Ensuring the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water is PWSA’s top priority. Just this month, Kelly Hays, Water Quality Manager, became the newest member of our team of water quality professionals. We sat down with her to learn a little more about her in this month’s Employee Spotlight.

Tell us more about your role.

I’m responsible for overseeing and maintaining drinking water quality in compliance with all state and federal drinking water regulations and requirements.

What made you decide to join Team PGH2O?

After graduating from college, I began working for PWSA as a temporary employee, holding Chemist and Quality Control Specialist roles. I left the organization in 2017, and as time went on, I continued to hear of the many positive changes occurring at the Authority. When I was offered the role of Water Quality Manager, I gladly accepted! It’s good to be home.

Why did you choose to pursue this type of career?

To be honest, I didn’t choose this career, it chose me! I’ve always been interested in pursuing a career in science, which led me to the University of Pittsburgh, where I earned a Biology degree. Until I started working at PWSA, Inever realized just how much effort went into reliably delivering safe drinking water to our taps. It was amazing to me!

What are your favorite challenges to tackle?

Ones that require scientific investigation!

What sort of impact do you hope to have on PWSA’s Water Quality work?

My vision for my group is for us to exceed all water quality standards and be the trusted source of information for our customers. We can accomplish this by setting water quality goals that exceed the regulatory limits and actively communicate those accomplishments to our customers. We have a strong group of dedicated water quality professionals that I am excited to work with to accomplish these goals.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Spending time with my son, family, and friends.