Fredrick Dionisio, CUC Water Distribution Operator Specialist I
Lloyd Tarope, CUC Water Trades Assistant
(CUC) — The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation is celebrating the accomplishments of two of its Water Division employees, whose recent milestones reflect the dedication, skill, and promise of the CNMI’s next generation of water professionals.
At the Pacific Water and Wastewater Association Conference held in the Solomon Islands in August, Fredrick Dionisio, Water Distribution Operator Specialist I, was named the 2025 Young Water Professional of the Year. Selected out of 26 participants across the Pacific, Dionisio was recognized for his dedication, innovation, and leadership. “To be chosen out of the 26 other esteemed and passionate young water professionals is truly an honor and blessing for me,” he said. He added that this award represents years of training, certifications, and valuable lessons, and envisions young professionals shaping the CNMI’s water services by “bringing fresh and innovative ideas while building on past operations.”
Dionisio expressed gratitude to his family, colleagues, and mentors, as well as to CUC management and the Australian Water Partnership, for supporting his journey and believing in his potential. He also encouraged other young people to consider working in utilities: “You gain valuable trade skills and personal growth experiences, while knowing that your daily work directly gives back to your community.”
For his part, Lloyd Tarope, Water Trades Assistant, achieved his BECQ-DEQ Water Treatment and Distribution Plant Operator Class 1 Certification while participating in CUC’s Registered Apprenticeship Program.
Tarope, one of nine employees selected in June as CUC’s first apprentices under the U.S. Department of Labor-recognized program, described earning his certification as an important first step.
“It feels great to have earned my certification. It feels like I’ve taken my first step toward my goals, and it motivates me to keep moving forward,” he said.
He credited the Apprenticeship Program for expanding his knowledge of CUC’s systems and troubleshooting skills, while acknowledging the challenge of overcoming self-doubt. “Thanks to my mentors, colleagues, and family, I was able to overcome that and succeed,” he said.
Looking ahead, Tarope hopes to pursue higher-level certifications and inspire others to do the same. “My advice to young people is to do it. The program gave me the knowledge and skills I have now, and I believe it can help them too.”
Together, Dionisio’s and Tarope’s accomplishments highlight the growing role of young professionals in building a stronger, more resilient future for the CNMI’s water services.
