Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association Logo

The Current


Episode 5: Tales from the U.P.

What’s it really like to run a water system in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula? This episode takes you there.

Recorded live at the U.P. Spring Water Conference in Harris, Eric VanLaanen sits down with seasoned operators for conversations about the challenges and triumphs of keeping water flowing in remote communities.

Hear from:

  • Bill Anderson in Ishpeming, replacing 10 miles of pipe and using tech that detects running toilets.

  • Mark O'Neill in Marquette, talks about his team winning best tasting water in the UP.

  • Larry Sundling from Bay College, sharing stories from decades of training operators.

  • Rob Spreitzer in Gladstone, running a system with gear from the 1930s.

  • Bob Tervonen in Ironwood, who helped cut water loss from 70% to 28%.

These on-the-ground stories are filled with grit, humor, and insight, part history, part technical deep-dive, and all heart. Whether you're in the industry or just curious how clean water gets to your tap, this one’s for you.

LISTEN NOW

Inaugural Episode 0: Listen Here

The Current is a podcast series by the Michigan Section AWWA offering insights and useful career information for those in the water section. 

Interested in being featured on the podcast in 2024?

Contact Stacey Kukkonen, Communications Coordinator.