November 25, 2024
Located at our Grand Rapids Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) is Plant Supervisor Nick Rosendall. With an extensive background in environmental services, Nick has been an invaluable member of Crystal Clean since April 2020. His journey into the industry began in 2016 with part-time roles handling barges, tanks, and dredging work. Since then, he’s risen through the ranks—from a Plant Technician managing truck unloading and other operations, to his current role overseeing complex wastewater processes, including handling PFAS waste.
A typical day for Nick involves balancing a variety of tasks, from arranging paperwork to overseeing the smooth operation of each department. He tackles any issues that arise, prioritizing them with precision and ensuring compliance at every stage. Nick’s attention to detail and commitment to safety is central to his role. “Keeping things as clean and organized as possible is crucial in our line of work,” he explains, emphasizing that these routines are key to the facility’s productivity.
Nick’s dedication to detail has led to significant improvements. One of his proudest achievements includes designing the bin layout for the facility’s drum shredder in SolidWorks, leveraging skills he developed from his mechanical engineering studies at Grand Valley State University. His innovative contributions have also been instrumental in the installation of multiple SAFF® units, which process waste streams contaminated with PFAS and have become an essential part of the facility’s operations.
“Nick has been instrumental in helping grow our Grand Rapids facility. His leadership has helped us navigate through a major Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) system expansion and integrating the PFAS removal systems in the facility over the last couple of years” said Mike Petkovich, VP of Operations for Wastewater & Antifreeze Facilities. “Nick has positioned himself to take on more responsibility and mentor new employees within our wastewater operations. His dedication and attention to detail is exemplary. He has helped to develop this site into a state-of-the-art facility!”
For Nick, safety isn’t just a policy—it’s a core value he lives by. “Everyone wants to go home to their families at night,” he says, highlighting the high-stakes nature of working with heavy machinery. His commitment to this principle has earned him recognition across the company for his dedication to maintaining a safe work environment.
When asked what advice he would give to fellow employees, Nick emphasizes accountability and personal pride in one’s work. “Work hard even when no one is watching, and always hold yourself to a high standard,” he encourages. This mindset not only strengthens his team but also brings a deeper level of satisfaction to each workday.
Nick’s impact goes beyond his daily responsibilities. Colleagues know him for his respect and openness to new ideas, and his managers appreciate his calm, collected approach to any challenge. Looking to the future, Nick envisions continued growth for Crystal Clean’s wastewater treatment services, with more SAFF units supporting the rising need for PFAS treatment.
Outside of work, Nick stays active with his wife and close-knit family, often spending time training for marathons or practicing his passion for drone photography and videography. His dedication, both to his team and to personal growth, is an inspiration at Crystal Clean. His leadership promises continued success for the Grand Rapids WWTF.
