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More than 2,400 water professionals and 317 exhibitors gathered in Lexington July 19-22 for the 2026 Water Professionals Conference (WPC). From industry milestones and emerging leaders to friendly competitions and community outreach, this year’s conference showcased the people, partnerships, and innovation driving the water sector forward.
“WPC 2026 was an incredible success, with record-breaking participation from both attendees and exhibitors,” said Megan Talley, 2025-2026 KY/TN AWWA Chair and Louisville Water’s Metering Field Operations Manager. “It was inspiring to see so many water professionals come together to learn, connect, and support our industry.”
1. Water for Life Brings Water Education to the Community
The conference kicked off Sunday with Water for Life, a free community event hosted by the Young Professionals Committee at Gatton Park.
More than 60 people attended the event, which featured water-focused activities, games, and a free Zumba class led by Thalika Hollingsworth of American Water.
“Water for Life is back!” said Young Professionals Co-Chair Cody Phillips, who praised the turnout and community engagement.
The event served as a reminder that the water profession extends beyond treatment plants and pipelines — it starts with connecting people to the value of high-quality, reliable water.
2. A Historic Moment for Kentucky/Tennessee Water Professionals
Monday’s opening session marked a milestone for the Kentucky/Tennessee Section as Brent Tippey was sworn in as AWWA President, becoming the first representative from the section to hold the position in more than 50 years and only the third in its history.
Attendees also reflected on the deep roots of the section, which traces back to AWWA’s founding in 1881. Kentucky and Tennessee were among the association’s founding states, reinforcing the region’s longstanding influence on the water industry.
The session also highlighted challenges facing utilities nationwide. According to AWWA’s State of the Water Industry findings shared during the conference, only about 40% of water utilities report having sufficient resources to fully fund their infrastructure needs. Speakers also discussed workforce trends including declining employee tenure and training hours across the profession. The retirements expected in the next few years reinforced the importance of our next generation.
3. Leadership and Professional Development Take Center Stage
And those future leaders were on display throughout the conference.
Louisville Water Customer Service Supervisor Alicia Overall graduated from the Water Professionals Leadership Academy (WPLA), while Communications Strategist Hayley Robb Price was recognized as a member of the incoming WPLA class.
During Tippey’s remarks, he asked attendees to stand based on their conference experience — from first-time attendees to professionals who have attended more than 10 conferences. The moment highlighted one of WPC’s greatest strengths: creating opportunities for mentorship, networking, and professional growth.
“My first water conference was fun, educational, and inspiring,” said Chris Harris, Operations Supervisor, and a first-time attendee at this year’s conference. “I was proud to represent Louisville Water, connect with so many great people, and learn from others across our industry. Most importantly, I left with a renewed appreciation that the greatest resource in our industry isn’t just water — it’s the people who make a difference every day.”
4. Friendly Competition Showcases Industry Pride
Conference attendees had plenty of opportunities to put their skills — and their water — on display.
The annual water taste test crowned Glasgow Water Company as the winner, while Duck River Utility Commission earned the People’s Choice Award based on votes collected during Sunday’s Water for Life event.
Louisville Water also brought home some bragging rights. The Lady Legends captured first place in the women’s tapping competition with an impressive time of 4:18.
“We’re going to San Diego,” the Lady Legends cheered after the win.
Whether testing water quality or demonstrating field skills, the competitions showcased the expertise and pride water professionals bring to their work every day.
5. Sharing Knowledge Across the Industry
While networking and competitions are an important part of WPC, the conference’s greatest impact happens in its technical sessions. Throughout the week, water professionals shared lessons learned, innovative approaches, and practical solutions that attendees can take back to their utilities and communities.
Sessions covered a wide range of topics, including infrastructure, workforce development, operations, customer service, emerging technology, and utility management. The sessions also provided valuable continuing education opportunities for water professionals seeking to maintain certifications and stay informed on industry trends.
Louisville Water was well represented, with nearly ten employees serving as presenters during the conference. Their presentations covered topics ranging from complex communications strategies and customer engagement to emerging issues such as pricing water for data centers and planning for future growth.
These sessions reflect one of the conference’s core values: water professionals helping other water professionals solve challenges, improve operations, and better serve their communities.
6. Recognizing Excellence Across the Industry
The conference also recognized individuals and organizations making a difference in the water sector.
Awards presented during the second day of WPC included the Operational Excellence Awards, Customer Service Award, Lifetime Member Award, Gold Water Drop Award, and Silver Water Drop Award.
The conference also celebrated future industry leaders through scholarship opportunities. George Fordjour, a student at the University of Kentucky, was named the recipient of Louisville Water’s Rengao Song Scholarship.
These recognitions underscored a common theme throughout the week: investing in people remains one of the most important priorities for the future of the water profession.
