Reed Downs
Russell,KY
Summary
Dynamic Water Distribution and Meters Superintendent with extensive experience at the City of Ashland, excelling in project management and regulatory compliance. Proven track record in enhancing operational efficiency and fostering team leadership, while implementing quality control measures to ensure high standards in public services. Strong communicator dedicated to community engagement and relationship building.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Water Distribution and Meters Superintendent
City of Ashland
Ashland, Ky
03.2014 - 10.2025
- Supervised daily operations of public works projects, ensuring compliance with city regulations.
- Coordinated maintenance schedules for infrastructure, enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency.
- Led project teams in the execution of construction initiatives, optimizing resource allocation and timelines.
- Developed strategic plans for urban development, addressing community needs and sustainability goals.
- Implemented quality control measures to maintain high standards in public services and infrastructure projects.
- Collaborated with city officials to align departmental objectives with overall municipal strategies and priorities.
- Reviewed design specifications critically for accuracy, identifying potential issues before they escalated into costly delays or rework situations.
- Resolved conflicts efficiently among team members, fostering a positive work environment that contributed to successful outcomes.
- Reviewed plans and inspected ongoing construction to keep work in line with project goals.
- Communicated effectively with clients throughout each stage of the project for transparency regarding progress updates as well as addressing any concerns raised promptly.
- Supported project coordination and smooth workflow by coordinating materials, inspections, and contractor actions.
- Mentored junior staff, leading to increased productivity and improved teamwork throughout the organization.
- Resolved conflicts between staff and customers swiftly and professionally.
- Monitored budgets and expenditures to maintain fiscal responsibility.
Distribution Crewleader
City of Ashland
Ashland, Ky
07.2007 - 03.2014
- Supervised daily operations, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.
- Trained new crew members on procedures and best practices for efficiency.
- Provided feedback on crew performance, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing strict adherence to safety guidelines and promptly addressing potential hazards.
- Monitored team members to verify work quality and address concerns.
- Served as the primary point of contact between crew members and upper management, relaying important information as necessary.
- Provided ongoing training and support for new hires, ensuring they were well-equipped to perform their duties effectively.
Water Distribution Operator
City of Ashland
Ashland, Ky
01.1999 - 07.2007
- Monitored water distribution systems for compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
- Conducted routine inspections of water mains and service lines to identify leaks or deficiencies.
- Operated specialized equipment for testing water pressure and flow rates throughout the distribution network.
- Assisted in maintaining accurate records of maintenance activities and service requests for reporting purposes.
- Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot issues affecting system performance.
Education
No Degree - Construction Technology
Morehead State University
Morehead, KY 08.1983 - 04.1986
Water Distribution Class IV License
State Of Kentucky Skills
Water distribution systems
- Project management
- Water distribution management
- Quality control
- Regulatory compliance
- Team leadership
- Budget monitoring
- Conflict resolution
- Safety compliance
- Construction oversight
- Staff mentoring
- Communication skills
- Labor relations
- Leadership development
Project management
Regulatory compliance
Quality control measures
Infrastructure maintenance
Team leadership
Conflict resolution
Performance assessment
Communication skills
Community engagement
Relationship building and management
Leadership development
Accomplishments
My team and myself completed a 13 year agreed order through the Kentucky State Environmental office.
In 2025 we were nominated for the Wooden Bucket Award through Ky. Rual Water Assiation
- Supervised team of 29 staff members.
- Achieved better billing and water loss numbers by completing commercial meter replacements with compound and ultrasonic meters.
Timeline
Water Distribution and Meters Superintendent
City of Ashland
03.2014 - 10.2025
Distribution Crewleader
City of Ashland
07.2007 - 03.2014
Water Distribution Operator
City of Ashland
01.1999 - 07.2007
No Degree - Construction Technology
Morehead State University
08.1983 - 04.1986
Water Distribution Class IV License