The Hans Peterson Operator Award is bestowed upon a Saskatchewan First Nations water systems operator who carries out their duties as an operator with enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. S/he must have great record keeping skills and have maintained their certification throughout their career as an operator.

The 2022 Recipient of the Hans Peterson Operator Award is Wes Paskemin!

Wes Paskemin is a Sweetgrass First Nation band member on Treaty 6 territory. He is a devoted grandfather, father, and husband.

He has a passion like no other to provide for all, and has dedicated many decades to his community, providing clean, safe drinking water, and staying up throughout the night when required. He is a proven asset in assuring the safety of the community's water. He is also known for his work ethic and his determination for not only his work on his own First Nation water infrastructure, but to the many others that span across Treaty Six.

Chief Bobby Cameron, Chief of FSIN, nominated Wes and shared that "It's a privilege to have seen him in action and also listen to him when he gives great advice on providing clean, safe drinking water on our First Nations. Wes Paskemin has been the Main Water Operator in Sweetgrass First Nation for 23 years. Prior to that, he had been working at the Sweetgrass Water Treatment Plant for 8 years as Assistant Operator. He is a Level 2 Operator and has never missed a Continuing Professional Development course, ensuring his license is in good standing. Wes had simultaneously served 3 First Nations for nearly a year - Little Pine, Poundmaker, and Sweetgrass. He then went on to serve Poundmaker and Sweetgrass for 11 years. Throughout his career, he has been called upon by various Chiefs and Councils for Water Project Management advisory."

Previous Awards that Wes Paskemin won:
* Indian Health Department BTC Award Recipient 2006 - Best Record Keeping
* Indian Health Department BTC Award Recipient 2007 - Best Record Keeping
* BTC Indian Health Services Inc. 2007 - Water Quality Appreciation Recognition For Providing Safe Drinking Water

Thank you to Delco Water for sponsoring the plaque and the $1,000 prize.