The future of water is built through collaboration, and one of the largest annual gatherings of water professionals in the nation was a powerful reminder of what's possible when our industry comes together.

Over three days, more than 80 DC Water employees joined thousands of water professionals in Washington, DC, where we served as the host utility for the American Water Works Association’s Annual Conference & Exposition (ACE26). We exchanged ideas, shared best practices, and explored solutions that strengthen the water sector.

DC Water had a strong presence throughout the conference, with more than 25 employees serving as presenters, moderators, and panelists across more than 20 sessions. They shared expertise on key priorities such as Pure Water DC – our plan to strengthen and diversify the District’s drinking water supply including advanced water recycling – and Lead Free DC (LFDC), our effort to replace every lead service line in the city. In addition, Team Blue highlighted our work in community engagement and public trust, social media and digital communications, and the use of AI and emerging technologies to improve operations and customer service. Together we strengthened partnerships and exchanged ideas with peers from across the industry.

During the conference, our leadership was also recognized among the industry’s best.  LFDC received the Lead Service Line Replacement Collaborative’s Outstanding Leadership in Lead Service Line Replacement award, acknowledging the collective effort behind one of the District’s most significant public health initiatives. We were excited as well to see DC Water’s apprentices honored during the AWWA apprentice pinning ceremony, celebrating the next generation of water professionals.

Beyond the presentations, ACE26 created opportunities for us to learn from others. Conversations with a delegation from Tokyo Water reinforced the value of international collaboration and exchanging ideas that help utilities better serve their communities.
As the hometown utility, DC Water proudly kept attendees hydrated with water refill stations, welcoming visitors from across the industry to the nation’s capital.

Thank you to everyone who represented DC Water at ACE26 and showcased the innovation, collaboration and dedication that defines Team Blue. We look forward to building on these conversations and partnerships as we continue to shape the future of water.