AWWA’s ACE26 convenes thousands of water professionals, celebrates water heroes

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) opened its Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE26) today at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington D.C., bringing together more than 10,000 water professionals to share ideas, explore solutions and celebrate the people who keep safe water flowing in communities around the world.

Centered around the theme “Water Heroes,” ACE26 brings together utility leaders, operators, engineers, scientists, communicators, manufacturers, consultants and other water professionals to share knowledge, explore solutions and strengthen the systems communities rely on every day.

During today’s Opening General Session, award-winning journalist and best-selling author Charles Fishman delivered the keynote address, urging attendees to help the public better understand the essential work behind reliable water service. Fishman, whose books include “The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water” and “One Giant Leap: The Impossible Mission That Flew Us to the Moon,” connected the conference theme to the skill, commitment and often unseen work of water professionals.

“The real heroes of Apollo, in my mind, weren’t the astronauts,” Fishman said in his keynote address. “The real heroes were the 400,000 people back on Earth who made it happen.”

“Water is having a moon moment right now, and we need to rise to that moment,” he said. “Water makes the future possible, and you all are what make water possible. You are the water heroes.”

AWWA President Heather Collins welcomed attendees to ACE and recognized the commitment and everyday heroism of water professionals across the sector.

“People don’t think about it when they turn on the tap, when they’re filling the dog bowl, watering the lawn, operating hospitals, sending kids to school; they don’t think about the people behind the service that provides that daily opportunity,” said Collins. “Part of AWWA’s role is to make the value of water — and the people behind the water — seen, understood, and appreciated.”

Through June 24, the conference features more than 440 presenters across 20 tracks, including 205 educational sessions and 16 Innovation Hub sessions. The exposition also showcases the latest technologies, equipment and services from more than 450 exhibitors.

To learn more about the conference agenda and registration, visit the ACE26 webpage.

Media note: Accredited members of the media may attend ACE26 at no charge. However, they are required to register with AWWA Communications. For media registration, please visit the AWWA Press Room in Room 304 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center or contact Megan McDowell at 920-493-0532.

# # #

Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most vital resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.