Meet Control System Operator Morgan Loren

26 March 2024


Morgan Loren is Murray Irrigation's first female Control System Operator. Every day she gets to learn something new about the ebb and flow of water throughout Murray Irrigation's sweeping channel system. Read on to find out a little bit more about Morgan and her work.   


Can you tell us a little bit about your working background and what led you down this particular career path? 

 

My background is predominantly in the medical sector, with a short stint in the mining industry. 

 

During Covid, I began studying my Bachelor of Science majoring in regenerative agriculture. Unfortunately a lot of practical classes were cancelled due to the pandemic, so I could not complete my degree at that time.


However, the education I did receive was enough to pique my interest in agriculture so when I moved to Deniliquin, I was fascinated by how water is moved throughout the district via channel systems. 

 

When a position became available as a Control System Operator, I jumped at the opportunity to learn more about how this company supplies water to the agricultural industry here.   

What does being a MIL Control System Operator entail?


Being a Control System Operator involves operating a control system that delivers water to customers. Our aim is to ensure that customers receive their water orders in full and on time.

 

We also monitor and action alarms as well as identify issues within the channels.


Our team works on a roster that ensures the channels are monitored 24/7, 365 days a year. 


What do you think are the key skills you need to successfully perform the role?


The skills that assist in becoming a Control System Operator include:

 

  • Experience with computers.
  • Ability to handle high pressure situations calmly.
  • Ability to handle a high volume of work – When its busy, it is BUSY!
  • Experience with data entry and numbers.
  • Problem solving and analytical skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.


What do you enjoy most about your job?


I love that there is so much to be learned about the control system and, because of that, I get to learn something new every day and put it into action.

 

I also really enjoy the routine of operating the control system and knowing what I need to do every day.


What is the greatest challenge?


As rewarding as being a Control System Operator is, there are challenges.

 

The technology we use is ever-evolving and is continuously being upgraded so it is fit-for-purpose.

 

While this is great news for us and our customers, it can sometimes create challenges as we adjust to the changing technology. 

 

Big changes in flow (volume of water) and weeds in the channel system also pose varying degree of challenges for us.


We try to pre-emptively adjust the channels, however, sometimes water doesn’t always react the way we think it will. 


How would you describe your team's culture? 


I am very fortunate to work within a dynamic team.

 

We have an excellent group of people operating the control system who are continually discussing solutions to any issues that arise so that the channel performance is the best it can be.

 

The experienced guys are always willing to share knowledge and help with any questions we have. 


I couldn’t ask for a better team.


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