Julie Spencer recently was named “Wastewater system operations specialist of the year” by the Montana Rural Water Systems.

Spencer, who has worked as district manager for Bigfork Water and Sewer District for nine and one-half years, received the award on Thursday, Feb. 21 at the Montana Rural Water Conference in Great Falls.

The award goes to an individual who is described as one who has an incredible work ethic, drive and moral compass to make progress.

Involved with a new technology upgrade to the wastewater treatment system, Spencer used her previous financial experience as a bookkeeper to deal with funding agencies. She also made use of accomplished math, chemistry and project management skills to make sure the construction and final operation adhered to the stringent discharge permit levels required for the system.

According to the MRWS, Spencer has been further described as unwilling to bend the rules or compromise standards, even when defending those boundaries proves to be challenging. She continues to do this with a smile everyday, the award stated.