Colby Thorpe
East Wenatchee
Summary
Accomplished Project and Development Manager with over10 years of experience in water operations, installations, maintenance, and system management, including nearly5 years in a leadership role. Skilled at overseeing complex water distribution systems, managing capital budgets, and driving continuous improvements in system efficiency. Strong leadership and decision-making abilities, with expertise in regulatory compliance, construction processes and procedures, managing SCADA & telemetry systems, strategic planning and team development. I am seeking an opportunity to contribute my expertise to a forward-thinking and progressing utility district.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Project and Development Manager
East Wenatchee Water District
01.2021 - Current
- Work directly under the General Manager to assist in managing a full spectrum of water distribution operations, ensuring adherence to all local, state, and federal regulations
- Regularly schedules and oversees preventative maintenance, emergency repairs and system upgrades
- Assist Financial Manager with the development of the operational and capital improvement budgets
- Manage the Districts SCADA and telemetry systems, ensuring effective monitoring and control of water distribution processes, to include integration, repair and replacement of these components
- Represents the District in public and local government meetings regarding development planning and future projects
- Manage construction projects in all phases of development from planning and design to implementation and completion, including in-house, small works roster, private development and capital improvement projects while ensuring effective allocation of resources, timely completions and adherence to financial targets
- Attends regular meetings with the Board of Commissioners to provide construction and operational updates
- Assists in the hiring, training, development and evaluation of other employees
- Lead and mentor a development team in a culture focused on safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement
- Assists in the management of development and execution of long-term strategic plans, including personnel management, financial oversight, and system upgrades
- Responsible for property acquisitions; collaborate with legal and real estate professionals to assess property needs, negotiate terms and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations; able to evaluate properties for their suitability in meeting the District’s operational and strategic goals
- Respond to public inquiries and complaints efficiently and tactfully, maintaining positive community relations
Project and Development Assistant Manager
East Wenatchee Water District
06.2020 - 12.2020
- Assisted the Development Manager with plan reviews and general management of capital and private development projects
- Assisted with all permitting within the City and County; prepare agency comments throughout the permitting process until approval
- Assisted with the management of SCADA and telemetry systems
- Supported budgeting and resource allocation for operations and maintenance projects
Water Service Specialist
East Wenatchee Water District
06.2015 - 06.2020
- Installation of all water appurtenances; fire hydrants, water services, air vacs, blow-offs, water mains
- Conducted routine maintenance and repairs of District facilities; main leaks, valve maintenance, meter replacements, pump repairs, reservoir repairs, etc
- Operate an array of construction equipment; excavators, backhoes, ditch witch, dump trucks, welding machines, cut off saws, jack hammers, etc., while ensuring the safety of myself, coworkers and the general public
- Communicate with general public about complaints, temporary shut downs, leaks and general questions in a respectful and professional manner
- Prioritize the safety of work environment by setting up proper traffic control, atmospheric testing, blowers, harnesses, fall protection, trench shoring, etc
Education
B.A. - Social Sciences – Primary Studies of Business and Psychology
Washington State University
Pullman, WA01.2012
General Studies - undefined
Eastmont High School
East Wenatchee, WA01.2008
Skills
- Strong leadership and personnel management skills
- Expertise in SCADA and telemetry systems
- Project management and development oversight
- In-depth knowledge of water distribution systems and regulatory standards
- Budgeting and financial management
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
Certification
- Water Distribution Manager4 Certification – Washington State Department of Health
- Cross Control Specialist (CCS) Certification – Washington State Department of Health
- Valid Washington State Driver’s License
- Class A CDL
- CPR
Physical and Mental Capabilities
- Able to stand, walk, lift up to50 pounds, and work extended hours
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills
- Ability to perform tasks efficiently and independently
- Effective in motivation and encouraging team camaraderie
Timeline
Project and Development Manager
East Wenatchee Water District
01.2021 - Current
Project and Development Assistant Manager
East Wenatchee Water District
06.2020 - 12.2020
Water Service Specialist
East Wenatchee Water District
06.2015 - 06.2020
General Studies - undefined
Eastmont High School
- Water Distribution Manager4 Certification – Washington State Department of Health
- Cross Control Specialist (CCS) Certification – Washington State Department of Health
- Valid Washington State Driver’s License
- Class A CDL
- CPR
B.A. - Social Sciences – Primary Studies of Business and Psychology
Washington State University
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