranch Water District a month ago as part of his nine-month Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs, he learned there is more to water than just turning on the tap.
“It’s an intricate process to distribute water and deliver a safe product,” Beltran said. “Here, I’ve been able to see the big picture.”
Beltran said that he had heard of the Sacramento – San Joaquin Delta prior to his stint at IRWD, but did not know any of the issues associated with this valuable California water supply resource. He attended various meetings where Delta issues were addressed and interviewed key IRWD staff members to learn as much as he could about the water industry in such a short time.
“Politics is a large part of the California water picture,” he said. “I’m impressed with how proactive IRWD is in diversifying its water supply. IRWD is always ahead of the curve with water recycling, water banking and water operations.”
He was especially been impressed with the culture of IRWD, how customer service is paramount and that staff members have a true ownership in the organization.
“My take-away in meeting with (General Manager) Paul Cook is his leadership style and how he is open to all ideas,” Beltran said. “Staff members can be confident that their ideas will see light of day. The entrepreneurial spirit is alive here.”
Beltran was also impressed by the District’s connection to the community through the many tour and educational programs offered.
After his time at IRWD, Beltran returned to the Coro program, where he and the 11 other fellows are participating in a week-long media focus class. Eventually, the group will embark on a capstone project in South Los Angeles.
Coro is a non-profit, non-partisan educational institute supported by foundations, corporations and individuals. It began in 1942, originally to train young veterans in leadership skills. Since 1947, the program has grown to include Coro Centers in six cities nationwide, with 1,000-1,200 participants per year. Today, the Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs is a full-time, nine month, graduate-level leadership program that prepares individuals in the public affairs arena.
For more information about the Coro Fellowship Program, please visit the Coro website and for more information about IRWD, please visit our website.
.jpg)
