In this episode, I talk with L’Oreal Stepney, P.E., a distinguished board member of the Texas Water Development Board, about unique opportunities for engineers in the public sector, particularly in the water industry. We also talk about how an engineering background can be beneficial to board membership, and explore her journey transitioning to the Office of Water within the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality, where she spearheaded the establishment of the office from the ground up.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask L’Oreal:
- How did you transition from working on air permitting to joining the Office of Water at the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality?
- How do you think your engineering background has influenced your effectiveness as a board member?
- What has driven your commitment to dedicate over 30 years to public service?
- When you began your career, did you ever envision yourself serving in public service for more than 30 years?
- What unique opportunities do you see for engineers within the public sector?
- What attracted you to the water industry and its significance for the future, considering its importance and the various industries available?
- What unique benefits does a career in public service, particularly within the government, offer young engineers in the water sector?
- How can mentorship significantly influence young engineers’ interest in pursuing careers in public service or government?
- What advice do you have for engineers considering a transition into public service, to aid them in making a well-informed decision?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Unique Opportunities for Engineers in the Water Industry:
- L’Oreal shifted from air permitting to overseeing water regulation at the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality. With her engineering background, she quickly learned and excelled, eventually founding the Office of Water for Texas.
- L’Oreal’s effectiveness as a board member at the Texas Water Development Board is shaped by her engineering background. Her training enables her to solve problems, understand complex issues, and adapt swiftly to change. She appreciates how her engineering education equips her to make a meaningful contribution in her role on the board.
- Her dedication to public service for over 30 years is driven by her belief in its importance and impact on Texans. She witnesses professionals working hard to fund water projects and manage crises like droughts. Finding the work fulfilling, she emphasizes securing a water future for Texas communities, valuing her role as a public servant.
- L’Oreal had planned a brief stint in public service for training, but it unexpectedly extended to 32 years. She’s grateful for the opportunities to create change and step out of her comfort zone, making a significant impact. Reflecting on her decision to stay, she acknowledges its profound effects on herself, her family, and the community she serves.
- In the public sector, engineers ensure safe water resources for communities by reviewing plans, enforcing regulations, and overseeing financing. At places like the Texas Water Development Board, they make crucial funding decisions. With a shortage of engineers, particularly in water, there’s an opportunity to emphasize these roles as Texas grows, showing the need to sustain water resources.
- L’Oreal found herself in the water industry by chance but ended up loving it. She suggests new engineers take on unfamiliar opportunities for potential fulfillment. Water is vital across industries, from drinking to agriculture, making its management crucial. L’Oreal highlights the critical role of innovation and underscores the importance of engineers in ensuring a sustainable future for water resources.
- In government, young water engineers enjoy work-life balance, flexible work arrangements, and support for career development. They can become experts in their field and drive innovation to address water challenges from the start. Public service offers a supportive environment for them to make meaningful contributions to tackling societal issues in water management.
- Mentoring is vital for career growth. The Texas Water Development Board recently launched a mentoring program, highlighting the benefits of mutual learning. Young professionals are encouraged to seek trusted mentors for invaluable career development.
- Leaping into the public sector, particularly as a water engineer, offers significant rewards. With growing populations, ensuring safe water is essential for families, businesses, and agriculture. Innovations in this field provide ample growth opportunities. Embracing public service allows for giving back and personal fulfillment.
More Details in This Episode…
About the Guest: L’Oreal Stepney, P.E.
Governor Greg Abbott appointed L’Oreal Stepney, P.E., as a Board member of the Texas Water Development Board with a term set to expire February 1, 2029.
Ms. Stepney was previously the Deputy Executive Director of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), serving as the Chief Operating Officer. During her 30-year career with TCEQ, Ms. Stepney worked to develop the Title V Air Operating Permitting Program from inception, was selected as the first Deputy Director to create the Office of Water focused on water availability, supply, planning, and permitting programs in Texas, as well as lead efforts to obtain permitting delegation from the United States Environmental Protection Agency for certain oil and gas discharges. Ms. Stepney also managed the agency’s response to record breaking drought conditions to alleviate water shortages with communities and previously served as one of the Texas negotiators with Mexico and the International Boundary and Water Commission to ensure water delivery compliance under the Rio Grande 1944 Treaty. With these responsibilities, she had many opportunities to work closely with the Texas Water Development Board on several water programs which has been an asset in her role as board member.
Ms. Stepney is a board member for the Mickey Leland Environmental Internship Program, and a graduate of both the University of Texas Governor’s Center Executive Management Program and the University of Texas Center for Public Policy Dispute Resolution Fellows Program.
Ms. Stepney has received several distinguished recognitions including 2022 Rainmaker of the Year by the Texas Water Foundation, 2022 President’s Award by Texas Water Conservation Association, the 2020 Individual Diversity and Inclusion Award by the American Water Works Association, and 2019 Outstanding Public Official Award by the Water Environment Association of Texas.
Ms. Stepney received a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering and a Master of Science in civil engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a Registered Professional Engineer.
About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani is the owner of Thrive Edge Publishing and owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering as well as a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is currently a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
As an engineer with more than 19 years of experience, Tiffani has a passion for inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift – 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book at www.stemistheway.com.
Sources/References:
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
University of Texas at Austin
Texas Water Development Board
Connect with L’Oreal Stepney, P.E., on LinkedIn
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