My Profile
Kristi Casteel
Kristi’s career in the wastewater industry began in January 2002 as a temporary employee with Victor Valley Wastewater, where she was hired permanently six months later. For the past 23 years, she has held various administrative positions, all dedicated to supporting the operational staff. To broaden her industry knowledge, she has pursued extensive training, including the Wastewater Treatment Plants course at Cal State Sacramento, which provided valuable insights into plant operations.
Since 2010, she has been actively involved with the CWEA Desert and Mountain Section (DAMS), starting as a volunteer at various events. In 2013, she became Secretary and have been committed to maximizing the benefits our section provides to its members.
Purpose
The Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers (5S) is used by water environment associations (i.e., those working with sewage and sewage treatment) to honour those who have made a particular contribution to the industry.
Pennsylvania started the High Hat Society in 1937 and used the words "Sludge Shovelers Society" in its initiation ceremony. Later, this became known as the Ted Moses Sludge Shovelers Society. The second Chapter of the Five S Society was formed in Arizona in October 1940, the idea being conceived by A.W. "Dusty" Miller and F. Carlyle Roberts, Jr. There are chapters in many of the United States and in Canada, as well as the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.
5S chapters do not accept applications, but select potential members. Each inductee receives a badge in the form of a gold tie bar in the shape of a round-nosed shovel.
5S recognizes individuals active in protecting the water environment through participation in Local, State, and/or Federal sponsored activities for five years or more.