OUC in the news   Press/media contacts   Publication library   Knowledge Center   More about OUC		return to archive News Release Orlando Utilities Commission March 21, 2006 Contact: Grant J. Heston, Communications Manager Sheridan Becht | Erika Hodges OUC HIRES ROB TEEGARDEN, STATE LEADER IN WATER MANAGEMENT, AS VICE PRESIDENT Teegarden Previously Operated Florida’s Most High-Tech Water System ORLANDO - OUC—The Reliable One strengthened its position as a regional water leader today with the hiring of Rob Teegarden as Vice President of the Water Business Unit. Teegarden comes to OUC from the City of Tampa, which operates the most technologically advanced water system in the state and has been at the forefront of alternative water supply development. In his role at OUC, Teegarden will oversee the operation of the three divisions of OUC’s Water Business Unit. Rob Teegarden “We are excited to add Rob to our executive staff,” said Ken Ksionek, OUC General Manager and CEO. “He is a proven leader in Florida water management issues and a great addition to OUC’s award-winning water department.” Prior to joining the City of Tampa, Teegarden worked for Orange County Water for more than 17 years, gaining extensive experience with reclaimed water. He is the incoming Chair-elect of the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association. Teegarden also is a Professional Engineer with more than 20 years of engineering experience and specializing in water resources and water facilities capital planning and construction. He proposed, designed and supervised the construction, and subsequent expansion, of two regional water supply facilities in Orange County: the Eastern Regional Water Supply Facility (ERWSF) and the Western Regional Water Supply Facility (WRWSF). The ERWSF produces 25 million gallons a day (mgd) of water and is expanding to 51 mgd; the WRWSF produces 24 mgd. “OUC’s reputation as a leader in water management and production speaks for itself,” Teegarden said. "I’m excited to begin work at OUC and with our regional partners on the many important water supply and alternative water issues facing our community.” Teegarden graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in environmental engineering. An outfielder for the Gators, the New York Yankees chose Teegarden in 1979 with the 441st pick in the Major League Baseball Draft, ahead of future Yankee great Don Mattingly. Teegarden played in the Yankee organization from 1979-1983. Established in 1923 by a special act of the Florida Legislature, OUC—The Reliable One is the second largest municipal utility in Florida. OUC provides electric and water services to more than 196,000 customers in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties.