"I've spent most of my career here at the plant, and many people have guided me. I'm very appreciative of the opportunities and trust I've been given," said Jim Wang, Construction Manager for the New Headworks Facility Project at the Southeast Treatment Plant (SEP). 

The project is replacing the outdated Headworks Facility responsible for beginning the treatment process, removing debris (such as baby wipes) and grit (like sand) from the wastewater stream, and protecting downstream equipment. A healthy, well-functioning Headworks is critical for the SEP to operate efficiently. 

The new Headworks Facility will use modern, efficient technologies to improve the treatment process and odor control within a smaller, more compact facility. "Modern technology means the same work can be done in a smaller area," he said. "The new headworks takes up half the space."

The additional space allows for the construction of a new Odor Control system which will contain and control odors more effectively. In the existing Headworks, when the debris is loaded and unloaded, it is exposed to the open air. The new building will be fully enclosed to contain the air and route it through an odor control unit. 

"The best thing is to capture the odors before they get outdoors in the first place," said Wang. "The people who live near here deserve this. They're the ones impacted."

Located in the Bayview neighborhood, Wang has spent most of his career at this Treatment Plant. "I've worked on various components and processes," said Wang, "and for that entire time, the one common concern from the community has been odor control."

Caring is key

Wang immigrated to the US from Vietnam when he was ten years old and did not speak English. His family moved a lot and eventually settled in West Palo Alto in a neighborhood bordering East Palo Alto.

"Our house was literally on the border of both towns," said Wang. He attended a prestigious elementary school in Palo Alto and then a middle and high school on the east side, which opened his eyes to the disparities within marginalized communities. 

 "As a kid coming from an insulated family, I was exposed to different worlds," he reflected. "I am grateful I had that experience which helped me be less insulated and learn compassion for people with different backgrounds."

He changed schools several times before graduating and went on to attend San Francisco State University. As a senior, Wang was hired by the Department of Public Works as an intern. 

"I was in the Engineering Department. They just threw me into reviewing project specifications and construction submittals. I was like, 'What is this, and why am I reading it?'" he laughed.  

The experience taught him a lot. "That's where I learned to look at projects from more than an engineering point of view. Little did I know that this would be my first step into construction management."

Wang graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1992. He attributed his success at that first job to the patience of his supervisor. "He trusted me and spent the energy to teach me. He guided me through my mistakes." 

His supervisor became a mentor to him and, "because he did that for me," said Wang, "I continue to do that here. When people succeed, it's important not only for them as individuals but for the entire project."

Leading a crucial project for San Francisco

As Construction Manager, Wang oversees a complicated plan to build the most complex project at the SEP. 

The New Headworks Facility Project faces unique challenges. Since the SEP treats 80% of San Francisco's wastewater and stormwater, it must continue to operate through construction. Wang is responsible for coordinating with adjacent SEP projects, orchestrating the demolition of the old and construction of the new facilities within the space constraints of the original footprint, while ensuring construction doesn't interrupt operations.

This makes it the plant's most complex project and high stakes for SFPUC's infrastructure. Construction has been underway for five years, and while much of the facility's structural work has been completed, final completion is anticipated in 2024.

In addition to advanced odor control, once complete, the modern facility will improve seismic reliability, provide operational flexibility, and enhance grit removal; which will help ensure the remaining processes at the plant run smoothly.

This project is part of the overall Sewer System Improvement Program (SSIP), a multi-billion-dollar investment to upgrade and modernize San Francisco's critical sewer infrastructure with new technologies to improve operations, reduce odors, better manage stormwater, and safeguard against climate impacts, like sea level rise.