18990_Authority_Feb_2026

40 The Authority │ February My career path has not followed a traditional or linear course, and that journey has shaped the leader I am today. For the first twenty years of my professional life, I worked in the financial sector. During that time, I built a strong foundation in leadership, organizational management, strategic planning, and fiscal responsibility. Finance taught me how to evaluate risk, manage people, make data-driven decisions, and lead through change—skills that would ultimately serve me far beyond that industry. Ten years ago, an unexpected opportunity arose to move into the public authority world, specifically within the wastewater treatment sector. This transition represented a significant leap into unfamiliar territory. I entered an industry in which I had no prior experience and very little technical knowledge. The learning curve was steep, and success required humility, persistence, and a genuine willingness to listen and learn. I was fortunate to receive guidance and support from several outstanding men in the industry who believed in mentorship and collaboration. Their willingness to share knowledge allowed me to gain the technical understanding necessary to increase my contributions to the organization and grow as a leader. This technical growth proved to be a perfect complement to the management skills I had acquired over the previous two decades. When I joined the Authority, the staff possessed strong technical expertise, but years of ineffective leadership had created a cultural void. Morale was low, and the consequences were evident—high turnover, disengagement, and limited opportunities for professional growth. Low morale does more than affect job satisfaction; it reduces employees’ ability to learn, adapt, and continuously improve. While I continued building my technical knowledge, I focused on what I could immediately contribute: leadership and culture. I worked to promote the right people, hire thoughtfully, and implement policies that emphasize accountability, respect, and professional development. By prioritizing transparency, communication, and trust, we began rebuilding morale and creating a workplace where employees felt valued and empowered. As the organization stabilized, we turned our focus toward long-term sustainability—both operationally and environmentally. Wastewater treatment is often overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in protecting public health and the Each year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. It celebrates the contributions women have made to the United States and recognizes the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields. Meet the following PMAA members from several disciplines within the municipal authority industry – their contributions and achievements as well as their journeys in this industry. A Nontraditional Path to Leadership, Innovation, and Sustainability in Public Service Shannon Drosnock, Executive Director, Montgomery Township Municipal Sewer Authority