The Town of Clayton is thrilled to announce that our Water Resources Department was recognized at the 2024 North Carolina Rural Water Association (NCRWA) Annual Conference and Exhibition, which took place May 14-16 at the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem, NC.

This special honor highlights the department’s work as a Training Partner in the NCRWA Registered Apprenticeship Program. Ilona Williams, our Laboratory Supervisor, was celebrated for her completion of the apprenticeship program, and Salvador "Jr." Valdiviezo, Senior Wastewater Treatment Operator, was honored for his role as her mentor.

The Town credits these recognitions to the late Byron Poelman, who served the Town in many capacities for 26 years. Poelman's vision and dedication paved the way for the Town’s NCRWA Registered Apprenticeship Program. His legacy lives on through the opportunities he created for aspiring professionals in water management.

Join us in congratulating our Water Resources Department for their outstanding achievements.

Thank you, NCRWA for this esteemed recognition.