JPIA Five

Join ACWA JPIA Employee Benefits Manager, Adam Dedmon, as he explores the Carrum Health program benefit with Laures Stiles (Director of HR & Administration, San Louis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority) and Anjanette Shadley (Assistant General Manager, Western Canal Water District). The conversation explores the Carrum Heath member benefit from the perspective of a program administrator and user, offering unique insights into benefits for both water agencies and employees. More information about the Carrum Heath program can be found on ACWA JPIA's website under the "Benefits" tab.

In this episode, join ACWA JPIA Member Education Manager, Sarah Crawford, as she interviews three senior JPIA member water agency leaders, Stephen Lang, Betsy Miller, and Kevin Phillips, to learn about their senior leadership journeys and experience in the ACWA JPIA Leadership Essentials for the Water Industry Program.

In this episode, Member Education Manager Sarah Crawford discusses the 10th anniversary of the ACWA JPIA Leadership Essentials for the Water Industry Program, a transformative, year-long experience to develop strong, self-aware leaders in the water industry. She’s joined by Clint Camac, an experienced leadership and development trainer, to explore how the program’s small cohort model fosters deep personal and professional growth. Blending in-person retreats with engaging webinars, the program prioritizes a “people first” approach while staying firmly focused on results. The 2025-2026 cohort application period just opened. Learn more at:

https://www.acwajpia.com/training-2/#leadership-program

In this episode, we sit down with David Drake, a dedicated leader with over 11 years of service to ACWA JPIA, including his role as Vice President of the Executive Committee. David reflects on his impactful journey in water agency governance and risk management, starting from his time at Rincon del Diablo Water District. He shares pivotal moments in the development of the California Water Insurance Fund, the growth of JPIA into a leading risk pool, and the challenges faced in coverage disputes. With a focus on leadership, collaboration, and personal growth, David offers thoughtful insights as he prepares to step away from his official duties, while reaffirming his commitment to the water industry.

In the latest episode of the podcast, hosted by Adam Dedmon, Employee Benefits Manager at ACWA JPIA, guest Katie Wilcox, Client Success Manager from Progyny, discusses the transformative role of fertility benefits in employee health plans. Progyny offers specialized, comprehensive services for fertility and family planning. Offering innovative features like "smart cycles," Progyny provides members with a customizable package of services for individual fertility needs, as well as additional support programs, including reimbursement for adoption and doula expenses. Tune in to learn how these benefits make a difference for JPIA members!

For more on medical benefits available to members of ACWA JPIA's Employee Benefits program, visit: https://www.acwajpia.com/member-agency-benefits/#tab-dae1a9b8814e12d442e

For more about Progyny, visit: https://progyny.com/

In this episode of JPIA Five, ACWA JPIA's Sr. Risk Advisor Jesse Cota interviews Edward Castaneda, General Manager of Orchard Dale Water District, who shares valuable insights into the district’s operations and recent initiatives. He discusses their successful application for the ACWA JPIA Risk Control Grant and how it has helped improve efficiency and safety.

With a small but dedicated team of nine employees serving 25,000 residents, the district thrives on teamwork and communication. A key highlight of the conversation is the development of a customized service truck, designed to enhance safety and efficiency—saving the district substantial funds compared to traditional options.

Castaneda also offers practical advice for other districts, emphasizing the importance of staff involvement, open communication, and employee well-being. Tune in now for an engaging discussion on leadership, innovation, and cost-effective solutions in the water industry!

Join host Sarah Crawford, ACWA JPIA's Member Education Manager, as she sits down with Soren Nelson, ACWA's Senior State Relations Advocate to explore the vital partnership between ACWA and ACWA JPIA, a collaboration that has shaped California water policy advocacy since 1979. In this insightful discussion, Soren breaks down the structure of ACWA's dedicated advocacy team and their mission to tackle the most pressing state and federal legislative and regulatory challenges.

Join Kristen Bennett, ACWA JPIA Training Specialist, as she discusses how to engage your team in a solution-focused mindset while working within the realities of organizational constraints

In this episode, a rebroadcast of a recent Hot Java webinar, we dive into the essential practices and legal requirements surrounding Form 5020, the Employer’s Report of Occupational Injury and Illness. This educational session covers the critical importance of timely and accurate reporting, including the five-day submission requirement and the 24-hour deadline for providing the DWC1 form to injured employees. We also explore key legal considerations, such as the implications of incorrect reporting. The episode wraps up with a valuable Q&A session addressing best practices, late reporting challenges, and proper class code application. Tune in to ensure your organization stays compliant and handles claims effectively!

For more information on upcoming Hot Java & HR Topic webinars and other trainings, please visit:

https://www.acwajpia.com/training-2/#registerforclasses

In this episode, interviewer Nidia Watkins, ACWA JPIA's Member Services Representative II, speaks with guest Walt E. Wendelstein, Managing Partner of Wendelstein Law Group, P.C.

Discussing the vital topic of risk transfer, Nidia shares her expertise in risk management, while Walt provides legal insights specific to water agencies. Together, they unpack the importance of updating risk transfer provisions, implementing proper insurance requirements, and navigating the complexities of water law in California. Through real-world examples they highlight best practices for protecting public agencies and ensuring community safety. Tune in to stay ahead in an evolving legal landscape!