Why Water: A Journey with Calvin Robertson

In a conversation with Calvin Robertson, Controls Engineer at Ovivo USA, Municipal/Industrial, we learned about his passion for engineering and innovation and how it led him to make significant contributions to wastewater treatment.

His Journey:

Born and raised in Utah, Calvin pursued his studies in electrical automation and robotics technology at Utah Valley University (UVU). His career began in the pulp and paper industry, where he sharpened his skills in working with programmable controllers and process automation. From there, he moved to a metals and mining corporation, serving as a control systems specialist at their concentrator plant, gaining extensive experience in instrumentation and process control.

However, a downturn in the industry prompted a career shift, leading Calvin to Ovivo. Reflecting on this transition, he notes, “I haven’t always worked in water, it’s a phenomenal industry to work in knowing that the work I do makes a difference in the world.” Calvin’s journey at Ovivo has been a significant step forward, allowing him to engage in more engineering-focused roles and contribute to water treatment innovation.

The Significance of Water:

Water has always been a crucial element in Calvin’s life. Living near Utah Lake, he has witnessed firsthand the challenges of water contamination, such as toxic algae blooms. Working in water treatment has deepened his understanding of the importance of clean water and the complexities involved in maintaining water quality. His work at Ovivo involves developing equipment that treats water so it can be released back into the environment and the natural ecosystems.

Why Water with Ovivo?

Joining Ovivo was a transformative decision for Calvin, “Ovivo fosters an environment where innovation is encouraged, and bureaucracy does not hinder ambition” he says. He recounts his experience with developing a patented control system, adding, “With Ovivo, they’re very supportive of people attempting new ideas or innovating.” This encouraging culture enabled him to secure his first US patent for his Process Aeration Balance Controller and contribute to energy-saving solutions in wastewater treatment. You can find out more details about Calvin’s patent in this article.

Ovivo’s commitment to innovation is evident in the numerous patents associated with the company, he says, “During my research to patent my idea, I was very impressed by how many more patents are connected to Ovivo, it’s a company of innovation”. Calvin believes that this culture of progress and openness to new ideas sets Ovivo apart and allows its employees to achieve remarkable growth and career fulfillment.

What Does the Future of Water Treatment Look Like?

Looking ahead, Calvin sees the future of water treatment as a field filled with both challenges and opportunities. The ongoing problems of water scarcity and the emergence of new contaminants pose significant obstacles, demanding solutions for identification and mitigation. However, these challenges drive innovation and advancements in water treatment technologies, fueling his drive to contribute meaningfully to this industry.