Press Releases

Tymrak Becomes First Woman to Lead Utility Operations in Its 125-Year History

NEW ORLEANS, LA — Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) has named Kaitlin Tymrak, P.E. as General Superintendent, following the Board of Directors confirmation on May 20, 2026.

Tymrak has served SWBNO for nearly six years, most recently as Deputy General Superintendent for Pumping and Power, where she guided the Power Complex project from its inception through its successful launch in December 2025. In this role she also led a team of over 450 staff across major divisions involved in water treatment, power and drainage operations, facility maintenance, and environmental affairs. She was appointed Interim General Superintendent in January 2026.

Her appointment is a landmark moment for one of New Orleans' most essential public institutions, which has delivered water and sewerage services to residents since 1899, as the first woman to hold the position in the utility’s 125-year history.

"Kaitlin is exactly the kind of leader SWBNO and the people of New Orleans deserve," said Randy Hayman, Executive Director of SWBNO. "She is qualified, passionate, and tireless in her commitment to this utility and the communities we serve. I have watched her lead with both expertise and heart, and I have full confidence that she will continue to work diligently on behalf of every resident who depends on us."

"Since joining the utility nearly six years ago, my focus has always been on supporting the hardworking men and women who serve this city every day," said Tymrak. "At the same time, I have had the opportunity to work on strategic initiatives that improve the utility and our services to customers. I have been fortunate to be mentored by three General Superintendents, and I am honored to carry on the incredible legacy of this utility that makes modern life possible in New Orleans."

Tymrak also acknowledges the significance of the moment beyond her own career. "While I may be the first female General Superintendent, I stand on the shoulders of pioneering women who have worked in engineering, operations, and maintenance at this organization for decades," she said. "Women are underrepresented in infrastructure and public works, and I hope that seeing me in this role inspires other women to pursue leadership in this field."

Looking forward, Tymrak will be tackling the challenges of aging infrastructure and increasing costs, including developing a programmatic approach to water main replacements, implementing the lead service line replacement program, and preparing for future upgrades to the water treatment facilities.

Tymrak holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Engineering, and a Master’s of Engineering in Water Resources. She is a registered professional engineer in the state of Louisiana and holds several water and wastewater operator certifications. Prior to joining SWBNO, she worked in New Orleans in the engineering consulting industry for over a decade.

About the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans

Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans is responsible for providing safe drinking water, wastewater treatment, and drainage services to the residents and businesses of New Orleans. For more information, visit swbno.org.