Webinars
SJW is pleased to host a series of webinars covering popular topics. These live, interactive Zoom events feature in-house experts from a range of departments. Each presenter summarizes information frequently requested by SJW customers, and a moderator facilitates a live Q&A portion to follow.
Past Webinars
Environmental Management: Stewardship & Sustainability
Date: Thursday, July 27, 2023
Presenter: Jared Lewis
Description: SJW has a long history of sustainable environmental management as one of the region’s largest private land managers. As a public utility, SJW is deeply committed to protection and sustainable management of water and natural resources. These commitments are also fundamental to ensuring reliable and high-quality water for over one million Santa Clara County residents.
This webinar provided an overview of SJW’s Environmental Management and Stewardship programs, and highlights some of the company’s key initiatives to enhance natural resource and ecological outcomes for the pristine watersheds in the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond.
Jared Lewis
Jared Lewis is a resource ecologist with over two decades of regional work in sustainability and environmental program management. His work focuses on the intersection of science, policy and environmental management, with a special interest in climate and adaptation strategies. As SJW’s Manager of Environmental Planning and Natural Resources, Jared oversees programs supporting sustainable surface water supply and natural resource management across SJW lands. Prior to SJW,
Jared served as the environmental services practice lead at A-T-S, an engineering and environmental consulting firm in San Francisco. In addition to his work with SJW, Jared serves on the board of directors for the Santa Clara County Firesafe Council and Guadalupe River Park Conservancy, and as a Core Team member for the Santa Cruz Mountains Stewardship Network. He holds an MSc in ecology from GMC and a post-graduate certificate in geographic information science (GISc) from San Francisco State University.
Maintaining The Water Flow
Date: Wednesday, February 8, 2023
Presenters: Gil Rivas & Kevin Olivo
Description: Keeping the water flowing for customers is one of our top priorities. This includes ensuring our infrastructure is up to date to minimize issues like leak repairs. Topics covered:
- Leak repair
- Capital improvement initiatives
- Preventative maintenance activities
- Safety and environmental compliance
- Advanced Leak Detection program
Gil Rivas
Gil Rivas is the Director of the Distribution System department for SJW. His career spans more than 25 years in the areas of construction and distribution operations. Gil is currently responsible for leading the company’s largest department. Gil holds an MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California and a B.S. in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. He is a licensed A-general engineering contractor in the State of California. Gil also holds a Grade 5 Water Distribution Operator Certification and a Grade 2 Water Treatment Operator Certification through the California State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water. In addition, he is a Certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Prior to joining SJW, Gil served as a heavy equipment operator in the U.S. Navy.
Kevin Olivo
Kevin Olivo is SJW’s Distribution Systems Superintendent. After obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of San Francisco in 2014, Kevin accepted a role as a laborer within the SJW Distribution Systems department. During his time in this department, Kevin obtained a Grade 2 Treatment Operator and a Grade 5 Distribution Operator Certification through the California State Water Resources Control Board. Kevin was promoted to Distribution Systems Superintendent in 2020, and is currently pursuing an MBA degree at San Jose State.
Water Quality and Public Health Goals
Date: Tuesday, October 12, 2022
Presenter: Suzanne DeLorenzo
Description: Focusing on water quality and environmental stewardship ensures the delivery of high quality water to our customers. Hear from SJW’s Director of Water Quality, Suzanne DeLorenzo, as she discusses important water quality topics, including 2022 Public Health Goals, at SJW’s next webinar on October 12. Learn about the latest innovations focused on ensuring our water meets all state and federal standards. Water quality challenges will also be discussed.
Download PDF Presentation
Suzanne DeLorenzo
Suzanne DeLorenzo holds a B.S. in Biology from Monmouth University, an M.S. in Biomedical Science from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ, and a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering from Oregon Health & Science University. She spent years studying the influence of climate change on estuarine and coastal systems through the lens of molecular microbiology before making the leap into the field of drinking water. Prior to joining San Jose Water, she worked for Clackamas River Water in Oregon as the Water Quality and Conservation Manager, and the Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) based in New Jersey, as the Laboratory and Water Quality Supervisor.
Sustainability: Solutions for the Future
Mandatory Conservation Plan Public Hearing Webinar
Drought Response 101
2020 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan
Infrastructure – Building a Better Future
Advanced Leak Detection – Technology Showcase: Listening for Leaks
Water Rates – Everything You Wanted to Know and More!
Emergency Preparedness
Smart Water Meters
Water Quality
Sustainability: Solutions for the Future
Date: Tuesday, July 12, 2022
Presenter: Francois Rodigari
Description: Progressive and responsible environmental leadership is paramount to the water business. That's why at SJW, we're focused on the future.
Francois Rodigari
Francois Rodigari is the Director of Corporate Sustainability and Innovation at San Jose Water. His responsibilities include the development and implementation of a sustainability program and for fostering and leveraging innovation. His prior experience includes work as the Director of Water Quality & Environmental Services at SJWC, working at East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) in Oakland, California, Northern Testing Laboratories in Anchorage, Alaska, and the Alaska Health Project in Anchorage, Alaska. Francois Rodigari obtained a Business Certificate in Switzerland, a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Master of Science degree in Environmental Quality Engineering from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He holds D2 Water Distribution Operator and T3 Water Treatment Operator certifications, both issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board and a Grade IV Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the California Water Environment Federation.
Operations: From Source to Tap
Date: Wednesday, April 13, 2022
Presenters: Carlos Ramos and Richard Tapia
Description: Have you ever wondered how San Jose Water keeps your water running no matter what? Our team shares where your water comes from and more!
Richard Tapia
Richard Tapia has been in Operations since 2016 and currently holds the title of Superintendent. A 20-year veteran of San Jose Water, he began with the company as a Distribution worker. During his tenure at San Jose Water, Richard flourished in multiple roles within the organization in Distribution, Field Service, Conservation, Operations, and Treatment. He currently oversees the Distribution System Operator group. In this role, he manages distribution system production, pressures, water quality, tank cleanings, and emergency response. He is as innovative as he his passionate about delivering this cherish resource that sustains life. He holds both State certifications as a D5 and T3 Operator.
Carlos Ramos
Carlos Ramos is an Operations Superintendent at San Jose Water, based out of San Jose, California. He has a BS degree in Electrical Engineering from San Jose State University and his Master’s in Business Administration degree from California State University, Dominguez Hills. With over 12 years of professional experience in the tech industry, he joined San Jose Water 5 years ago and now primarily oversees the Control Systems Technicians and Industrial Electricians for the Operations Department.
Mandatory Conservation Plan Public Hearing
Date: Thursday, October 28, 2021
Presenters: Kurt Elvert & John Tang
Description: Due to the extreme drought, SJW held a virtual public hearing to share the its Mandatory Conservation Plan with customers.
Kurt Elvert
Kurt is Manager of Field Service and Conservation at SJW where he specializes in water conservation program design and management, irrigation evaluations, and customer assistance. He previously worked as a program director for Water Wise Consulting, and was a water conservation specialist for the Santa Clara Valley Water District (now known as Valley Water). Kurt has a B.A. in Environmental Studies from San Jose State University.
John Tang
John Tang is Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Government Relations for San Jose Water. His career spans more than 25 years in the areas of environmental engineering and public affairs. John is currently responsible for leading the company’s regulatory affairs, corporate communications, and government relations programs. John holds BS and MS degrees in Civil Engineering from San Jose State University and an MBA from Columbia University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in California.
Drought Response 101: Everything you need to know and more!
Date: Thursday, August 26, 2021 at 5:30PM PST
Presenters: Courtney Rubin and Kurt Elvert
Description: Two expert members of our Conservation Team led this overview of essential information on the drought, covered steps we all need to take now to reduce water use, and answered a range of questions from the audience.
Download a PDF of the presentation
Courtney Rubin
As Field Services Supervisor, Courtney runs SJW's CATCH program, connecting customers with water conservation experts and the tools needed to conserve at home. Previously, Courtney worked in both the public and non-profit environmental sustainability sectors, managing and administering water conservation and recycled water programs along with a state-mandated Cross Connection Control Program. She has a B.S. in Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences and Water Resources from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Kurt Elvert
Kurt is Manager of Field Service and Conservation at SJW where he specializes in water conservation program design and management, irrigation evaluations, and customer assistance. He previously worked as a program director for Water Wise Consulting, and was a water conservation specialist for the Santa Clara Valley Water District (now known as Valley Water). Kurt has a B.A. in Environmental Studies from San Jose State University.
2020 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan
Date: Friday, June 11, 2021 |12:00PM PST
Presenter: Kateline Lin
Description: SJW invited public input on its 2020 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) and updated Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP). During this public hearing, attendees learned more about these plans that help ensure adequate water supplies are available - now and in the future. A copy of the draft 2020 UWMP and WSCP is available for review here. Public comments on these plans were provided at the public hearing and can be submitted in writing to UWMP@sjwater.com.
The UWMP integrates many elements, including:
- Service area land use changes and population growth
- Historical and projected water demands
- Availability of water supplies
- Supply reliability under normal, single dry, and multiple dry year scenarios
- Water shortage contingency planning
- Demand management programs
The WSCP is included in the UWMP report, but is also a standalone plan that integrates many elements, including:
- Water shortage stages
- Shortage response actions
- Communication protocols
Download a PDF of the presentation
Kateline Lin
Kateline Lin is a Senior Associate Engineer in the Capital Planning and Asset Management department at San Jose Water, where she is responsible for master planning and capital budgeting work. Most recently, she has been the lead on preparing San Jose Water's 2020 Urban Water Management Plan. Kateline obtained a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering and a M.S. degree in Environmental Engineering and Science from Stanford University. She is registered as a Professional Civil Engineer in California.
Infrastructure – Building a Better Future
Date: Wednesday, April 28, 2021
Description: Learn how upgrades to our tanks, reservoirs, wells, and mains now mean long term stability for SJW customers. Engineers John-Carlo Guevara and Brandon Stieber share their expertise on SJW’s vast distribution system, and answer questions from the public on the impact these investments have on your water service and community.
Read more on SJW’s proposed $435 million capital budget at sjwater.com/GRC2022.
Download a PDF of the presentation
John-Carlo Guevara
John-Carlo Guevara is an Assistant Engineer at San Jose Water's Engineering Department. After obtaining his B.S. in Civil Engineering from Santa Clara University, John-Carlo accepted a role with the SJW Engineering Department’s Pipeline Design Group. Since joining the team, he has been involved with many potable and recycled water pipeline projects throughout the SJW service area under the company’s CIP. John-Carlo is proud to serve the local community by helping to upgrade and improve its water system infrastructure, ensuring access to clean and reliable water.
Brandon Stieber
Brandon Stieber is a Senior Civil Engineer at San Jose Water's Special Facilities Engineering Department. After earning his B.S. in Civil Engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Brandon worked for a small Civil Engineering/Land Development firm. He entered the water industry in 2015 with a position in SJW’s Special Facilities Engineering Department. Since then, Brandon has designed and overseen the design of tank, pump station, well, piping and control valve projects as part of SJW’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Brandon has a passion for the design of potable water infrastructure that provides a reliable and life-sustaining product to the community.
Advanced Leak Detection – Technology Showcase: Listening for Leaks
Date: Thursday, February 11, 2021
Presenters: Hannah Lin, Senior Associate Engineer, Mark Gutierrez, Leak Detection Technician, and Damon Rodriguez, Leak Detection Technician.
Description: Through years of innovation, SJW has developed a cutting-edge water loss prevention program that combines acoustics and sensors installed on fire hydrants to detect leaks before they become a major problem. This technology has made us an industry leader in fighting water loss, benefiting our customers and distribution system in multiple ways.
Download a PDF of the presentation
Hannah Lin
Hannah Lin is a Senior Associate Engineer in San Jose Water’s Capital Planning and Asset Management department. A member of San Jose Water’s Leak Detection team, she is also a key contributor to the Asset Management Program, and is responsible for asset management plans, studies, and initiatives. She holds a B.S. and M.S. in Civil Engineering from Stanford University and UC Berkeley, and is a registered California Professional Engineer and Certified Reliability Leader.
Mark Gutierrez
Mark Gutierrez is a Leak Detection Technician and a member of San Jose Water's Leak Detection Team — a group that lives within the Engineering Department. An 11-year veteran of San Jose Water, he began with the company as a Distribution worker. In this role, he maintained and repaired infrastructure. He has been at the forefront of the Leak Detection Program and Team since its inception. Mark has a wealth of knowledge about the program and loves working with customers. He is very committed to making Leak Detection a great success!
Damon Rodriguez
Damon Rodriguez is a Leak Detection Technician and a member of the San Jose Water Leak Detection Team. He has been with the company for 18 years, beginning in the Distribution Department, where he maintained and repaired infrastructure. He recently moved to the Engineering Department to focus on leak detection. He has been a pioneer in this field — instrumental in implementing the program and building the team.
Water Rates – Everything You Wanted to Know and More!
Date: Friday, December 11, 2020
Presenters: Sharon Whaley, Corporate Communications Manager, and Q&A with John Tang, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs.
Description: Together, Sharon and John will discuss how water rates are set, what you get for your money, and what to expect in 2021. Questions are welcome!
For more background information about water rates in 2021, go to our 2021 Water Rates page.
Download a PDF of the presentation
Sharon Whaley
Sharon Whaley is the Corporate Communications Manager at San Jose Water. She oversees the company’s social media platforms, brand collateral, and community outreach efforts. She has been actively involved in San Jose Water’s recycled water, conservation, and sustainability programs as well as part of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) pilot. Whaley obtained an Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from San Jose State and a Masters of Business Administration degree from Santa Clara University.
John Tang
John Tang is Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Government Relations for San Jose Water. His career spans more than 25 years in the areas of environmental engineering and public affairs. John is currently responsible for leading the company’s regulatory affairs, corporate communications, and government relations programs. John holds BS and MS degrees in Civil Engineering from San Jose State University and an MBA from Columbia University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in California.
Emergency Preparedness
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2020
Presenters: Jim Wollbrinck, Director of Emergency Management and Business Resiliency, San Jose Water and Don Schumacher, Lead Superintendent, The Connecticut Water Company
Description: We’ve gone bi-coastal for our Emergency Preparedness Virtual Open House with San Jose Water and Connecticut Water. Together, Jim Wollbrinck of SJW and Don Schumacher of Connecticut Water, respected leads of emergency management and security, break down information that all customers should be aware of in the event of an emergency. Find out how a major earthquake or fire could affect your power and water lines, how much water and other supplies a typical household needs, and best practices for securing these items.
For more information on our Emergency Preparedness page.
Download a PDF of the presentation
Jim Wollbrinck
Jim Wollbrinck is responsible for all aspects of Emergency Management (Plans, Procedures, Training and Exercise) as well as Corporate Security Systems and Procedures. He participates in many organizations in the security, business continuity and emergency preparedness fields at a local, state and national level. A graduate of USF with a B.S. in Applied Economics, Wollbrinck also holds a Grade 3 Water Treatment Operator Certification through the California State Water Resources Control Boards, Division of Drinking Water, and is a former Senior Member of the American Society for Quality.
Don Schumacher
Don Schumacher is the Lead Superintendent for The Connecticut Water Company. He is responsible for leading the company’s programs on Safety, Emergency Management, and Physical Security. Mr. Schumacher holds both a Class 2 Water Distribution Operator’s and Class 2 Water Treatment Operator’s Licenses. He is also Board Certified in Security Management as a Certified Protection Professional.
Smart Water Meters
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2020
Presenter: Kateline Lin, P.E., Associate Engineer
Description: Smart water meters represent the next generation of water meter technology. You can check your water usage at the touch of button anytime, monitor for leaks, set up usage notifications, and more. Join our webinar to learn more about SJW’s roadmap to bringing smart water meters to you!
For more background information about smart meters, go to our Advanced Metering Infrastructure page.
Download a PDF of the presentation
Kateline Lin
Kateline Lin is a Senior Associate Engineer in the Capital Planning and Asset Management department at San Jose Water, where she is responsible for master planning and capital budgeting work. Most recently, she has been the lead on preparing San Jose Water's 2020 Urban Water Management Plan. Kateline obtained a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering and a M.S. degree in Environmental Engineering and Science from Stanford University. She is registered as a Professional Civil Engineer in California.
Water Quality
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2020
Presenter: Francois Rodigari, Director of Water Quality & Environmental Services at SJW
Description: For Water Quality Month, our expert Francois Rodigari provides an overview of our rigorous water testing process, discusses steps SJW is taking to address PFAS concerns, and answers any questions you may have.
Download a PDF of the presentation
For more information about your water quality, visit our Water Quality page.
Download a copy of our 2019 Water Quality Report
Francois Rodigari
As the Director of Water Quality and Environmental Services at San Jose Water,
Francois Rodigari is responsible for drinking water compliance, distribution system water quality, and environmental compliance. He previously worked for East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), Northern Testing Laboratories in Anchorage, Alaska, and the Alaska Health Project in Anchorage, Alaska.
Mr. Rodigari obtained a Business Certificate in Switzerland, a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, and a Master of Science degree in Environmental Quality Engineering from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He holds D2 Water Distribution Operator and T3 Water Treatment Operator certifications, both issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.