Troubleshooting has long been a cornerstone of industrial operations, particularly in the water and wastewater sectors. The ability to methodically diagnose problems, identify root causes, and implement solutions is essential for keeping facilities running smoothly, avoiding costly downtime, and staying in compliance. But today, this crucial skill is becoming a lost art.
As the number of people entering the skilled trades declines and experienced operators retire, the deep, hands-on knowledge required for effective troubleshooting is disappearing. The best troubleshooters developed their skills over years of direct experience. They didn’t just respond to problems; they understood the systems intimately, which allowed them to anticipate and prevent issues before they occurred.
The current workforce is different. Fewer young people are pursuing technical careers, and many who do are more comfortable relying on automated systems and diagnostics. While those tools are useful, they are not a substitute for human judgment. Algorithms can’t always detect nuanced mechanical wear, chemical imbalances, or the subtle interplay between process variables. Digital alerts can indicate a symptom, but it takes an experienced operator to understand the full context and determine the real problem. Without that expertise, facilities are seeing longer downtimes and higher maintenance costs.
U.S. Water is actively working to reverse this trend.
We recognize that strong troubleshooting skills are critical to operational success. That’s why we invest in developing and retaining in-house expertise. Our operators are trained not just to monitor systems but to think critically and respond effectively when things go wrong.
Through hands-on field training, mentorship from technical experts, and partnerships with institutions, we’re helping the next generation gain the necessary skills and experience. Our teams are supported by technical directors and subject matter experts who work directly with field staff, transferring hard-earned knowledge and sharpening diagnostic skills. Our operators don’t rely solely on automation; they learn to understand the processes behind the numbers, to ask the right questions, and to solve problems at the root level.
We also use smart maintenance systems and operational dashboards, like U.S. Water’s Process Control & Monitoring (PC&MTM) system, that help identify process deviations early. However, rather than replacing human troubleshooting, these tools support it by providing timely, actionable information. The real value comes when trained professionals interpret the data and take decisive action.
Troubleshooting isn’t just about fixing equipment. It’s about ensuring safe water, effective wastewater treatment, protecting the environment, and maintaining the trust of the clients and communities we serve. At U.S. Water, we’re not letting this art die—we’re building a workforce that can carry it forward. Contact us today to learn how our team can support your facility’s operations and long-term success.
