Staff Spotlight: Isa Perez, Assistant Laboratory and Regulatory Manager
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
For Isa Perez, a career in water started with a passion for science and a desire to make a meaningful impact. Since joining the Commission in 2022, Isa has had an accelerated career path rooted in hard work, curiosity, and a commitment to protecting one of our most important resources—drinking water.
Isa joined the Commission as a Laboratory Technician and quickly began taking on new responsibilities and expanding her knowledge of water quality operations. In 2023, she was promoted to Chemist, and in 2024, she advanced into her current role as Assistant Laboratory and Regulatory Manager, working under the direction of the Laboratory and Regulatory Manager.
“Working at the Commission has given me the opportunity to continue learning every day while being part of work that directly impacts public health and the communities we serve,” said Isa. “I’ve been fortunate to grow in my career here, and I’m excited to continue developing alongside the organization as we look toward the future.”
From Chemistry Student to Water Professional
Before joining the Commission, Isa earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Smith College. During her studies, she developed a strong interest in environmental science and water quality analysis, including coursework focused on the properties of water and analytical chemistry.
“Throughout my education, I performed many of the same types of tests that are used in the Commission’s Drinking Water Laboratory at West Parish Filters,” said Isa. “It was exciting to take what I learned in school and apply it to work that has a real impact on our customers every day.”
Protecting Water Quality Around the Clock
Every day, Isa and the laboratory team help safeguard the quality of the water delivered to customers throughout the lower Pioneer Valley region through comprehensive monitoring and testing. By analyzing more than 50,000 tests each year, the team carefully evaluates the Commission’s treatment processes and the quality of our drinking water.
“Our work provides the data that supports operational decisions and helps keep the Commission in compliance with state and federal regulations,” Isa said. “Many of those regulations are directly tied to public health and environmental protection, which are two key pillars of the Commission’s mission.”
Isa’s responsibilities include helping manage laboratory operations, leading bi-weekly meetings with lab leaders, supporting employee development, assisting with budget management and procurement, and providing laboratory and regulatory support during both routine and emergency situations.
Isa also helps prepare and submit reports required for the state and federal regulations governing public water systems. “Executing these reporting requirements is an important part of our work so the Commission remains in compliance while continuing to provide reliable drinking water service,” Isa said.
“Water quality testing is something that happens every day, all year long,” said Isa. “Our laboratory team is constantly working behind the scenes to make sure our treatment process is effective and that our customers can trust the water coming out of their taps.”
Looking Ahead to a New Laboratory for the Future
As the Commission continues constructing the new West Parish Treatment Plant, Isa looks forward to the opportunity to bring modern technology, improved processes, and a renewed focus on innovation to the Commission’s laboratory operations.
“The new laboratory will be a great improvement for our team,” said Isa. “Having more space, new equipment, and an advanced deionized water system that is directly connected to our workstations will make a big difference for our laboratory staff, who perform thousands of tests every year. The new laboratory will help make their jobs more efficient and allow them to continue doing what they do best—safeguarding our water.”
