By day, David Vilcherrez is an Assistant Engineer for the SFPUC’s Water Quality Division based in Mocassin. His typical day involves responding to emails from various work groups, checking SCADA for overall water quality of the system and working on reports. But in the evening, particularly on the annual Dinner with a Scientist event, Vilcherrez enjoys connecting with young people from Tuolumne County on career opportunities in STEM.

“STEM is important because it gives students an opportunity to learn more about science and engineering and be on track to excel in those fields,” he shared.

Vilcherrez shared that the reason he volunteers in the local community is because it gives him the opportunity to provide insight and mentor future scientists and engineers.

“Dinner with a Scientist is a great way to meet young people and answer any questions or doubts they may have as I did growing up,” said Vilcherrez.

His advice to middle and high school students interested in science and a career in the utilities industry, ” Work hard, be persistent and don’t forget to thank those that have helped you in your work (colleagues, technicians, etc.). It goes a long way!”