WASHINGTON, DC, March 4, 2014 -- Attendees of the Water and Wastewater Equipment Manufacturers Association's (WWEMA) 41st Washington Forum -- held on April 15-17 at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. -- will receive an inside track on "New Opportunities in the Current Regulatory and Legislative Framework."
Top decision makers from every area of the industry will share their insights to help manufacturers and their representatives understand how best to position their companies for success in an ever-changing market environment. In addition to the educational program, the conference provides numerous opportunities for networking and informal idea-sharing. The sessions will include:
Municipal Market Outlook
Three utility executives will share how their organizations are "Changing the Way Business is Done," with a focus on innovations in technologies; funding programs; and water, wastewater and stormwater runoff management systems. Panelists will include Leonard Gipson, Philadelphia Water Department; George Hawkins, DC Water; and Paul Gagliardo, American Water.
Impacts on Current and Future Markets
A diverse group of federal, state, industrial, and private sector speakers will discuss key "hot topics" affecting current and future markets, including "Buy American," Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) technology clusters, hydraulic fracturing, new pump efficiency requirements, and more.
Construction Industry Outlook
Ken Simonson, chief economist for the Associated General Contractors of America, will examine the economic indicators for construction in general and water projects in particular.
EPA Regulatory Update
EPA DirectorsAndrew Sawyers, Office of Wastewater Management; Peter Grevatt, Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water; and Elizabeth Southerland, Office of Science and Technology, will share their departments' priorities for 2014 and beyond.
Congressional/Advocacy Update
Several of the industries' top players will share the very latest news and information regarding legislative initiatives that could prove to be game changers for the water industry, including the proposed Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Authority (WIFIA) and efforts within Congress to remove volume caps for tax-exempt private activity bonds for water and wastewater infrastructure. Panelists will include Tom Curtis, American Water Works Association; Bruce Morgan, Water Policy Associates; and Ben Grumbles, U.S. Water Alliance (invited).
Expanding International Markets
Three top trade executives will discuss programs aimed at helping U.S. companies increase exports and business overseas. Panelists will include Maureen Hinman, International Trade Administration; Craig O'Connor, Export-Import Bank of the United States; and Nathan Younge, U.S. Trade and Development Agency.
About WWEMA
Since 1908, WWEMA has informed, educated and provided leadership on the issues that shape the future of the water and wastewater industry. Its member companies supply the most sophisticated leading products and technology, offering solutions to every water-related environmental problem and need facing today’s society. For more information, visit www.wwema.org.
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