Dispatch Coordinator Maria Michalek and her team of Dispatchers are on PWSA’s front lines, fielding urgent water and sewer emergencies for customers that call into our emergency dispatch line 24/7/365. We sat down with Maria to learn more about her and her work and, with the holidays upon us, reaffirm for our customers who they should contact in a potential water or sewer emergency.
Why do you like working for PWSA? I have a unique connection to PWSA, one that goes back through my family history. My great-grandfather, Nunziato Liberto, worked as a Laborer for what was then the city’s water department from 1936 – 1956. My grandfather, Nunzio Liberto, was a Plant Foreman for the city and then for PWSA from 1956 – 1998. My grandfather still reminisces about this time, and I always love hearing his stories. In a way, they paved the way for me to work for a great organization.
What sort of impact do you hope to have at PWSA? I hope our customers leave any interaction with us with the confidence that we have their best interests in mind. The tightly knit Dispatch team is made up of caring, empathetic individuals, and we try to address every situation as if we were helping a family member.
What are your favorite challenges to tackle? I love when I’m able to take an incoming customer issue, troubleshoot the problem, and provide a successful solution. The sense of relief that I hear from their voice makes it all worth it!
What’s an interesting fact that we don’t know about you? I’ve always loved to travel any chance I get! Whether that’s around the United States or internationally, experiencing new places gives me such joy, especially with my family in tow.
How can customers report emergencies during the holiday season? The quickest way for customers to report emergencies is to dial 412-255-2423 and press 1 to report your emergency at any time. Examples of emergencies include low or no water pressure, a suspected water main break, or a sewage backup. Customers with a non-emergency issue (such as billing or general questions), can call Customer Service at 412-255-2423 (press 5) during normal business hours, Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., or simply fill out our Report an Issue webform online.
