In this episode of the Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Isaac engages in a rich discussion with recurring guest Jim Wollbrinck, focusing on water utility innovations. Fresh from the ACE 24 conference in Anaheim, California, Jim reflects on the event’s highlights and breakthroughs in the water utility industry. They dive into emergency response planning, emphasizing the advancements and networking achieved at the conference. Jim shares his insights on the modern technologies showcased and the significance of hands-on exhibits for better understanding and engagement.

About the Guest:

Jim Wollbrinck is a seasoned expert in the water utility industry, bringing over three decades of professional experience to the table. He has served in various capacities at San Jose Water, gaining extensive expertise in security and emergency management planning. Currently, Jim is with Metasys LLC, where he focuses on emergency management, business continuity, and security solutions for utilities. Additionally, he actively contributes to the Cal Nevada Section’s Security and Emergency Management Committee and the National Security and Emergency Planning Committee.

Also in this episode:

• ACE 24 Conference: The exhibit hall’s buzz and high engagement levels signify a post-pandemic resurgence in industry networking and technological innovation.
•  Displaying physical setups of products, like layflat hoses, significantly enhances engagement and understanding among attendees.
• Highlights the intricate dependencies between water utilities and refineries and the urgency of having a robust emergency fuel plan.
• Utilizing Civil Air Patrol and drone technology for expedited and comprehensive dam inspections in post-disaster scenarios.
• While AI offers substantial operational efficiencies, it also introduces new cybersecurity vulnerabilities that need careful management.

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About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a West Coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Isaac delves into the crucial topic of emergency response for utilities, with a focus on the application and benefits of rubber recycled hose ramps. Isaac explores the challenges utilities face in infrastructure management, highlighting the importance of avoiding unnecessary digging and asphalt disruption. He talks on the practicalities and advantages of using hose ramps, with a special emphasis on the effectiveness of rubber recycled hose ramps.

Also in this episode:

• Hose ramps play a critical role in maintaining utility infrastructures without the need for disruptive digging.
• Steel ramps are durable but may be heavier and pricier, while rubber recycled ramps are lauded for their effectiveness and affordability.
• The ideal size of a hose ramp varies, but four-inch ramps can accommodate a variety of hoses and scenarios.
• Proper installation and traffic control measures are imperative to prevent movement and ensure the safety of hose ramps in use.

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Connect With The Show:

Facebook | Linkedin | Website

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a West Coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Isaac delves into transitioning IT services for government utilities with Baron Wolt from TM Pros, addressing the critical role of emergency and disaster response for utility systems. They explore the complex landscape of IT managed services and their integration with utility management and infrastructure security. Baron discusses the unique challenges and differences that arise when shifting from private to government-tailored IT services. He emphasizes the necessity of complying with strict regulations and prioritizing cybersecurity. Moreover, the conversation highlights the threats posed by social engineering and cyber attacks on utility systems, along with vital strategies to protect these essential operations.

Also in this episode:

• The district has invested in 7,920 ft of twelve-inch Auraflex hose and corresponding trailers with engines to bypass any potential failure in their wastewater system.
• Training and practical hands-on sessions were significant in ensuring the district crew’s proficiency in deploying and managing the emergency equipment.
• External vendors played a crucial role in solving logistical challenges, especially for utilities without heavy-duty equipment.

Subscribe To The Podcast

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Connect With The Show:

Facebook | Linkedin | Website

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a West Coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

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Isaac reviews the recent Disaster Expo California held at the Anaheim Convention Center and shares his first-hand insights into the event, its standout speakers, and unique highlights.

Isaac applauds speakers like Forrest Lanning from FEMA, who discussed earthquake resilience and the Ring of Fire, along with experts focusing on California disasters and local emergency management efforts. While he appreciates the Expo’s focus on disaster management, Isaac also highlights some challenges, such as an array of unrelated vendors and distracting breakout sessions within the exhibit hall. Ultimately, he recognizes the Expo’s potential and looks forward to future improvements. If you’re in the field of disaster management or emergency response, this episode offers valuable insights to help you decide if this event is for you. 

Also in this episode: 

• Some notable speakers mentioned include Forrest Lanning from FEMA, who discussed earthquake-resilient building codes and the Ring of Fire, and Laurie Mazin Azura from the California Office of Emergency Services, who talked about California disasters and wildfires.
• The lack of focus in breakout sessions, distractions in the exhibit hall, and a mix of vendors that weren’t always directly related to disaster management.
• They could improve by attracting more prominent speakers, creating specialized tracks for breakout sessions, and offering convenience and attractions for attendees.

Subscribe To The Podcast

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Connect With The Show:

Facebook | Linkedin | Website

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a West Coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

A Work Still In Progress For The Future Of Disaster Management And Emergency Response

Utility Emergency Response with Isaac Alatorre

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By: Simplified Impact

Isaac is joined by Alix Stayton, the Emergency Management Coordinator for California’s Public Water Agencies Group (PWAG), to discuss the unique challenges faced by California’s diverse water utilities, emphasizing the need for tailored emergency plans and training.

Discover her journey from consultant to emergency manager, driven by experiences during Hurricane Katrina. She highlights the role of coordination and mutual aid among utilities, regardless of size, especially in tackling issues like wildfires and cybersecurity threats. Alix discusses the California Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (CalWARN) and its contribution to statewide assistance efforts. Gain valuable insights into the world of emergency management within the water sector and the ongoing quest to enhance preparedness and resilience.

Also in this episode: 

• Importance of Training and Preparation: Understanding how disaster response and relief mechanisms work, along with proper training, helps individuals and organizations align with established structures for more effective assistance.
• Versatility in Emergency Management: The versatility of emergency management and its applicability in various contexts.
• Critical Infrastructure Focus: Utilities play a critical role in disaster response, as they provide essential resources like water and power to first responders during emergencies.
• Collaboration Among Water Districts: Sharing resources, information, and expertise among these districts to enhance their collective preparedness.
• Mutual Aid and Support: Mutual aid and coordination with consultants to provide support functions during emergencies ensures that even smaller districts can receive assistance when needed.

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About Alix Stayton:

With more than 15 years in emergency management, Alix Stayton provides full-cycle emergency management services. As both a consultant and a staff member in the course of that time, she has worked on plans for public, private and nonprofit sector organizations and clients. Alix develops, delivers and evaluates training and exercises aligned with the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program. She has contributed to public health and emergency preparedness, response and recovery projects with cities, counties, higher education institutions, and various committees, working groups and coalitions.

A regular contributor to the field, Alix has spoken at the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters conference, the California Emergency Services Association conference, the Emergency Information Infrastructure Partnership Forum and others. She has led the LA City Business Operations Center during wildfire response and the Irvine Ranch Water District virtual EOC during the 2020 COVID-19 activation. She has been published in the American Journal of Public Health and Cambridge University Press. Ms. Stayton serves on the IAEM Children in Disasters Caucus and the Women in Homeland Security programs committee.

She is currently the Emergency Management Coordinator for Public Water Agencies Group (PWAG), providing support to 18 public (non-city) wholesale and retail water agencies in Los Angeles County. She focuses on preparedness, response and recovery as well as mutual aid and coordination with city, county and state-level response partners.

Connect With Alix Stayton: 

LinkedIn

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a west coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors. When

Navigating Current Disaster Response Plans And Unique Training In California’s Diverse Water Utilities | feat. Alix Stayton

Utility Emergency Response with Isaac Alatorre

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By: Simplified Impact

On today’s Utility Emergency Response Podcast episode, Isaac Alatorre chats with Gary Sturdivan, an esteemed emergency management consultant with extensive experience as a former emergency manager for water utilities, about the vital realm of grant-seeking funding for water utilities. 

Isaac and Gary dissect the intricacies of grants and hazard mitigation plans, shedding light on the distinctions between InstaGrants and Regular Grants, the grant application process, and the compelling reasons water utilities should actively seek such opportunities. They unravel the mechanics of how grants function and emphasize the substantial benefits they offer challenged water utilities. The importance of detailed hazard mitigation plans takes center stage as they navigate their significance in securing grants. Issac and Gary discuss grants for small water utilities and consulting fees. Gary shared his experience in the business, and they talked about the importance of FEMA ICS training for emergency management. Issac and Gary highlighted the need for tabletop training and shared exercise anecdotes. 

Also in this episode:

• The process of applying for grants
• The benefits of challenged water utilities
• Calexico Problems 
• CalWarn past and future 

Subscribe To The Podcast

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Connect With The Show:

Facebook | Linkedin | Website

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a west coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors. When

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By: Simplified Impact

Grant-Seeking Strategies For Small Or Medium-Sized Water Utilities | feat. Emergency Management Consultant Gary Sturdivan

Utility Emergency Response with Isaac Alatorre

On today’s Utility Emergency Response Podcast episode, Issac Alatorre explores the different lay flat hoses for water and wastewater.

Issac discusses three categories: rubber, PVC, and PU (polyurethane) hoses. Rubber hoses are not very popular because they are heavy. On the other hand, PVC hoses are lightweight and cost-effective, but they are only suitable for low-pressure applications. The best choice of hose is PU hoses because they are durable, resistant to chemicals, algae, and fungus, and they recover their full diameter. They have also been tested for longer lengths, which makes them ideal for water and wastewater bypassing.

Also in this episode:

• The importance of safety and proactive planning 
• Ozone resistant vs ozone resistant hoses
• The three types of PVC hoses: heavy-duty, medium-duty, and light-duty
• The pros and cons of PVC vs polyvinyl chloride
• PVC and what it is good for

Subscribe To The Podcast

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Connect With The Show:

Facebook | Linkedin | Website

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a west coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors. When in a disaster situation, a city, county, state, or government must consider all option

The Different Types Of Lay Flat Hoses For Water And Wastewater Applications