Behind the Tap Spotlight: PLC and SCADA Specialist Victor Bros
Meet PLC and SCADA Specialist Victor Bros. When something at one of our plants stops working, there’s a good chance Victor Bros is already on it—often before most people even know there’s a problem. As CCWA’s PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Specialist, Victor works behind the scenes to keep our systems running smoothly. From troubleshooting plant issues to managing system upgrades, his job touches nearly every part of our automated infrastructure. So, what exactly are PLC and SCADA? PLCs are specialized computers that control equipment like pumps and valves. SCADA is the software system that monitors and manages everything remotely. Together, they are the backbone of CCWA’s automation, helping us keep water and wastewater operations running safely and efficiently.
Victor’s day-to-day work revolves around responding to work orders, addressing system issues, and coordinating with other departments like Facilities Maintenance. He also plays a key role in managing SCADA software upgrades, which happen about every three years. “When I first started, we were using desktops. Now everything’s on servers and automated,” Victor said.
He thrives on the challenge of his work. “It’s never the same thing twice,” he shared. “There’s always a problem to solve—and I enjoy that.” One of his biggest challenges? Keeping up with changing software and convincing others of the need to invest in updated equipment.
With more than 20 years at CCWA—and another eight as a contractor before that—Victor’s connection to the Authority runs deep. In fact, he helped install the original SCADA system at the Hicks plant nearly 28 years ago.
Victor has always been interested in automation and control, a passion he followed during college. And while much of his work goes unnoticed, it’s critical. “You can see employees laying pipes or doing work in the field,” he said. “But everything is automated and electronic. If the PLC goes down, the plant goes down. You can’t operate without it.”
Technology has changed a lot over the years, and Victor has evolved with it. “We started with desktops—now everything’s remote. The software and systems we use are completely different.”
Outside of work, Victor enjoys spending time with his family.
As for anyone interested in entering his field, Victor has this advice: “You need to be computer-savvy, especially with software and programs. It’s a mix of IT and imagination. You can learn from a book, but real-world experience is where you really learn. And you’ve got to be creative—we’re designing graphic interfaces every day.” #waterprofessional