When you think about examples of great innovation, it’s easy to think about things like modern technology. The smart phone. Steve Jobs. A bold vision to change the status quo with a groundbreaking product or service. In the water/wastewater utility sector, that same kind of long-term, innovative vision for groundbreaking projects also occurs – only this time matters of public health, regional sustainability and the environment are all on the line.

Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD) in Virginia Beach, Virginia, has taken a proactive approach to several projects under the direction of General Manager Ted Henifin. Henifin’s career has spanned nearly 40 years and during that time he’s held roles in public works and utilities in federal and local government, and now regionally with HRSD since 2006.