by Amanda Bricker, Lab Technician
Over twenty years ago, I had just completed an internship with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore where I helped examine the chemistry of the water and conduct a fish survey of the park’s inland lakes. I tested the E. coli levels at the park’s beaches weekly, monitoring for any potential beach closures. That summer experience gave me my first real glimpse of environmental work in action.
It influenced me to shift my final year at Alma College to focus more heavily on environmental classes, but when I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, I wasn’t entirely sure where it would lead. I did not have a clear plan, just a growing interest in the kind of work that helped protect people and the natural world. It only took a few months after graduation, and I joined the lab team at Prein&Newhof. The reason I have stayed for over two decades is simple: I believe in what we do.
At Prein&Newhof’s Laboratory, we test drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, groundwater, surface water, soils, sludges—you name it. We look at everything from bacteria like coliform and E. coli to chemical contaminants like per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances, lead, nitrates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). We work with municipalities, private well owners, local businesses, and environmental consultants on a daily basis. No matter who we are serving, I always feel like I’m contributing to something that matters.
There’s a real sense of purpose in knowing that the work we do helps people make informed decisions about their water. Whether a family is testing their well for peace of mind, or a city is monitoring its water system to better understand trends over time, the data we provide plays an important role. We’re here to provide reliable testing that helps guide the next steps and inform big decisions.
My son once said to me, “Your job is only fun when people have bad water.” It made me laugh because, in a way, he’s right—there is something rewarding about being part of the response when someone has a concern or a problem with their water. When people are worried about what’s coming out of their tap, they’re often scared or overwhelmed. Being able to offer clarity through testing, and to help them know what they’re dealing with, feels like a quiet but meaningful kind of service.
I also love the variety in the work. No two days are ever exactly the same, and there’s always something new to learn. Our team genuinely enjoys the problem-solving aspect of the job and the steady rhythm of lab work. We’re a group of people who care deeply about clean water and about doing things the right way.
What’s kept me here, more than anything, are the passionate coworkers and community members I get to work with on a daily basis. I’ve lived in Michigan my whole life, and I know how much people care about their lakes, rivers, and clean drinking water. I know how personal it is when someone calls about a concern with their home’s water. Being part of the team that helps answer those questions feels like contributing to the health and well-being of our community.
If you’ve ever wondered about what’s in your water or just want to better understand the quality of the water you use every day, Prein&Newhof’s Laboratory is here to help. Whether you’re testing a private well, checking your home for lead or PFAS, or managing compliance for a larger system, we’re here to walk alongside you with science, transparency, and care.
You can learn more about our lab and the services we offer at https://www.preinnewhof.com/laboratory/.
