Her Story
About Kelli
Kelli Bentley, PSHRA-SCP, is the Human Resources Director at Anniston Water Works & Sewer Board, where she brings more than 20 years of experience in human resources within the public utility sector. Since joining the organization in 2022, she has led initiatives focused on employee relations, benefits administration, workforce development, leadership training, payroll, and risk management. Her career began in payroll before expanding into broader human resources leadership, allowing her to develop a well-rounded understanding of organizational operations and employee engagement. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management from Columbia Southern University and is currently pursuing a master's degree in the same field. She also holds the PSHRA Senior Certified Professional (PSHRA-SCP) credential along with professional certifications in payroll, risk management, and LEGO® Serious Play® facilitation.
Throughout her career, Bentley has become a recognized advocate for workforce development in the water and wastewater industry. She has played a key role in developing leadership and training programs designed to strengthen the industry's future workforce while supporting employee growth and organizational excellence. Her efforts have earned national recognition, including being named one of America's 250 Public Service Champions through the Local Gov 250 initiative in partnership with the National Academy of Public Administration. She was also selected to serve on the PSHRA Southern Region Advisory Committee, reflecting her commitment to advancing the human resources profession and contributing to the development of public sector leaders across the region.
Bentley attributes her success to a combination of grace, grit, integrity, and perseverance. She believes effective leadership is rooted in servant leadership, open communication, accountability, and consistently following through on commitments. Passionate about mentoring others, she actively supports workforce outreach initiatives that introduce younger generations to careers in the water utility industry and volunteers as a youth volleyball coach through her local Parks and Recreation Department. Guided by a strong commitment to service, professional development, and lifelong learning, Bentley continues to make a meaningful impact on her organization, her profession, and the communities she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kelli
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to grace and grit. Grace has allowed me to embrace new opportunities and continue learning, while grit has given me the resilience to persevere through challenges. Even when things become difficult, I remain committed to getting back up, continuing forward, and giving my best effort.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is: "The opportunity of a lifetime needs to be seized during the lifetime of the opportunity." That lesson has taught me to embrace opportunities, even when they come unexpectedly. Not every path unfolds exactly as planned, but being willing to step through new doors has allowed me to grow professionally and personally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't listen to the voice of imposter syndrome. Believe that you are capable, qualified, and enough. Continue pushing forward with confidence, even when you doubt yourself. Trust your abilities, embrace opportunities for growth, and never let self-doubt prevent you from pursuing your goals.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges facing our industry is the retirement of an experienced workforce and the need to attract the next generation of professionals into water and wastewater careers. This also presents a tremendous opportunity to expand workforce development through partnerships with career centers, educational institutions, apprenticeship programs, and community organizations. By increasing awareness of the rewarding career opportunities available, we can build a strong pipeline of future leaders for this essential industry.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is the foundation of everything I do. When I make a commitment, I believe in following through and being accountable. I also value honest communication, reliability, and building trust through consistent actions. These principles guide both my professional leadership and my personal relationships.
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