MRG Perspectives—Project Outcomes, Lessons Learned and Takeaways with Rudolf Ohlemutz
Rudolf is a Wastewater, Flood Control and Water Resources specialist with MRG. He has extensive experience in the engineering, regulatory and operational aspects of capital facilities as both a consultant and public agency engineer. Rudolf has over 40 years of experience and for 16 years was Director of Engineering and Field Operations for the Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District. He has MS and Doctor of Engineering degrees from UC Berkeley. Below are some of his recent projects:
- Sewer Authority Mid-Coastside and Carmel Area Wastewater District: Staffing and Service Delivery Analysis
These short-term studies consisted of staff interviews, development of recommendations and presentation of results. MRG Report of analysis and recommendations was respectfully appreciated. Recommendations focused on organizational improvements for consideration by the agencies:
- Recommendation for staffing to optimize organizational resiliency and service delivery
- Recommendation regarding outside vs. inside lab services
- Recommendations for training and staff retention
2. Special Projects: City of Citrus Heights, General Services Department, Engineering Division
Rudolf’s role was to develop a strategic approach to permits and prioritize capital projects. His focus was on analyzing the client’s role in regional permit structure, shepherding various permits through agencies, and expediting capital projects through permit issues, technical, and right-of-way complications.
Takeaway: Water-related engineering is an increasingly demanding field and suffers from a shortage of qualified practitioners. Even with a short-term engagement, an experienced consultant can set a strategy, resolve immediate issues, and help an agency plan to meet the demands of growth and change.