LCWSC Celebrates Workforce Excellence at Annual Employee Recognition Breakfast
March 30, 2026
The Laurens County Water and Sewer Commission (LCWSC) recently brought together staff and commissioners for its annual Employee Recognition Breakfast, celebrating the dedication, growth, and achievements of its workforce.
The event highlighted a combination of long-term experience, new talent, and professional accomplishments that continue to support safe and reliable water service across Laurens County.
As of March 2026, employees were recognized for milestone years of service, with several team members reaching significant career benchmarks. Staff celebrating between five and 30 years of service represent decades of institutional knowledge and commitment to the community.
Among those honored were employees reaching 5-, 10-, 15-, 25-, and 30-year milestones, reflecting LCWSC’s ability to retain skilled professionals and maintain continuity in operations.
Years of Service Milestones
5 Years of Service
- Thomas Moore (Hired March 22, 2021)
- Courtney Marler (Hired August 10, 2020)
- Marshall Wilbanks (Hired August 10, 2020)
10 Years of Service
- Demetria Spearman (Hired May 25, 2015)
- Jimmy Addy (Hired May 4, 2015)
15 Years of Service
- Chris Lyda (Hired March 7, 2011)
25 Years of Service
- Melissa Thomason (Hired March 1, 2000)
30 Years of Service
- Gene Steele (Hired February 12, 1996)
- Barry Templeton (Hired February 5, 1996)
In addition to recognizing tenure, LCWSC also highlighted continued workforce growth. Over the past year, the organization has welcomed new employees across key roles including water treatment operators, field service, water distribution, and wastewater collection system technicians, Lake Rabon personnel, and customer service staff. Internship and pre-apprenticeship opportunities with local schools were also recognized as part of ongoing workforce development efforts.
New Hires & Team Additions (2025)
- Richard Goodwin – Lake Rabon Maintenance Technician
- Stephan Botchie – Field Service Technician
- Parker Jackson – Collection System Technician
- Cade Thompson – Water Crew Technician
- Ray Snead – Collection System Crew Leader
- Inman Jackson – Water Crew Technician
- Max Hughes – Water Production Manager
- Bradley Templeton – Collection System Technician
- Devin Sullivan – Water Treatment Operator Trainee
- Clay Cleveland – Water Treatment Operator Trainee
- Ayden Rudder – Intern – Water Treatment Presbyterian College
- Jones McCoy – Pre-Apprentice Clinton High School
- Michael Cooper – Field Service Technician
- Lauren Cook – Customer Service Representative
- Brian Jenkins – Water Treatment Operator
Employees were further recognized for advancing their technical expertise, earning multiple state certifications in water distribution, wastewater collection, and treatment operations throughout 2025 and early 2026.
Several team members also received statewide honors for excellence in their field, including awards for Wastewater Collection Operator of the Year, Water Distribution Operator of the Year, and Maintenance Operator of the Year.
“Our employees are the backbone of everything we do,” said Executive Director Jeff Field. “From those who have dedicated decades of service to those just starting their careers, each member of our team plays a critical role in delivering safe, reliable water to our community. We are proud of their commitment, their professionalism, and their continued pursuit of excellence.”
The annual recognition event reflects LCWSC’s ongoing commitment to building a workforce that embodies its core values: safe, reliable, proactive, sustainable, and strong community partners.
