Welcome to ISAWWA's Mentee Profiles

Tyler Abbott

Tyler Abbott is a Public Works Supervisor for the Village of Dawson who has been in the water industry for less than 5 years. He is working towards his Class B Water License and is hoping to learn how to become a better supervisor and water operator. The areas of growth he would like to strengthen include time management, planning, and the knowledge base required to pass his water licensing tests. Tyler’s strengths include public relations, lab testing, and water loss.

Tyler is interested in a traditional one-on-one mentoring relationship. Outside of work, Tyler enjoys storm chasing, model railroading, and spending time with his son.

Crisite Telfair

Cristie Telfair is a water service inspector with the City of Rockford who is studying to become an operator. On a day to day basis, Cristie handles delinquent water accounts and investigates leaks. She has been in the water industry for less than 5 years and is hoping to learn from someone who can help direct her in where to go and what to do to further her career. She has great customer service skills and is adept at using the computer.

Outside of work, Cristie enjoys relaxing in the pool.

Jeffery Wells

Jeffery Wells is a Maintenance Worker and the Head of Distribution for the Village of Buffalo Grove with a Class C Water License. He is in charge of maintaining the distribution portion of the water department and works as an on call water employee who handles main breaks, hydrant repairs, valve maintenance, and project management. Jeffery has been in the public works sector for six years and is interested in networking and learning more about the water industry as a whole. He is looking to branch out and grow in the industry by looking for better opportunities to further his career. His strongest technical competencies include networking skills, station maintenance, and distribution maintenance.

Jeffery is interested in a traditional one-on-one mentoring relationship. Outside of work, Jeffery enjoys golf, outdoor activities, bars, restaurants, the pool, and wood working.

Joseph Girolamo

Joseph Girolamo is a Service Crew Tech for Joseph H. Huemann and Sons, Inc. with less than 6 years experience in the water industry. In the past, Joseph has worked as a part-time laborer for both the Village of Buffalo Grove and the Village of Hainseville. As a service crew tech for Joseph H. Huemann and Sons, a well drilling company, he handles water quality issues and well pump problems. Joseph is interested in improving his knowledge and skillset of advanced water treatment and reuse, groundwater, small systems, water quality, and water treatment. He is hoping his mentor could help guide him towards acquiring certifications in these areas and provide some guidance in the furthering his career in water works.

Joseph is interested in a traditional one-on-one mentoring relationship online or over the phone. Outside of work, he enjoys going fishing or unwinding around a big bonfire with a small group of great friends. He loves spending time with his family and enjoys playing video games.