Terry Benton

Vice President Operations, SouthWest Water Company

Professional Overview
Terry Benton is an accomplished operations executive with over 35 years of experience in the water utilities industry. As the Vice President of Operations at SouthWest Water Company, he is responsible for overseeing the efficient and sustainable management of the company's water treatment and distribution infrastructure across several states.

Experience Summary

Current Role
In his current role as Vice President of Operations at SouthWest Water Company, Terry is responsible for leading a team of 150 professionals to ensure the reliable delivery of high-quality water to over 1 million customers. He has been instrumental in driving operational excellence, implementing innovative technologies, and fostering a culture of safety and environmental stewardship. Under his leadership, the company has achieved significant cost savings and operational efficiencies, contributing to its strong financial performance and industry-leading customer satisfaction ratings.

Career Progression
Prior to joining SouthWest Water Company, Terry held various leadership positions in the public sector, including Assistant Director of Water Utilities at the City of Arlington, Texas, and Director of Public Works at the City of Brighton, Colorado, and the City of Port Lavaca, Texas. In these roles, he demonstrated his ability to optimize operations, improve infrastructure, and enhance community engagement. Earlier in his career, Terry served as the Manager of Operations at the City of Grand Prairie, Texas, where he honed his expertise in water distribution, wastewater treatment, and municipal asset management.

Academic Background
Terry holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington, where he graduated with honors. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the state of Texas and has completed various industry-specific training programs, including the American Water Works Association (AWWA) Utility Management Institute.

Areas of Expertise

• Water and wastewater operations management

• Utility infrastructure planning and optimization

• Regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship

• Strategic asset management and capital improvement planning

• Organizational development and team leadership

Professional Impact
Under Terry's leadership, SouthWest Water Company has achieved significant operational improvements, including a 15% reduction in water loss, a 20% increase in energy efficiency, and a 25% improvement in customer response times. He has also spearheaded the implementation of a predictive maintenance program, which has reduced unplanned downtime and extended the lifespan of critical assets. Additionally, Terry has been an active contributor to industry associations, serving on various AWWA committees and advocating for best practices in the water utilities sector.

Conclusion
With his extensive industry experience, proven track record of operational excellence, and commitment to innovation, Terry Benton is a valuable asset to SouthWest Water Company. His strategic vision and collaborative leadership style position him as a respected leader in the water utilities industry, poised to drive continued growth and sustainability for the organization.