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Worked at Louisville Water Since 2021
The world was a lot different just five years ago when Justin Reed started his career at Louisville Water.
“I was hired in January 2021, right in the middle of COVID, which was such an odd time in itself,” he said.
As a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technician, Reed keeps records of all the company’s GIS information, map requests, and various projects that come from the Third Street Corporate Office and Allmond Avenue Distribution Center.
“In short, we keep the information on the mains, hydrants, valves and services as accurate as possible,” he said. “I like my job because it gives me the ability to think outside the box. There’s a lot of information that comes along to us. Think of the water utility as one big puzzle—it’s always connected to something else.”
His love for geography started when he was a child.
“Growing up, my parents would buy me the Rand McNally road maps yearly. I would open them and see where all the roads went to. Looking back, it’s interesting to see how maps ended up being part of my career.”
For someone considering a career as a GIS technician, Reed offered the following advice:
“Learn to communicate and network with people in your field and within the company. There is always something to learn and a new way to do things in GIS. I tried for years but I eventually got my Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) license back in 2023. Even though I have done GIS for years, it required lots of studying from things I learned long ago.”
When Reed isn’t laser-focused on a map, he stays active by exercising.
“I like fantasy football and watching the Cincinnati Bengals, spin cycling, pickleball, lifting, and walking at the different parks in the area. I also like visiting different national parks and museums, and spending time with my friends and parents,” he said.
Speaking of museums, visitors at Louisville Water Tower’s WaterWorks Museum can find Reed’s picture among one of the exhibits.
He’s also a member of Southeast Christian Church where he volunteers in various groups and serves as an usher.
