Meet our Industry Person of the Week, Haley Garland, a Senior Engineering Inspector at Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District.
Q: How did you get started working in your field?
Haley: I began my career in the water industry as an entry-level Engineering Services Assistant, handling application intake, plan check documents, and inspection submittals. This role gave me exposure to every step of the development process, but I was especially drawn to inspection. I learned from experienced inspectors, studied standards and drawings, and became familiar with construction processes and procedures. When the opportunity arose to apply for an inspector position, my manager encouraged me, and it turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made.
As a Senior Engineering Inspector I’ve gained hands-on experience with water and sewer systems, collaborated closely with engineers and contractors, and developed a passion for infrastructure, problem-solving, and public service. I love being part of projects that build communities from the underground utilities to the top of reservoirs. This career has broadened my understanding of the industry and continues to challenge and inspire me every day.
Q: What do you love the most about your job? What are you most proud of?
Haley: What I love most about my job is the people I work with, both within the district and in the field, and the teamwork it takes to get projects done. Every day brings something new, from inspecting a sewer lift station to overseeing water and sewer mainline installations for housing tracts, each with unique technical requirements. I enjoy the learning opportunities that come with each project and the satisfaction of ensuring our infrastructure is built to the highest standards.
I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown in this role, from going back to college to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering, to passing the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) exam and working toward my Project Manager Professional (PMP) certification. I’ve also had the unique opportunity to represent our district in the AWWA Hydrant Hysteria competition, where alongside my teammates Lulu Seward and Coach Ray McCullough, we won back-to-back national championships. I’m proud to represent women in a traditionally male-dominated field, mentoring others, solving complex problems in the field, and showing that we can lead and excel with confidence and precision.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering this line of work or new to the field?
Haley: I encourage anyone considering this field to take the leap! it’s a stable, reliable industry with a wide range of career paths. Water districts have opportunities in customer service, finance, administration, construction, sewer, water, and more, so there’s truly a place for everyone. The benefits and long-term security are outstanding, and I feel fortunate to have found a career that will allow me to retire comfortably while providing for my family.
Be curious, ask questions, and never stop learning. This is an industry where showing initiative, staying hands-on, and building strong relationships can take you far. Don’t be intimidated by the technical side, those skills will come with time and experience. Listen to your peers and field staff, embrace every learning opportunity, and always keep public safety and quality at the forefront of your work.
Q: Can you talk about a project you recently worked on?
Haley: One of the most memorable projects I worked on was my first special facility inspection, a sewer lift station. I had the opportunity to see every stage of construction, from the force main installation and wet well to the overflow structure. I even walked on scaffolding for the first time to inspect the block wall concrete pour and roofing vents and learned the intricacies of electrical conduits and setting rebar. It was an incredible learning experience, especially because the work was performed by one of the most professional contractors I’ve worked with, SCW.
I’ve also been involved in larger-scale utility projects, including underground and above-ground improvements for major commercial developments. These projects, which range from recycled water mains to critical sewer infrastructure, have reinforced just how much planning, coordination, and teamwork it takes to turn drawings into reliable, functioning systems. Experiences like these remind me why this work matters, because every detail contributes to building the infrastructure our communities depend on.
Q: Anything else you would like to add?
Haley: On top of my day-to-day work at EVMWD, I compete in Hydrant Hysteria, a national fire hydrant assembly competition that sharpens technical skills, strengthens teamwork, and fosters industry pride. I’m fortunate to work for a district that encourages staff to learn, grow, and represent our organization with pride, both in the field and on a national stage. I also promote water industry careers through presentations and community outreach. Representation matters, and I’m passionate about encouraging more women and emerging professionals to explore the rewarding opportunities this field has to offer.
Connect with Haley on Instagram!
THANK YOU, HALEY! WE LOOK FORWARD TO KEEPING UP WITH YOU THROUGH THE #PUMPTALK COMMUNITY!
