To celebrate Asian-American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we are featuring several Philadelphia Water Employees throughout the month of May. We asked them to talk about their work with PWD, how their heritage has shaped their life and work, and what AAPI Heritage means to them.

Michael Ching

Hong Kong Chinese-American

Environmental Scientist
Development Services Unit

1 year at PWD
What is your favorite thing about the work you do with PWD?

I feel really fulfilled by my impact on Philadelphia’s waterways. I work in stormwater management enforcement, so it feels good to be able to mitigate possible point or non-point sources of pollution in Philadelphia’s rivers.

How has your heritage shaped the person you are today? Does it shape your work?

My heritage shapes the way I interact with my natural environment and communities. Seafood is a core part of my culture, and I feel as if I have directed my studies and career to conserve natural resources, such as water quality and fisheries. In doing so, I hope to promote healthier and more available natural resources for communities that rely on them the most.

Does your family have any cultural traditions or practices that are especially important to you?

One cultural tradition I have with my family is our love for crab. For special events, my family loves to eat this Hong Kong dish called Typhoon Shelter Crab, which is a huge platter of stir-fried crab with pork. As we crack open the shells and fight over the best pieces, I’m reminded how food brings us together over the dinner table. Sharing food like this together is quite important, as I believe it builds a sense of community with your loved ones along with a connection to the food itself.

Who are the role models or mentors that have influenced you or helped guide you?

My dad is one of my biggest role models. He had such diligence for his work and community in Philadelphia, especially Chinatown. When I think of him, I am reminded of how important it is to support and work with your communities. His presence in my life has guided me to work for the City of Philadelphia, as I believe I inherited his respect and admiration for this city.

What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you?

I didn’t grow up with May being recognized as AAPI Heritage Month, so it means a lot to have the Asian American and Pacific Islander community be acknowledged and celebrated. Having this month means we the opportunity to highlight the history of Asian Americans in the U.S. that has been looked over or even silenced for centuries.

Favorite AAPI food?

This is a hard choice, but probably Cha Siu, which is also referred to as Honey Barbecue Roast Pork.