Paul Feusier, 31, began his professional career working for his father and grandfather’s electrical company. When his career journey took him to the City of Coeur d’Alene Water Department, he immediately knew he had found his place. “When I started [there] and saw a division that aligned with my past experience but also offered new challenges and opportunities to grow, I knew that was where I wanted to be.”
Over the years, Feusier’s conviction in having chosen the right career has only grown. “I really enjoy the challenge and complexity of working with water and electrical systems, and I find it rewarding to understand how the two connect and depend on each other,” he said. “I enjoy working with my coworkers to provide safe, clean drinking water to the community. I also appreciate the opportunities we have to continue our education and advance within the industry. I wish I had realized sooner what a solid and rewarding career this is. If I had, I would’ve started earlier and gotten a head start on my retirement.”
Ryan Webster, Feusier’s nominator and the utility supervisor of the City of Coeur d’Alene Water Department, praised Feusier’s ability as “a highly skilled problem solver who consistently excels at troubleshooting our drinking water pumping systems and electrical controls. He approaches every task with precision and dedication, always performing to the highest standards.” Webster went on to say that Feusier also excels at being “a valuable team member and mentor. He willingly shares his knowledge with less experienced staff, helping build a stronger, more capable team.”
Feusier’s own greatest mentors were found close to home in the form of his father and grandfather. “Working with them taught me the value of a strong work ethic and sparked my interest in electrical work.”
A lifelong resident of northern Idaho, he furthers his professional education via classes taken through the Idaho Rural Water Association and American Water College, and his newest hobby, hunting, allows him to spend more time outside enjoying the Idaho countryside. At home, Feusier loves spending time with his wife and two sons.
What has you most excited about the future of this industry?
I’m most excited about seeing new technology emerge that helps us maintain our systems more efficiently and minimize water loss.
What advice would you give to students considering a career in this industry or newcomers to the workforce?
I’d say there are many different paths you can take in this field, and each one can be very rewarding in its own way.
For more on our 10 to Watch finalists, visit pumpsandsystems.com/tags/10-watch.
