HCWA - Henry County Water Authority
01/20/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/19/2025 21:40
HCWA celebrates Leadership Academy graduates
HCWA celebrates Leadership Academy graduates
During last month's Henry County Water Authority (HCWA) Christmas luncheon, employees celebrated six individuals who were recognized for completing the utility's third annual Leadership Academy.
Now the Authority staff has turned its attention to the seven individuals who have been selected to be a part of the 2025 HCWA Leadership Academy class, marking the fourth year of the program. Employees who desire for this means of professional development step forward as self-nominees but must receive approval from their Division Manager. The Authority's Effective Utility Management (EUM) Employee Leadership and Development Committee then votes on the nominations to fill the annual class.
This year's HCWA Leadership Academy class includes Andrew Acosta, Spencer Lauderdale, Tramaine LaMotte, Joe Nutt, Ryan Reyes, Tyler Watkins, and Lonnie Yeager. Graduates of the 2024 HCWA Leadership Academy who were recognized at the end of the year Christmas Luncheon included: Todd Brackin, Al Gardner, Matt Hunt, Brandon Keller, Tabby Lee, and Chad Turner.
The HCWA Leadership Academy began in 2022, at the request of HCWA General Manager Tony Carnell, who put the Authority's Lindsey Sanders, HCWA Communications and Regulatory Coordinator, in charge of the initiative. Carnell sought a program that would equip HCWA employees with knowledge to better serve customers and the community.
"We have had participants in the Academy who have been at the Authority for three years all the way up to 18 years; so, it doesn't matter how long you have been here, you never stop learning and growing as a water professional, which is what I enjoy most about the program," says Sanders.
The HCWA Leadership Academy runs from January thru October, with participants developing a wider perspective of all aspects of the Authority's operations, in addition to learning about personal and professional growth opportunities while being mentored by a fellow water professional of their choosing.
The purpose of the HCWA Leadership Academy is to identify and develop future leaders at the Authority and within the community, while enhancing communication and cross-training among the utility's departments. This cross-functional approach to management training also cultivates more well-rounded water professionals to better serve in leadership roles within state and national water industry associations.
During the 10-month Leadership Academy class schedule, participants spend one day each month in a different HCWA department to learn the different professional responsibilities of each role within that department. The program also features "Lunch & Learn" sessions with guest speakers sharing their expertise on various salient topics.
"It has been very rewarding to see this program cultivating leaders within our organization," says Carnell. "Over the past three years, we have seen growth, confidence, and increased morale from employees who have completed the program, and some have already moved into positions of increased responsibility. The Leadership Academy ultimately reflects the willingness and eagerness of our employees to assure a bright future for our Authority."
Caption for photo:
The 2024 HCWA Leadership Academy graduates include (left to right): Tabby Lee, Matt Hunt, Chad Turner, Todd Brackin, Brandon Keller, and Al Gardner.
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Media Contact: Chris Wood, Ph.D.
P: 770-757-1681