Insights for what's next

Explore practical perspectives that turn complex challenges and emerging trends into real-world outcomes.

466 items
Water treatment facility with multiple tanks and filtration systems
Big Questions

How can municipalities address emerging contaminant concerns in biosolids?

With over three decades in environmental services and a singular focus on biosolids management, Drew has become a trusted leader in one of the most challenging areas of the wastewater industry. As a biosolids specialist for Jacobs’ wastewater operations portfolio, he combines technical know-how, strategic insight and practical solutions to guide an industry that continues to evolve and struggles with increasing disposal costs and emerging contaminant concerns. A career built on residuals and results Drew’s decades-long journey in the biosolids field includes leadership roles at some of the nation’s largest residual management firms specializing in biosolids and industrial sludge. This history and knowledge connect him to a unique group of people who have a specialized skill set for solving biosolids challenges. With this diverse experience — from dewatering and disposal to beneficial reuse and Class A marketing — Drew has established himself in every facet of the biosolids lifecycle. His philosophy is straightforward: apply best practices while driving efficiency. Whether it’s optimizing field surveys for pre-operational planning or developing creative reuse strategies for dredge materials, Drew’s approach is always rooted in measurable, real-world results. Business acumen meets environmental expertise With a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Delaware, Drew translates complex processes into strategic opportunities. His background enables him to clearly communicate the value of biosolids programs to various stakeholders — from municipal clients to consulting engineers. Combining practical field knowledge with strong analytical skills, he has earned a reputation as a trusted voice in residuals management operations

Drew Mearns
Electric substation at dusk
Big Questions

How can energy providers navigate complex regulations to strengthen the power grid?

Dan Laubenthal’s passion for meteorology, weather systems and environmental science led him to a career in permitting and siting. Today he uses his passion to benefit energy clients as he works across a wide variety of transmission, renewable energy and utility operations projects designed to bolster the future of the nation’s power grid. As Jacobs’ Transmission and Distribution Market Lead, Dan helps clients understand and plan for the complexities of siting facilities, permitting, and navigating regulatory and environmental compliance. Dan joined Jacobs after working for one of the country’s largest investor-owned utilities, which also owns the largest transmission grid in North America. His utility experience brings a deep understanding of the challenges our clients face — from regulatory uncertainty and environmental impacts to stakeholder engagement and cost management. He’s built a broad network across the transmission and distribution industry, and his background in siting and permitting helps him anticipate challenges early, align teams and demonstrate how Jacobs delivers resilient energy infrastructure. Dan’s collaborative, multidisciplinary approach — which integrates environmental, engineering and stakeholder groups — is crucial for the complex and critical nature of the projects he supports. Building energy infrastructure, like transmission lines, substations and distribution networks, can span years from concept to completion so integrating teams at the forefront helps reduce risk and increase efficiency. Dan knows that transmission and distribution are central to the future of energy and works to provide support for energy companies building vital infrastructure to help move and balance energy supply. His work ultimately

Dan Laubenthal
cyber security
Big Questions

How can organizations secure operational technology without disrupting operations?

Operational Technology (OT) cybersecurity sits at the intersection of complex systems, evolving threats and zero tolerance for downtime. Many organizations, even those with mature IT security programs, struggle to understand what’s really happening inside their OT environments. That lack of visibility makes it difficult to manage risk, meet regulatory expectations and confidently modernize critical infrastructure. Jacobs’ Senior Director for OT Cybersecurity Solutions Steve Hiser works with clients to bring clarity to that uncertainty. His consultative approach starts with listening — understanding how facilities operate, what risks are acceptable and where production, safety and cybersecurity priorities intersect. From there, he helps clients build practical, phased strategies that strengthen security without putting operations at risk. A key challenge Steve sees across industries is visibility. Without a clear picture of assets, networks and interdependencies across IT and OT, organizations are effectively flying blind. Steve helps clients establish that foundational insight so they can make informed decisions, protect critical systems and plan for the future with confidence. What motivates Steve most is helping organizations navigate what he calls the ‘perfect storm’ of OT cybersecurity: operational continuity, regulatory pressure, occupational safety and infrastructure modernization. By bringing together cross-functional experts and trusted partners, he helps clients turn complexity into actionable progress — at any stage of cybersecurity maturity. Steve’s work is rooted in long-term relationships, not transactions. He believes the most effective solutions come from collaboration, curiosity and trust — both with clients and across our teams at Jacobs.

Steve Hiser
Aerial View of Two Environmental engineers work at wastewater treatment plants
Big Questions

How can utilities build maintenance teams that deliver long-term value?

John Loucks-Powell brings an experienced hand to Operations Management and Facilities Services (OMFS) with a focus on the challenges our clients face every day: aging infrastructure, rising operational demands and the pressure to keep essential water and wastewater systems running without interruption. With 45 years in utility operations and maintenance, John brings the knowledge to help clients strengthen the reliability and performance of their critical water and wastewater infrastructure — the backbone of the communities they serve. A foundation in skilled trades John’s career began in the skilled trades, spending 20 years developing expertise in industrial maintenance, machinery installation and precision mechanical work. His experience shaped his commitment to safety, craftsmanship and operational integrity, which continues to influence how he strengthens essential infrastructure. Leading one of the nation’s most complex wastewater systems Before joining Jacobs, John spent more than a decade at one of California’s largest municipal utility agencies, managing a highly complex combined sewer system and leading a team of 135 across technical and operational disciplines. He oversaw the health and safety program, the maintenance budget and played a key role in major capital work — including a sewer system improvement program and biosolids digester facilities project — helping the team work more safely and manage resources more effectively. He also drove the early adoption of mobile and reliability-centered maintenance technologies to help operators identify issues earlier, respond faster and make more informed decisions about where to invest time and resources. Delivering excellence at Jacobs John joined Jacobs in

John Loucks-Powell
water treatment facility
Big Questions

How is water reuse shaping the future of resilient communities?

As water scarcity intensifies and climate impacts place increasing pressure on traditional supplies, communities around the world are rethinking how water is sourced, treated and reused. In response, more utilities are embracing water reuse practices and the principle that all water has value. Advances in treatment technologies now allow wastewater to be cost-effectively reclaimed and repurposed as a high-quality, resilient water supply — increasingly for drinking water purposes. These solutions help communities strengthen water security while adapting to regulatory, environmental and infrastructure constraints. Navigating direct potable reuse regulations As more states adopt or advance direct potable reuse (DPR) regulations, Global Water Reuse Principal and Vice President Melanie Holmer works closely with utilities to translate regulatory frameworks into practical, implementable solutions. With California’s DPR regulations now in effect, she supports clients in planning treatment technologies, monitoring strategies, operational requirements and governance approaches that align with regulatory expectations while strengthening long-term water resilience. Her work helps communities move from uncertainty to action, enabling them to confidently integrate potable reuse into their water supply portfolios. Water reuse in action Melanie is supporting high-profile potable reuse initiatives including the Donald C. Tillman Advanced Water Purification Facility in Los Angeles. The project will produce up to 45 million gallons per day of purified water to recharge local groundwater basins, supplying water for up to 500,000 residents. Through her involvement, Melanie helps align advanced treatment, regulatory requirements and stakeholder engagement — supporting a collaborative model that brings together multiple agencies to increase regional water resiliency. A full-circle return to Jacobs Melanie’s leadership in water reuse reflects a full-circle

Melanie Holmer
abstract data
Big Questions

How can data centers keep pace with AI?

The data center industry is evolving at unprecedented speed. As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes computing demand, facilities built for traditional enterprise computing are now being pushed to support graphics processing units (GPUs) — high-performance chips that power artificial intelligence models. These chips require significantly more power and generate more heat, placing new demands on cooling and electrical systems. For data center owners and operators, the challenge is more than just growth — it’s staying operational and profitable while adapting to constant change. Jaclyn Warren is helping clients do exactly that. As Jacobs’ Enterprise AI Program Manager, Jaclyn leads the development and deployment of advanced digital twin capabilities that support generative design, pre-commissioning simulations and operational optimization. Her work bridges AI strategy with real-world infrastructure performance, ensuring facilities are ready not just for today’s chips, but for what comes next. One of the most pressing issues facing the industry is retrofitting. GPU manufacturers are accelerating release cycles, shortening the lifespan of chips and racks faster than ever before. Retrofitting facilities to accommodate these advancements can disrupt operations and every hour offline affects profitability. Through real-time digital twin simulations, Jacobs enables clients to model power loads, cooling interactions, controls systems and rack replacements before physical changes are made. Using detailed as-built 3D models, owners can test scenarios, understand system-wide impacts and determine the most efficient retrofit strategy — minimizing downtime and maximizing performance. The result is faster decision-making with greater confidence. By shortening the gap between action and insight, digital tools give

Jaclyn Warren
Aerial view of the chemical plant's wastewater treatment facility
Big Questions

How can integrating engineering into operations improve water and wastewater treatment?

In a constantly evolving world, municipalities and water facilities are under increasing pressure to improve performance, extend asset life and deliver reliable service to residents and customers. Engineering Manager Liie Hill is helping them do just that. Her role was designed specifically to strengthen the connection between daily operations and the engineering expertise that keeps complex water treatment systems performing at their best. Bridging operations and engineering for better performance Liie describes her work as being both “the glue and the grease” — keeping things connected while helping processes move smoothly. She supports operations and maintenance (O&M) projects across the U.S., working with operators and clients to be sure they have access to the technical resources they need, whether it be troubleshooting process inefficiencies, planning a capital upgrade or responding to unexpected conditions. Integrating engineering expertise into daily operations provides a major advantage: operators can quickly pinpoint root causes and address issues proactively. Liie plays a central role in this process by scoping engineering needs, overseeing technical reviews and being sure solutions are implemented effectively. This approach gives clients confidence that their facilities are operating safely and meeting regulatory requirements. Delivering cost-effective, reliable solutions This model isn’t just effective; it’s cost-conscious. Liie leads innovation workshops with clients to improve efficiency and uncover long-term savings through data-driven process improvements. In Wilmington, Delaware, she tailored a workshop to the city’s challenges: aging infrastructure and new regulations. As a result, Jacobs developed a programmatic approach to the city’s capital improvement plan, improving process

Liie Hill
A_Blueprint_for_Social_Value:_How_Organizations_Can_Shape_a_Better_Future
Podcast

A blueprint for social value: How businesses can shape a better future

Driving more social value for people, communities and investors is not a corporate tick box exercise; it’s a vital element for organizations that must increasingly demonstrate their purpose beyond profit, generating greater value for stakeholders and shareholders. Creating meaningful social value requires integrating a tailored social value strategy and an iterative mindset. To do this, you need the right mix of leadership, data-driven solutions and cross-sector expertise. When organizations make informed, responsible choices, they can drive growth, improve efficiency and enhance their reputation, all while creating long-term value for society and the environment. The two guests on this episode are celebrated for getting this mix right globally: Dr Mary-Kathryn Adams (known as MK), Chief Executive Officer of Simetrica-Jacobs, and Toyin Ogunfolaju, Director Social Value Americas at Jacobs.

wastewater treatment plant
Big Questions

How do wastewater leaders deliver reliable services as infrastructure ages?

Wastewater treatment is more than a technical discipline — it’s a public service essential to community health, environmental protection and long-term resilience. Without it, communities risk public health emergencies like the spread of disease, contaminated drinking water and sewage backup into homes. Jacobs’ Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Consultant Aleksey Reznik works to be sure those risks don’t become a reality. With more than 40 years of experience in wastewater treatment and environmental engineering, Aleksey’s career is defined by technical excellence and a deep commitment to the communities he serves. Today, he supports the O&M of the 134-million-gallon-per-day (MGD) wastewater treatment plant in Wilmington, Delaware — one of the region’s most critical wastewater facilities supporting both the City of Wilmington and a large portion of New Castle County — equipping operators with the training, tools and support they need to deliver reliable service to the community. A global journey shaped by engineering and purpose Aleksey’s path into the water sector began in Kiev, Ukraine, where he launched his career as an environmental engineer at the city’s municipal wastewater treatment plant. He learned the fundamentals of sludge digestion, pumping systems and facility operations. His next chapter designing water purification and wastewater treatment systems, selecting equipment and overseeing installation and startup activities deepened his understanding of how treatment facilities are built, optimized and sustained. Leading Wilmington’s O&M program When Aleksey immigrated to the United States, he became a licensed plant operator at the Wilmington wastewater treatment facility. Working in various roles, he immersed

Aleksey Reznik
Aerial top view of circular sedimentation tanks in modern water treatment plant facility
Big Questions

How do you navigate the engineering, regulatory and operational demands of modern water infrastructure?

With 28 years of experience in wastewater treatment, conveyance design, water supply, biosolids and effluent reuse, Quitterie leads complex infrastructure programs that integrate environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational performance. Based in Portland, Oregon, she brings a powerful combination of technical expertise and strategic leadership to every engagement — from planning biosolids reuse programs to managing half-billion-dollar treatment expansions. Her work consistently aligns infrastructure investment with regulatory certainty and system reliability. Collaboration defines her approach. She builds and leads high-performing multidisciplinary teams, guiding subconsultants, stakeholder engagement efforts and permitting negotiations across federal, state and local agencies. Her ability to navigate complexity while maintaining alignment keeps large programs moving forward through open communication and thoughtful organization. Quitterie’s experience spans municipal, industrial and agricultural systems across the western United States and South America. From feasibility studies and engineering design to construction management, Quitterie applies innovative thinking to solve complex client challenges and strengthen long-term outcomes. In Oregon, she played a central role in managing the City of Portland’s $500 million Secondary Treatment Expansion Program from planning through design and construction. The program met critical regulatory deadlines while positioning the city for sustained system performance. Across her portfolio, she has advanced capital improvements that enhance reliability, strengthen operations and maintenance strategies, and support biosolids land application, treated effluent discharge and natural treatment systems. Having lived and worked in France, Thailand, South America and the United States, Quitterie brings a global perspective to local infrastructure challenges. She understands how water systems operate within

Quitterie Cotten
aerial town center
Big Questions

How do you regenerate a town center?

"It starts with one simple question: What makes this place this place? Before I talk about new infrastructure or shiny assets, I want to understand the town’s identity: its history, people and pride. When places are struggling, it’s easy to forget they’ve been vibrant before. But there’s always something worth celebrating — local artists, a craft tradition, a regional industry, a story people can rally around. When those elements are embraced, the project gains warmth, meaning and character. Then I look at how we bring life back. Not just for a quick visit, but so people want to stay longer. You need activity on the street at different times of day: a daytime economy and a nighttime economy." "Providing upskilling opportunities for the community is a critical part of that, especially in towns that have gone through industrial change. In Hartlepool, England, we backed an engineering academy, provided training for carers and explored ideas like building a production village to offer vital pre- and post-production support for film and television media. It means students and local people can build careers without leaving town. Safety matters, too. Empty properties and silent streets invite anti-social behavior. Well-lit, well-maintained public spaces provide a space for activities, plus there are opportunities for temporary uses like popup events, clubs or festivals. You still need the basics: transport connections, active travel links and a digital backbone that encourages influence businesses to invest. Even something as simple as better wayfinding, like QR codes that help people discover

Priscila Mauro

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