As an industry, we are dealing with some enormous challenges. Infrastructure dating back over a century must be upgraded to deal with seismic threats and dwindling natural resources because of climate change. The escalating frequency of wildfires and intensifying droughts is straining our systems beyond what they were originally designed for. And we are challenged to adapt to these changes while keeping our services affordable.
This is not a false dilemma.
And the only way we can solve our most challenging, most pressing issues, is by working together, by collaborating, and by innovating. And by challenging the status quo. With billions of planned investments in our infrastructure, there exists a unique opportunity to do things better. By fostering partnerships among infrastructure owners, academia, industry, consultants, and regulators, we will be able to confront these challenges head-on.
The Center for Smart Infrastructure (CSI) is a collaborative hub that will assist utilities in managing their infrastructure, water supply, and natural resources. Its goal extends to climate adaptation, enhancing water and wastewater operations, and supporting emergency preparedness for safer communities. Through exploration of cutting-edge innovations, utilization of remote sensing and monitoring technologies, and data-driven decision-making, the Center aims to revolutionize our approach.
The Center for Smart Infrastructure envisions a future where adaptive systems embody “intelligence for life.” Through this collaboration, the Center will bring partners together to provide innovative solutions that navigate today’s challenges, while ensuring a sustainable and resilient systems for the next century.
Lecture date: Friday December 15, 9:00-10:00AM PST
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Presenter
Clifford Chan
General Manager, East Bay Municipal Utility District
Clifford Chan is the General Manager for the East Bay Municipal Utility District. In this role, he oversees the delivery of high-quality drinking water to 1.4 million residents and businesses in 20 cities and 15 unincorporated communities in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, as well as wastewater treatment for 740,000 customers. Clifford oversees approximately 2,000 employees with an annual budget of $2.7 billion.
He has worked in the water industry for over 26 years. As General Manager, he balances the continued demands of maintaining critical infrastructure and financial stability through innovation and long-term water and wastewater planning. His experience includes leadership roles with the California Urban Water Agencies, the Water Research Foundation, the American Water Works Association, and WateReuse California.
Prior to joining the District, he was a consulting engineer and worked on a variety of environmental and geotechnical projects. Mr. Chan received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in civil engineering from the University of California at Berkeley and is a registered Professional Engineer in the state of California.
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