Q&A: Take a peek at AWWA ACE25
American Water Works Association Annual Conference and Exhibition (AWWA ACE) kicks off in Denver Sunday, June 8 through June 11. WaterWorld connected with AWWA CEO David LaFrance on this year's event to learn what's new, what attendees can expect to take away from their time attending, and the absolute must-see moments at the show.
What is this year’s theme, and why is it so critical for the water industry at large?
This year’s theme for ACE25 is "Elevate." Our theme – especially fitting here in Denver, the Mile High City – challenges every water professional to raise the bar in every facet of water management. The conference will explore how water professionals can elevate drinking water quality, excellence on the job, and their positive impact on the communities they serve. It’s about taking proactive steps to improve our sector as we address critical issues like aging infrastructure, climate variability, and building public trust.
What topics and expertise do you anticipate will lead conversations through the entirety of AWWA ACE 25? Why do you think that is?
We just released our annual State of the Water Industry report, which revealed the most pressing concerns among water professionals right now. Those top challenges include financing capital improvements, aging infrastructure and long-term water supply, among others. The ACE25 educational program – featuring 22 professional tracks and 147 technical sessions – is curated to equip attendees with insights and solutions to the challenges they care about most.
Our Water 2050 initiative will also frame many discussions at ACE, focused on our strategic priority areas: Finance & Affordability, Equity, Access, & Community Engagement, Sustainability & Resilience, One Water Governance, and Innovation and Circular Economy. Water 2050 is about envisioning the water future we want and taking the steps necessary to get there.
What’s new this year compared to last year?
Every ACE builds on the last, but this year in Denver, we have some notable new elements. Our keynote speaker, Kathryn Sorensen, a water policy leader and former director for Phoenix and Mesa Water Services, is exactly the right voice for this moment in water. She's an inspirational speaker whose distinguished career in utility leadership and water policy research has truly elevated our sector. She will set the perfect tone for ACE25. Additionally, our Water 2050 initiative is prominently integrated into our educational program, with dedicated roundtable sessions and presentations tied to our strategic priorities.
Our educational program reflects our Denver location with a special focus on Water in the West. We'll explore practical solutions for regional challenges like drought, climate-induced water scarcity, and infrastructure needs for growing populations.
Also, the Future of Water programming is especially robust this year, with discussion on strategies for funding, treatment, storage, distribution, and management to improve climate resilience and long-term sustainability.
ACE25 will also feature a comprehensive sustainability initiative woven throughout the conference experience, reflecting AWWA's commitment to minimizing the event's environmental impact and encouraging sustainable practices across the sector.
Assume you are a first-time attendee. What is one thing to do each day that you would recommend?
That’s a tough question. I think everyone is different and everyone will find many meaningful opportunities. There are some things that I think will appeal to most everyone.
First, I'd recommend downloading the new AWWA ACE Events mobile app before you arrive. It’s a very helpful tool for navigating the conference – you can plan your week, explore maps, exhibitors, and session details, and even connect directly with other attendees
Monday: Begin by attending the Opening General Session. Kathryn Sorensen's keynote will set the tone for the entire conference. And immediately after that, the exhibit hall opens and it will be a great time to feel the energy of the whole show.
Tuesday: Make sure to join one of the Water 2050 roundtable discussions and help shape the future alongside sector leaders. We need people who can help the water sector move from strategizing to implementing.
Wednesday: Focus on networking. Engaging with peers and leaders at social events or in the exhibit hall. Don't miss the finals for the Pipe Tapping and Hydrant Hysteria competitions!
By the end of the show, what do you hope every attendee has left with?
By the time ACE25 concludes, I hope every attendee has left with new knowledge, new friends, and new experiences. For water utilities professionals, I hope their eyes are opened to new solutions to their most difficult challenges. That’s the great thing about ACE. Someone there has almost inevitably faced a similar issue. And for hundreds of incredible technology providers, my hope is that they establish lasting relationships with future customers. There’s no better place than ACE to do that.