For the second time in as many years, two of Pueblo Water’s best and brightest were honored recently by the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Pueblo.

Sarah Mutz and Taylor Maik were honored as two of Pueblo’s 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders for 2022. They, along with 38 of their peers, were feted on June 24, 2022, at the Pueblo Convention Center.

They followed in the footsteps of Ryan Dalton and Justin Richardson, who were honored in 2021, and Kristen Spicola, who was named an emerging leader by the Latino Chamber in 2019.

Sarah, 32, is Pueblo Water’s Water Quality Lab Specialist who began her career with Pueblo Water in 2014. Sarah earned a degree in Biology from Colorado State University Pueblo and uses her skills as a scientist every day as she is instrumental in the testing of Pueblo’s water. Sarah also serves on the board at the Colorado Spay & Neuter Association and is an annual participant in the Walk for Life.

Water Quality Lab Supervisor Joel Purfield said this of Sarah: “Sarah’s leadership is exemplified by her willingness to help with training new people in developing their skills in laboratory analyses. Sarah works in a lead position, with newer and less experienced analysts looking to her to provide best practice guidance. Sarah maintains a diligence to public health and safety in every aspect of her performance. Perhaps her most admirable trait as a leader is her unfaltering positive attitude and eagerness to assist in all team efforts.”

Taylor, 27, is Pueblo Water’s Design Engineer. Taylor designs projects for Pueblo Water’s main replacement program as well as projects and developments. He issues plans and manages contracts for the main replacement program as well. He serves on Pueblo Water’s Employee Recognition Committee and is a recent graduate of Leadership Pueblo.

Transmission, Distribution & Engineering Manager Scot Burbidge said Taylor is an integral part of the Pueblo Water team.

“He has performed well in his role as Design Engineer and is a valuable resource among Pueblo Water's leadership group and carries a high level of responsibility in ensuring that we can continue our great service to the Pueblo community,” Burbidge said. “Taylor is a dedicated team member who has obtained the highest degree of Certification as a Class IV Water Distribution system operator.”