2025 Fall Conference Recap

The 2025 Fall Conference in Fort Wayne was an outstanding success, bringing together water and wastewater professionals from across Indiana for three days of high-quality training, collaboration, and industry engagement.

Attendees participated in a comprehensive lineup of technical sessions and concurrent training tracks, earning valuable continuing education units while connecting with expert instructors and peers. This year’s program offered something for everyone—from foundational operator training to advanced discussions on emerging technologies, evolving policies, and recent legislative updates.

Interactive roundtable sessions encouraged open dialogue between Alliance staff, utility representatives, associate members, and government partners, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that drives Indiana’s rural water community forward.

One of the most popular additions this year was the Camp Scott Wetlands Tour, which filled almost instantly. It joined the always well-attended Fort Wayne Water Filtration and Pollution Control Plant Tours, giving attendees an inside look at innovative systems in action.

Throughout the week, the Exhibit Hall served as a vibrant hub for learning and connection. Attendees explored new technologies, participated in the WaterPAC Raffle and Behind the Flow Photo Contest, and enjoyed networking during the Exhibitor Reception and Hospitality Event. More than 40 prizes were won throughout the conference through gamification challenges, the WaterPAC Raffle, Rural Water Family Feud, Exhibit Hall Bingo, and random giveaways, adding plenty of fun to the mix.

Award and Contest Highlights

Gene and Sharon Eaton Rural Excellence Award:

• Recipient: Roger Green — recognized for his exceptional dedication and excellence in service to Indiana’s rural communities.

Note Worthy Prize Winners

• WaterPAC Raffle Grand Prize - Colts Experience: Vincent Simmers
• Shotgun Raffle Winner: Casey Warner

Behind the Flow Photo Contest Winners:

• Rural Indiana Water: Anthony Newcomer – Akron, Indiana
• Indiana Water Infrastructure: Corey Liming – Dubois, Indiana
• Utility Operators in Action: Mary Cripe – Middlebury, Indiana
• AIRW Staff Category: Donald Papai

Special recognition goes to Hammond Water Works, winner of the 2025 Best Tasting Water in Indiana competition. Hammond will proudly represent our state at the Great American Water Taste Test in Washington, D.C., next February.

Leadership Announcements

The conference also marked several exciting leadership updates within the Alliance.

Bryce Black was elected to the AIRW Utility Board and will officially begin his term on January 1, 2026. Additionally, Tom Speer and Jackie Hilgartner were re-elected and will continue to serve on the board for another term.

Andy Sucharitakul of Lochmueller Group and Audi Findley of Waterly, Inc. were also elected to represent Associate members on the Advisory Council.  The standing council also appointed Brandon Butrum with Layne Christensen to fill a vacancy.

Appreciation

The Alliance extends its sincere gratitude to all sponsors, presenters, exhibitors, and attendees who made this event possible. From the Pre-Conference Hospitality Event hosted by Carson Law to the final training sessions on Thursday afternoon, your participation and support continue to make the Fall Conference one of Indiana’s premier training and networking events for the water and wastewater community.