The City of Hendersonville is celebrating Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator Gary Norton, who has been named North Carolina's A-Surface Operator of the Year by the North Carolina Waterworks Operators Association (NCWOA).
Norton was announced as the 2026 A-Surface Operator of the Year during the NCWOA's annual awards banquet on September 23, 2026, at NC State University's McKimmon Center in Raleigh. The award recognizes operators who demonstrate outstanding ability, devotion, and technical expertise in the operation of a water treatment facility.
"Gary has dedicated his entire career to water treatment to ensure high-quality drinking water is available in our region," said Water Treatment Facilities Manager Ricky Levi. "If there is anyone who deserves to be recognized, it is this gentleman. The strength of our team of operators is possible because of him."
Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator Norton has worked at Hendersonville's Water Treatment Facility for 33 years. He started as a third-shift operator and has worked in every aspect of the facility, including operations, maintenance, the laboratory, and compliance.
"He worked his way through the ranks quickly because of his skills and work ethic and rose to the position of Chief Operator, where he has made his greatest impact on the industry and Hendersonville's water system," Levi said. "His expertise was invaluable during Hurricane Helene, and he shined in that challenging environment."