This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered &amp; Edited By: Simplified Impact

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About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

A UC Irvine graduate and beginning his career in safety and emergency supplies. Isaac was trained by David Jackson on all things related to PPS. With the help of his predecessor, he has updated PPS in regard to technology and processes. He believes that PPS has just started to make an impact.

PPS has usually been a West Coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

We value preparation, trust, and integrity with our clients. We provide systems and solutions, not price-only products. We encourage our clients to prepare in advance for the worst, be it an earthquake, floods, fires, or just an aging infrastructure.

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

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By admin

April 17, 2024

27Mar

Behind the Scenes: Strengthening Costa Mesa Against Utility Failures

In this episode of the Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Isaac shares a case study from the Costa Mesa Sanitation District, showcasing their initiative in emergency preparedness for utility failures. He dives into the district’s forward-thinking approach and the strategic planning undertaken to mitigate potential disasters associated with the failure of a major lift station.

Isaac walks us through the profile of the Costa Mesa Sanitation District, highlighting its dense population and commercial activities, which make it an eminent part of Orange County, California. He touches on the city’s affluent status and the district’s commendable mindset towards emergency preparedness—a trait not necessarily found in all communities.

Also in this episode:

The district has invested in 7,920 ft of twelve-inch Auraflex hose and corresponding trailers with engines to bypass any potential failure in their wastewater system.
Training and practical hands-on sessions were significant in ensuring the district crew’s proficiency in deploying and managing the emergency equipment.
External vendors played a crucial role in solving logistical challenges, especially for utilities without heavy-duty equipment.

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Connect With The Show:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

By admin

March 27, 2024

13Mar

The Changing Landscape of Emergency Management: Water Utilities in the Face of Climate Change

In this episode of the Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Isaac and returning guest expert Jim unpack the myriad challenges and emerging issues faced by water utilities in emergency management. The conversation dives deep into the evolving landscape of utility crisis response, from cybersecurity threats to compliance updates. Discover the latest strategies and resources that utilities can harness to fortify their emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

Also in this episode:

Water utilities are facing an evolving set of challenges, including cybersecurity risks and the need to update risk and resiliency assessments under the AWIA.
Cyber threats are a growing concern for utilities, with resources such as CISA’s free scanning program highlighted as valuable tools for vulnerability assessment.
The mutual aid network for utilities (CalWarn) continues to grow, helping small and large utilities alike to prepare for and respond to emergencies.
There are legislative developments such as the Senate Bill 552 that affect utilities by mandating membership in mutual aid networks, emphasizing the importance of staying informed on compliance.

About Jim Wollbrinck:

Jim Wollbrink is an Emergency Management Professional at Metisis LLC. He is recognized as an expert in the field of emergency response and disaster response management for utility companies. With an extensive background in water utility emergency management and a focus on cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and mutual aid.

Connect with Jim: Jim.Wollbrinck@METISISLLC.com

Connect with METISIS LLC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/metisis-llc/

Connect with Jim Wollbrinck on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-jim-wollbrinck-0332016/

Join the Emergency Management Professional LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/98552

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Connect With The Show:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

By admin

March 13, 2024

20Dec

Unveiling the Latest Cybersecurity Regulations for Water Utilities

In this episode of the Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Isaac reflects on the year 2023 and discusses the state of conferences and cybersecurity in the utilities industry.

He highlights the positive growth in his business and the overall improvement in the industry compared to the past few years. Isaac emphasizes the increasing importance of cybersecurity in water utilities and mentions the abandonment of a cybersecurity rule by the EPA due to implementation challenges. He recommends Dr. Kevin Morley as an expert in the field and discusses the prevalence of cybersecurity threats.

Isaac also shares his experiences attending conferences such as Con Expo, ACE 23, and Root Control, and provides insights into the upcoming conferences in 2024, including ACE in Anaheim and Tristate in Las Vegas.

Also in this episode:

The year 2023 saw positive growth in the utilities industry, with increased confidence and investment in advertising and conferences.
Cybersecurity is becoming a major concern for water utilities, with the EPA abandoning a cybersecurity rule due to implementation challenges.
Dr. Kevin Morley is a valuable resource for water utilities seeking expertise in cybersecurity.

Learn more about Dr. Kevin Morley and the AWWA: https://www.awwa.org/

Subscribe To The Podcast

Connect With The Show:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

By admin

December 20, 2023

18Oct

REVIEW | Disaster Expo California 2023: A Work Still In Progress For The Future Of Disaster Management And Emergency Response

Isaac reviews the recent Disaster Expo California held at the Anaheim Convention Center and shares his first-hand insights into the event, its standout speakers, and unique highlights.

Isaac applauds speakers like Forrest Lanning from FEMA, who discussed earthquake resilience and the Ring of Fire, along with experts focusing on California disasters and local emergency management efforts. While he appreciates the Expo’s focus on disaster management, Isaac also highlights some challenges, such as an array of unrelated vendors and distracting breakout sessions within the exhibit hall. Ultimately, he recognizes the Expo’s potential and looks forward to future improvements. If you’re in the field of disaster management or emergency response, this episode offers valuable insights to help you decide if this event is for you.

Also in this episode:

Some notable speakers mentioned include Forrest Lanning from FEMA, who discussed earthquake-resilient building codes and the Ring of Fire, and Laurie Mazin Azura from the California Office of Emergency Services, who talked about California disasters and wildfires.
The lack of focus in breakout sessions, distractions in the exhibit hall, and a mix of vendors that weren’t always directly related to disaster management.
They could improve by attracting more prominent speakers, creating specialized tracks for breakout sessions, and offering convenience and attractions for attendees.

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Connect With The Show:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors.

A Work Still In Progress For The Future Of Disaster Management And Emergency Response

Utility Emergency Response with Isaac Alatorre

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By: Simplified Impact

By admin

October 18, 2023

22Sep

Navigating Current Disaster Response Plans And Unique Training In California’s Diverse Water Utilities | feat. Alix Stayton

Isaac is joined by Alix Stayton, the Emergency Management Coordinator for California’s Public Water Agencies Group (PWAG), to discuss the unique challenges faced by California’s diverse water utilities, emphasizing the need for tailored emergency plans and training.

Discover her journey from consultant to emergency manager, driven by experiences during Hurricane Katrina. She highlights the role of coordination and mutual aid among utilities, regardless of size, especially in tackling issues like wildfires and cybersecurity threats. Alix discusses the California Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (CalWARN) and its contribution to statewide assistance efforts. Gain valuable insights into the world of emergency management within the water sector and the ongoing quest to enhance preparedness and resilience.

Also in this episode:

Importance of Training and Preparation: Understanding how disaster response and relief mechanisms work, along with proper training, helps individuals and organizations align with established structures for more effective assistance.
Versatility in Emergency Management: The versatility of emergency management and its applicability in various contexts.
Critical Infrastructure Focus: Utilities play a critical role in disaster response, as they provide essential resources like water and power to first responders during emergencies.
Collaboration Among Water Districts: Sharing resources, information, and expertise among these districts to enhance their collective preparedness.
Mutual Aid and Support: Mutual aid and coordination with consultants to provide support functions during emergencies ensures that even smaller districts can receive assistance when needed.

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About Alix Stayton:

With more than 15 years in emergency management, Alix Stayton provides full-cycle emergency management services. As both a consultant and a staff member in the course of that time, she has worked on plans for public, private and nonprofit sector organizations and clients. Alix develops, delivers and evaluates training and exercises aligned with the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program. She has contributed to public health and emergency preparedness, response and recovery projects with cities, counties, higher education institutions, and various committees, working groups and coalitions.

A regular contributor to the field, Alix has spoken at the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters conference, the California Emergency Services Association conference, the Emergency Information Infrastructure Partnership Forum and others. She has led the LA City Business Operations Center during wildfire response and the Irvine Ranch Water District virtual EOC during the 2020 COVID-19 activation. She has been published in the American Journal of Public Health and Cambridge University Press. Ms. Stayton serves on the IAEM Children in Disasters Caucus and the Women in Homeland Security programs committee.

She is currently the Emergency Management Coordinator for Public Water Agencies Group (PWAG), providing support to 18 public (non-city) wholesale and retail water agencies in Los Angeles County. She focuses on preparedness, response and recovery as well as mutual aid and coordination with city, county and state-level response partners.

Connect With Alix Stayton:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

PPS has usually been a west coast company, but now Isaac believes that PPS can help utilities across the globe with PPS many applications. Not only with pipelines but with emergency response awareness as a whole. He enjoys sports, whiskey, and food.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors. When

Navigating Current Disaster Response Plans And Unique Training In California’s Diverse Water Utilities | feat. Alix Stayton

Utility Emergency Response with Isaac Alatorre

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By: Simplified Impact

By admin

September 22, 2023

18Aug

Grant-Seeking Strategies For Small Or Medium-Sized Water Utilities | feat. Emergency Management Consultant Gary Sturdivan

On today’s Utility Emergency Response Podcast episode, Isaac Alatorre chats with Gary Sturdivan, an esteemed emergency management consultant with extensive experience as a former emergency manager for water utilities, about the vital realm of grant-seeking funding for water utilities.

Isaac and Gary dissect the intricacies of grants and hazard mitigation plans, shedding light on the distinctions between InstaGrants and Regular Grants, the grant application process, and the compelling reasons water utilities should actively seek such opportunities. They unravel the mechanics of how grants function and emphasize the substantial benefits they offer challenged water utilities. The importance of detailed hazard mitigation plans takes center stage as they navigate their significance in securing grants. Issac and Gary discuss grants for small water utilities and consulting fees. Gary shared his experience in the business, and they talked about the importance of FEMA ICS training for emergency management. Issac and Gary highlighted the need for tabletop training and shared exercise anecdotes.

Also in this episode:

The process of applying for grants
The benefits of challenged water utilities
Calexico Problems
CalWarn past and future

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Connect With The Show:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors. When

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By: Simplified Impact

Grant-Seeking Strategies For Small Or Medium-Sized Water Utilities | feat. Emergency Management Consultant Gary Sturdivan

Utility Emergency Response with Isaac Alatorre

By admin

August 18, 2023

05Jul

ACE23 AWWA Conference: A Review and Key Takeaways Of The American Water Works Association Event

On today’s episode of Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Issac Alatorre recaps his experience at the recent ACE23 AWWA Conference for water and wastewater professionals in Toronto, ON, Canada.

Isaac had the privilege of participating in the ACE23 AWWA Conference, which he found to be exceedingly advantageous for individuals in the water and wastewater sector. Isaac characterizes it as one of the most distinguished worldwide water conferences he has ever attended based on his own experiences. Isaac highlights the conference’s significant perspectives, varied global viewpoints, and prospects for networking. He strongly endorses the ACE conference to other specialists and believes it is a valuable investment for obtaining knowledge and industry contacts.

Also in this episode:

It’s harder to buy beer in Toronto than in the USA
Why ACE23 is one of the top global water conferences
The issue regarding the shipment of the booth equipment
Isaac’s trip to Montreal to see the Formula 1 race

Subscribe To The Podcast

Connect With The Show:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors. When

ACE23 AWWA Conference: A Review and Key Takeaways Of The American Water Works Association Event

By admin

July 5, 2023

21Jun

The Different Types Of Lay Flat Hoses For Water And Wastewater Applications

On today’s Utility Emergency Response Podcast episode, Issac Alatorre explores the different lay flat hoses for water and wastewater.

Issac discusses three categories: rubber, PVC, and PU (polyurethane) hoses. Rubber hoses are not very popular because they are heavy. On the other hand, PVC hoses are lightweight and cost-effective, but they are only suitable for low-pressure applications. The best choice of hose is PU hoses because they are durable, resistant to chemicals, algae, and fungus, and they recover their full diameter. They have also been tested for longer lengths, which makes them ideal for water and wastewater bypassing.

Also in this episode:

The importance of safety and proactive planning
Ozone resistant vs ozone resistant hoses
The three types of PVC hoses: heavy-duty, medium-duty, and light-duty
The pros and cons of PVC vs polyvinyl chloride
PVC and what it is good for

Subscribe To The Podcast

Connect With The Show:

About Isaac:

Chairman & Emergency Pipeline Advisor for Water, Wastewater, and Flood Management.

About Portable Pipeline Systems:

At PPS we do not claim to have every solution for every disaster, we encourage clients to be open about their solutions and include all possible vendors. When in a disaster situation, a city, county, state, or government must consider all option

The Different Types Of Lay Flat Hoses For Water And Wastewater Applications

By admin

June 21, 2023

19Apr

Cutting-Edge Technologies and Sustainable Solutions | My Review of ConExpo 2023 As A Water & Wastewater Utility Professional

On today’s episode of Utility Emergency Response Podcast, Issac Alatorre recaps his experience at the recent ConExpo 2023.

Isaac had the opportunity to attend ConExpo, the largest trade show for the construction industry, and took advantage of the event to highlight its numerous benefits for professionals. Issac shares the value he found for those working in the water and wastewater utility sector. As an attendee, Isaac was able to gain valuable insights into the latest technologies and trends shaping the industry, connect with other like-minded professionals, and explore potential business opportunities. Overall, attending ConExpo proved to be a worthwhile investment of time and resources for Isaac, and he highly recommends it to others in his field.

Also in this episode:

The biggest problems facing the construction industry
The lack of younger people working in the construction industry
The lack of immiagranets to fill positions
Renting vs Buying Equipment
The Tesla Loop at the Las Vegas Convention Center

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