Water Division Award For AUB's Rex Wilcox

Media Contact:

Wayne Scarbrough

(423) 745-4501 ext. 6002

wscarbrough@aub.org

November 30, 2018

ATHENS, Tenn. – Rex Wilcox is Athens Utilities Board’s (AUB) latest employee to gain recognition within his field of work. Wilcox, an employee of AUB for 26 years, received the M. L. Brickey Award from the Tennessee Water and Wastewater Association (TWWA) for his outstanding service to water quality control.

The award was presented to Wilcox at the TWWA Lower East Region meeting in Etowah, Tenn., on November 15.

The M.L. Brickey Award is given annually to a water treatment operator who has “exhibited the characteristics of distinguished service, leadership, dedication, guidance, devotion, and untiring workmanship,” according to TWWA literature.

Craig Brymer, AUB’s Water and Wastewater Superintendent, nominated Wilcox for the award because of his experience and daily service.

“I nominated Rex for the award because he's become such a valuable employee.  He really has become a go-to guy for pretty much anything, water or otherwise.

“He knows our water system as well as anyone. As his co-worker’s know, he’s a straight shooter and can deliver both good and bad news if it’s necessary.  He is also unflappable under pressure.  AUB is fortunate to have him,” stated Brymer.  

Wilcox began his career with AUB in 1992 as a wastewater treatment plant operator at the Oostanaula Treatment Plant. In 1995, Wilcox transitioned to the water division and currently works as a leadsman or senior laborer.

“I enjoy working in the community I was born and raised in. Working a public job—because of the service to the community—is why I am still working at AUB today,” stated Wilcox.

Wilcox’s daily responsibilities include labor work such as excavating and repairing water lines and going on service calls to talk with customers.

“I enjoy the hands-on work of my job, but I also like talking with customers. Most customers are thankful we’re here to help them by locating issues and solving their problems,” Wilcox said.

The award came as a surprise to Wilcox as he believes that each day of work is truly a team effort.

“It is humbling to receive any award and I’m thankful for it. I’m really only as good as the employees I work with. It takes all of us to do what we do,” Wilcox said.

Wilcox and his fiancée, Tammie, reside in the McMinn County area with their children—Joshua, Honor, Sean, Caleb, China, and Raven.

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