The Public Works Podcast: Rob Thompson Episode

Episode Description:

Join host Shane Silsby as he tours the Orange County Sanitation District with General Manager, Rob Thompson. Discover how Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) is leading innovation in public works, from sustainable infrastructure to cutting-edge wastewater management. This episode features in-depth discussions, leadership insights, and on-site facility tours with the OC San team members keeping Orange County’s water clean and safe.

Timestamps & Sections:

00:00 – Introduction & Facility Overview
Meet Rob Thompson and get an overview of OC San’s new headquarters and mission.

04:20 – Rob Thompson’s Career Journey
Rob shares his path from electrical engineering and oil & gas to public service and leadership at OC San.

11:00 – Leadership, Culture, and Innovation
How OC San fosters collaboration, transparency, and innovation in a large organization.

15:20 – Headquarters Building Project
Sustainability, design choices, and lessons learned from building OC San’s new HQ.

20:10 – Project Delivery & Financing
OC San’s approach to project execution, progressive design-build, and innovative funding strategies.

27:45 – Key Infrastructure Projects
Highlights of the Seal Beach Pump Station, Bay Bridge Pump Station, and Ocean Outfalls Rehabilitation.

33:30 – Asset Management & Long-Term Planning
How asset management and strategic planning drive OC San’s priorities and project schedule.

37:30 – Biosolids & Environmental Innovation
Exploring new technologies like Supercritical Water Oxidation (SCWO) and deep well injection for biosolids.

41:30 – Water Reuse & Regional Partnerships
How OC San and Orange County Water District turn treated water into drinking water for the community.

45:15 – Facility Tours & Team Spotlights
On-site tours of the headworks, laboratory, primary basins, and solids handling, plus team interviews.

54:00 – Leadership Insights & Final Thoughts
Rob’s advice for future public works leaders and the importance of innovation and data.

57:00 – Outro & How to Connect
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