Thank you for purchasing the 52nd Washington Forum & Emerging Leader Meeting videos. Below is a link to each of the videos which you can access at any time. If you have any issues with accessing, please contact Diane Meyer at diane@wwema.org.
Click on each image for link to each presentation or Click Here for link to full playlist.
Keynote Speaker Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse delivered the keynote, addressing key issues such as proposed federal budget cuts to water infrastructure funding, PFAS contamination, and plastic pollution. As a leading voice on environmental policy and as minority leader of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, he emphasized the importance of sustained investment in water systems and protecting public health.
Legal Overview of Anti-Trust Laws in Today’s Business Space
This session offers a practical overview of antitrust laws and their impact and legal implications on the water and wastewater equipment manufacturing industry. Mr. Olszowka will cover key topics such as competitor interactions, pricing practices, and trade association participation, along with recent enforcement trends. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how to stay compliant and avoid common legal risks. – Presented by Paul Olszowka, Partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP
Beyond the First Quarter: Shaping the 2026 Economic Landscape
Mr. McDonald will provide a current U.S. economic update through the first quarter of 2026. Discussions will include how current situations may shape the overall economic prospects for the balance of the year as well as the U.S. short-term outlook. Finally, specific focus will include how this outlook may impact manufacturing within the water and wastewater industry. – Presented by Steven McDonald, CVA, Principal/Chief Economist, Raftelis
Bridging the Gap: National Perspectives and State Realities in Water Regulation
Mr. Grumbles will provide insights from a national perspective on key regulatory and legislative trends impacting the water and wastewater sector, and how these federal priorities are shaping state policies, compliance requirements, and infrastructure planning. – Presented by Ben Grumbles, Executive Director, Environmental Council of the States (ECOS)
Emerging Voices in Water: Showcasing Student Innovation and Future Talent
Local student science fair winners from the Federal Water Quality Association (FWQA) in partnership with WWEMA will present their award-winning projects on water quality and environmental innovation. This initiative highlights student achievement while connecting emerging talent with industry leaders and supporting the future workforce. – Presented by FWQA Science Fair Award Recipients: Clara Hoffman, Kalliope Gonos, Srikar Akundi and Jaden Ryu
How Can You Increase Your Knowledge and Engagement in Cybersecurity Working with AMWA-WaterISAC
This session will provide an overview of The WaterISAC and how WWEMA and its members may benefit from a partnership and how to strengthen their cybersecurity awareness and engagement. Attendees will learn about available tools, threat intelligence, and best practices for staying informed, improving resilience, and enhancing collaboration across the industry to address evolving cyber risks. – Presented by Tom Dobbins, CEO, Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies (AMWA); Alec Davison, Lead Risk Analyst, WaterISAC
Manufacturers’ Representatives and Market Developments in a Dynamic Water and Wastewater Market
Mr. Caringella will provide the manufacturers’ representative perspective on current market dynamics, including shifting customer demands, supply chain considerations, and competitive trends. Drawing on UFT’s experience, he will share practical insights into how representatives are adapting their strategies, strengthening relationships, and delivering value in an increasingly complex and fast-moving environment. – Presented by Scott Caringella, Chief Commercial Officer, United Flow Technologies (UFT)
Integrating Data Centers into the Water Infrastructure Landscape
As the digital economy expands, Mr. Olsavsky explores the critical role water manufacturers play in supporting the cooling and infrastructure needs of data center developments. He will examine the technical and strategic integration required to align high-stakes mission-critical facilities with sustainable water utility management. – Presented by Kevin Olsavsky, P.E., LEED AP, CDCP, Vice President & Sector Lead, Mission Critical & Data Centers, Michael Baker International
The Thirsty Machine: How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping America’s Water Future
AI was built in the image of the brain — nature’s most efficient information processor, running on 20 watts with virtually no cooling overhead. Today’s AI infrastructure is the opposite, with data centers rapidly becoming major water consumers. This isn’t a future issue. It’s a growing infrastructure and sustainability challenge now. Dr. Olds will cut through the hype to explore what AI demands from water systems, and what it can give back, ending with a challenge to act. – Presented by Dr. James L. Olds, PhD., University Professor of Neuroscience and Public Policy, George Mason University
Navigating Trade Policy Changes Amid Uncertainty
Mr. Spooner will provide a legal analysis and update on the recent Supreme Court decision impacting tariff policy. The presentation will also provide other latest developments and trends in global tariff policies and trade regulations. Key topics will include updates on trade agreements, potential tariff increases or reductions, and the implications to supply chains. – Presented by David Spooner, Partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP
State of Water and Wastewater Market
Gain insights into the current and future water and wastewater market from a capital markets and corporate finance perspective, including key trends shaping business decisions and investment. Learn how infrastructure needs, regulations, funding, and consolidation are impacting the sector and what it means for industry stakeholders. – Presented by James Adducci, Managing Director, Capstone Partners
