395 A Career Flowing with Purpose: Five Decades of Water Wisdom with Bob Cunningham

Here we go!

We have the privilege of collaborating with our lab partner Bob Cunningham, of Arthur Freedman Associates, a true water industry expert whose journey flows through five decades of dedication, transformation, and insight. Starting his own company 35 years ago, Bob has navigated the currents of change in the field, sharing the lessons that come from a lifetime of experience. For those new to the water industry, Bob’s story will inspire you to write your own chapters with integrity and resilience; for seasoned professionals, it’s a reminder of the profound impact a lifelong commitment to this work can make.

What Was Your Career Journey Like?
Reflecting on the story of his career, Bob described a path full of purpose and momentum, driven by a passion for water treatment and a vision for what it could become. “Stand back, and here we go!” he recalled, capturing the excitement of building his career. Founding his own company was a wish come true, powered by the “dream team” he assembled to carry it forward. Decades later, Bob’s journey is a testament to the possibilities that await those who dedicate themselves to the water treatment profession.

The Good and the Bad Changes Over the Years
With years of experience flowing behind him, Bob has observed major shifts in the water industry. He identified two of the most positive changes he’s seen:

1. Industry Diversification: With more people setting up their own companies, the wave of new businesses has strengthened the industry and fostered innovation.
2. Advancements in Research: Today’s resources—from molecules to biocides and surfactants—have expanded far beyond what was available in the past, equipping professionals with powerful tools to improve water systems.

Still, Bob also pointed out challenges, notably the drive for “greener” policies that, while well-intentioned, sometimes lack the scrutiny needed to ensure they’re effective and sustainable.

Advice for New Water Professionals
Bob shared valuable advice for those just beginning their own journey: “Keep it straight. Keep it ethical. Don’t stretch it.” In a field as important as water treatment, integrity flows through every successful career. Bob also warns against trying to gain business by cutting prices, as it ultimately backfires. Instead, he encourages presenting quality, honest solutions as the key to long-term success and respect in the field.

What is the Best Way to Get Ahead in This Industry?
When it comes to advancing in water treatment, Bob suggests taking a page from those who’ve already made a mark. “Watch the successful people in the industry. Keep an eye on those folks. Then try to incorporate what they are doing into your own career as you grow.” He also emphasized the importance of broad, in-depth knowledge: “You’ve got to know every aspect of this business. So, study.” From mechanical and microbiological aspects to chemistry, Bob’s advice highlights the depth and commitment it takes to ride the waves of a successful career in water.

How Did You Get Involved with the AWT?
Bob’s connection with the Association of Water Technologies (AWT) began as a way to network with others who share a passion for advancing the industry. Over the years, his work with AWT has strengthened his dedication to education, standards, and mentorship within the field.

Bob’s Go-To References
Navigating the water industry requires solid references, and Bob’s approach has always been to keep his library of resources close at hand. When faced with challenges, he turns to trusted materials that help him troubleshoot and understand the complex systems in his work. For Bob, maintaining this holistic knowledge is essential to staying effective and adaptive in an ever-evolving industry.

Scale UP! Your Water Career
Tune into this episode for a front-row view of Bob’s life in water—a story of purpose, change, and professional wisdom. May it inspire you to embrace your own journey in water, staying curious and informed as you flow from one chapter to the next.

Timestamps
01:00 - Trace Blackmore wants to remind you that the 12 Week Year is a powerful tool to help you maximize these final weeks of the year and achieve your goals for 2024. Let’s finish strong!
03:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
10:40 - Interview with Bob Cunningham
01:04:15 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald 

Connect with Bob Cunningham
Phone: [phone]
Email:  [email protected]
Website: https://arthurfreedmanassociates.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cunningham-635a7748/ 

Resources Mentioned
Audible (free month with this link)
AWT (Association of Water Technologies)
The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months by Brian P. Moran
The Rising Tide Mastermind
Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses
Submit a Show Idea

Drop By Drop with James 
In today’s episode, I want you to picture yourself looking at the water level in the basin of a cooling tower. You may want to press fast forward on your imagination just a little, but as you watch the water, you see the water level dropping ever so slowly as water evaporates away or is being blown down from the system. At some point, you notice makeup water starts flowing into the basin. My question for you is what control scheme caused this to happen? Have you ever put much thought into all these ways makeup water is controlled in a cooling tower system? Is there a float mechanism? Perhaps probes of some sort? Or is there an ultrasonic device? Are there others? Also, is the makeup valve mechanically opened or electronically opened? What are the pros and cons of each option? What if there is foaming in the cooling tower basin? Would any of these control schemes be impacted? What are all the way these makeup control schemes could fail? Could they fail so too much makeup water was added? Could they fail so too little makeup water was added? Who would have thought there was so much to think about on just the makeup water control to a cooling tower system? 

Events for Water Professionals
Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.