After retiring from Pacific Energy last week, Taulapapa Will Sword started Monday as the Chief Engineer at the American Samoa Power Authority.
Taulapapa spent 37 years working for the main fuel supplier in the territory and retired as Country Manager Chief Engineer for Pacific Energy.
He said it has been a challenging career, but is proud with the progress that has been made during his tenure.
“We removed all the old Navy tanks that were leaking and replaced them all,” he said. “Our terminal here is the best in the Pacific. Our training program is very successful and there have been no major incidents.”
Taulapapa emphasized the importance of the petroleum supply for the territory. “Without petroleum the cannery can’t operate, ASPA cannot function, and our food and water supply will be affected.”
Taulapapa says he will help ASPA with improvements to the water supply. It’s a role that he held before when he was head of the Water Division while water and electricity were under Public Works. Later water and waste water were transferred to ASPA after it was established as a semi autonomous authority.
“We had to do it because the government budget process was terrible for utilities. You couldn’t get things done quickly with the regular budgetary process,” he reminisced.
“Whereas under ASPA, procurement moved much more quickly.”
Taulapapa held the distinction of being one of the youngest directors when he was made a cabinet member. He was 29 when appointed as Director of Public Works.
He obtained his Bachelors in Engineering from Notre Dame at the age of 20, and acquired his Masters in Engineering from Oregon State. He is a certified tank inspector and a professional land surveyor. He is currently Chairman of the Western Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Council, Chairman of the Republican Party of American Samoa and Vice Chairman of the Board of the Shipyard Services Authority.
