AWWA JAW63485

To optimize its field operations, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utility Department (CMUD) merged its water distribution and wastewater collection work groups into a single division. The success of this integration began with an understanding that it is critical to have the right people, an organization's most valuable resource, in the right roles. Performance at a level of excellence is possible only when people are engaged and working in areas that suit their natural strengths. CMUD's challenge was to maximize the potential of its staff, to identify potential leadership in the organization, and to create a work environment that employees do not want to leave. The key to CMUD's success was using a strengths-based approach to build an organization that facilitates managing the organization's knowledge and resources for longterm sustainability. Includes figures.