The WAVE program engages students and emerging professionals from diverse backgrounds with the water industry through a series of workshops and attendance of the 2024 PNCWA conference. The workshops focus on the various paths within the water industry, networking, skills development, employment opportunities, and conference preparation. Each month until the conference, we will highlight our participants. Here is a quick introduction of Theresa, Celeste, Max, and Mo.
Theresa Passe
Staff Professional (EIT), Carollo Engineers | Boise, ID
Completed bachelor’s & master’s degrees in environmental engineering from Michigan Technological University
Why are you interested in the water industry?
I am interested in the ability to make impacts and protect such a valuable resource.
What's one thing you hope to get out of this program?
I hope to make friends with peers in the PNW!
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to ski and trail run! My favorite food to make is chocolate chip banana muffins.
Celeste Bryant
Wastewater Engineer, King County | Seattle, WA
Why are you interested in the water industry?
I am interested in the water industry because water has such a huge influence on our lives and the environment around us. I have always wanted to understand the work we do to minimize our harmful impacts and help keep our water sources clean.
What's one thing you hope to get out of this program?
I hope to get tips for networking and making better connections with others in industry.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to try new foods, travel, and play video games.
Max LaCosse
Associate Civil Engineering Specialist, Seattle Public Utilities | Seattle, WA
Completed a BSE in Civil Engineering from the University of Michigan and a MS in Higher Education Policy and Administration from the University of Tennessee
Why are you interested in the water industry?
Growing up in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, I have been surrounded by clean fresh water since I was born. I am interested in the water industry because I think it is a critical intersection for the advocacy of social, racial, and environmental justice.
What's one thing you hope to get out of this program?
I hope to meet peers and professionals in the field that are passionate about the same things I am.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to play and collect board games and read!
Mo Tilmo
Utility Management Analyst, Blue Cypress Consulting | Seattle, WA
Completed a BA in Communications and a MS in Information Management (with a specialization in Data Science) from the University of Washington
Why are you interested in the water industry?
I think it's really impactful and valuable work.
What's one thing you hope to get out of this program?
I hope to broaden my network.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I spend a lot of time traveling to compete in ultimate Frisbee tournaments with my club team.