Dr. Alvin Percy Black

Dr. A. P. Black was born in Blossom, Texas, in 1895. 

In 1920 he joined the faculty of the University of Florida as Assistant Professor of Chemistry and later department head . Dr. Black became a leader in Florida's water industry during this tenure at the University where he was a key participant in the development of operator training in the State of Florida. Dr. Black organized the first short course, which was presented in April, 1930. This valuable operator training provided by the short schools was recognized by the State Board of Health. As a result of his service to the operators Dr. Black was made an Honorary Life Member of our association. 

Dr. Black was also an active member of the American Water Works Association where he served as both National Director and President. He served as a member of the National Advisory Dental Research Council of the U. S. Public Health Service, and was appointed by the Surgeon General as one of the original members of the Advisory Committee on Coagulant Aids in water treatment. He is considered a pioneer in the design of water treatment systems and has served as a national consultant to the office of Saline Water of the Department of the Interior. Dr. Black was the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his work and contributions to the development of systems and techniques in the field of water purification and distribution. 

During World War I Dr. Black was in the Chemical Warfare Service. Dr. Black earned his Bachelor of Science degree at Southwestern University, completed graduate studies at Iowa State College and Harvard, and received his Doctorate from the University of Iowa. He was one of the original founders in 1947, along with William B. Crow and Frederic A. Eidsness of the firm Black, Crow and Eidsness which became part of CH2M Hill in 1977. He passed away on February 23, 1980, at the age of 84.

In honor of Dr. A.P. Black, the Operators Association selects an operator in Water and Wastewater, and a systems operator, including Stormwater Systems and Reclaimed Water Systems, whose outstanding personal performance is deserving of special recognition.