Delivering a World Class Lead Replacement Programme: Will Pickering, CEO at Pittsburgh Water

In this episode of the Exec Exchange podcast, host Piers Clark interviews Will Pickering, the Chief Executive of Pittsburgh Water. They discuss Will's career journey, the lead crisis in Flint, Michigan, and the challenges Pittsburgh faced with elevated lead levels in their water supply. Will highlights the actions taken, including switching to effective corrosion control treatments, implementing a comprehensive lead service line replacement program, and the importance of procuring grants from the US Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The conversation emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the proactive measures Pittsburgh Water adopted to ensure water safety and rebuild public trust. Will also reflects on the broader industry implications and the rewarding nature of his work in the water sector.

00:00 Introduction to the Exec Exchange
00:24 Will Pickering's Background and Career Path
01:02 Challenges at Pittsburgh Water
02:10 Lead Crisis and Response
04:35 Implementation of Lead Replacement Program
06:09 Community Engagement and Overcoming Obstacles
07:09 Current Status and Future Goals
10:38 Reflections and Advice
11:51 Conclusion