RACHEL KLOOS
ISG
SAY IT LOUD - SOUTH DAKOTA Exhibitor
South Dakota Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My chemistry professor taught those who hadn’t taken college-level chemistry. He made mistakes, but his passion was clear. He introduced me to science in a new way and helped me turn my interest in the environment into a career.
RACHEL KLOOS
Bio:
The great designer Rachel Kloos is an industry innovator and the leader of ISGÕs water/wastewater group. With a 20-year career marked by a commitment to environmental stewardship and advocacy for resilient community design, Rachel's passion for sustainability is evident in her focus on enhancing water quality and availability. Her empathy, team-building skills, and ability to forge strong relationships drive her impactful work.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
As a kid, I observed how people can positively and negatively affect the environment. This stuck with me through college, when I learned about water and wastewater design and realized I had the passion to make a career out of it.
What do you do?
As ISG’s water/wastewater group leader, I manage designers, engineers, and project quality assurance and control. I also work with clients to understand their processes to optimize, manage, and positively impact their wastewater systems.
What excites you in the work you do?
At the end of a project, I take a step back and watch clean water flow out of the wastewater treatment system, knowing it will make a positive impact on the environment and community. I appreciate knowing we are making a real difference.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My chemistry professor taught those who hadn’t taken college-level chemistry. He made mistakes, but his passion was clear. He introduced me to science in a new way and helped me turn my interest in the environment into a career.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
My proudest moments are seeing my team members succeed. Whether they are giving a presentation or earning promotions, I love sitting in the audience and watching them grow to be an awesome individual.
Featured Project Name:
Valley Queen Cheese Wastewater Treatment Plant
Featured Project Location:
Milbank, SD
Featured Project Completion Date:
December 2024
Role in Featured Project:
Water/Wastewater Oversight
Featured Project Description:
ISG was called to stabilize and investigate the full treatment system at the Valley Queen Cheese wastewater treatment plant. A temporary equalization tank, dissolved air flotation system, and treatment building were deployed to stabilize the system before ISG completed an extensive evaluation, including 3D scanning of the facility and a review of production goals. ISG oversaw vendor coordination, confirmed equipment designs, and designed the infrastructure to accommodate equipment servicing.