Why Water: A Journey with Johnny Haas

In a conversation with Johnny Haas, Site Manager at Ovivo, Electronics, he takes us on his journey through the water industry reflecting a deep-seated commitment to innovation, sustainability, and mentorship. His work with Ovivo has not only advanced the field of water treatment but also inspired a new generation of engineers.

His Journey:

Starting his career with a degree in mechanical engineering, Johnny embarked on a professional journey that took him from Switzerland to Africa, and ultimately, around the world. With over 50 years of experience, he has been a reliable presence in the water industry, primarily working with Ovivo after an initial job at a power plant. His early experience at the power plant involved working on a water-cooled generator, sparking a lifelong passion for water treatment.

The Significance of Water:

For Johnny, the significance of water extends beyond its essential role in industrial processes. „I spent my entire life in the water industry, it’s so important to me. We are slowly running out of water, and we need to take care of it and recycle it. I’m definitely in the right business for that“ he notes. This realization has driven his commitment to the industry, where he has dedicated his life to ensuring the availability and quality of water. “You can treat water so that you can drink it again, like in Singapore with the New Water project. I was lucky to work on this project and experience the result firsthand. Everyone there is drinking this new water” he says.

Why Water with Ovivo?

Joining Ovivo was a pivotal decision for Johnny, aligning with his interest in mechanical processes and engineering applications in water treatment. He highlights the uniqueness of Ovivo, particularly in the semiconductor sector, stating, „I think we are number one in the world in this business.“ This success is attributed to Ovivo’s commitment to innovation, technology, and nurturing talent.

His career at Ovivo has been marked by numerous assignments and achievements across the world. These opportunities allowed him to fulfill his initial aspirations to build and innovate in the water industry. He now focuses on mentoring the next generation of engineers, aiming to instill the same passion and commitment that has driven him for decades.

What Does the Future of Water Treatment Look Like?

Looking ahead, Johnny envisions significant advancements in water treatment, particularly in addressing the challenges of drinking water scarcity. „For drinking water, I think there is still more we can learn and do because the whole world is slowly running out of drinking water,“ he says. He emphasizes the need for continued innovation in seawater treatment and better management of pollutants, such as plastics and industrial chemicals, to ensure safe and sustainable water supplies.

According to him, the future of water treatment will require a multifaceted approach, tackling issues like turbidity caused by microplastics and industrial particles. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering a deeper understanding of water pollutants, the industry can develop effective solutions to these pressing challenges.