To celebrate Black History Month, we are featuring several Philadelphia Water Employees throughout the month. We asked them to share their stories about working at PWD, what they’ve learned during their careers, what inspires them, and what Black History means to them.

Naeem Crawley

Water Conveyance Systems Assistant Superintendent
Distribution Unit

20+ years at PWD
Tell us a little about your PWD career journey. How did you end up in your current position?

I was introduced to PWD through my mother, (retired PWD employee) Joyce Richmond. I started in the Distribution Unit as a Water Distribution Repair Worker. Through on-the-job training & experience, I was promoted through the ranks to the title I now hold.

What’s one thing that people would find interesting about your job that they might not know?

One interesting thing about the unit I work at is the water system itself. Learning the history of how it was installed and why. Knowing the work that is being performed is a vital part of the health and welfare of people across the city.

What’s the best career advice that you received that you could pass on to a potential PWD employee that wants to do what you are doing?

The best career advice I would give to others is to ask for help when needed & be helpful when given the opportunity. Learning knows no bounds.

How are you going to celebrate Black History Month this year?

Every year I research and learn of a new African American pioneer/leader whether vastly known or unspoken of.

Which African American, dead, or alive, would you invite to your dinner party and why?

My Grandmother! Just to see her smile & hear her words of encouragement along with stories of family…

Share an inspirational quote by an African American that motivates you?

“Never be limited by other people’s limited imagination.” – Dr. Mae Jemison (first African American female astronaut)

Finish the statement: Black History means…

Black History means World History! Without us it’s incomplete!