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American Water Engages in Key Discussions at the NARUC 2026 Winter Policy Summit

American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility in the United States, is a prominent participant at the 2026 National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Winter Policy Summit in Washington, D.C. Acclaimed for its dedication to providing safe, clean, and affordable water services, the company is utilizing this platform to engage in critical discussions surrounding resilience, affordability, innovation, and reliability in the utility sector.

Key Themes and Discussions

The summit, which takes place from February 8-11, 2026, gathers an impressive assembly of industry leaders, commissioners, and regulators, all focused on the pressing issues affecting water utilities today. John Griffith, President and CEO of American Water, emphasized that the organization's priority remains the provision of reliable water services. He stated, “Our efforts are always focused on finding practical solutions that directly benefit those we serve.”

Focus on Resilience

Cheryl Norton, Executive Vice President and COO of American Water, will be addressing a panel titled "Resilience in Action: Teams Working Together When Everything Else Falls Apart." This session will examine how essential service providers partner with public officials to navigate through crises, a topic of increasing relevance in today's climate of unpredictability.

Innovations in Technology

Another significant discussion will be led by Deb Degillio, Vice President and Chief Technology and Information Officer. On the panel focusing on AI in Water, she will explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the water sector. AI's role in optimizing treatment processes, monitoring system performance, and enhancing customer engagement exemplifies the commitment of American Water to incorporate advanced technologies in their operations while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Addressing Water Loss

Justin Ladner, President of Pennsylvania American Water, will share insights during the Water Committee Business Meeting, focusing on American Water's Leak Detection Program. This initiative is crucial for reducing water loss—a significant issue in utility management—and improving service reliability through smart infrastructure solutions. Such efforts underscore the company's proactive measures in addressing infrastructure challenges and ensuring water quality.

American Water's Long-Standing Commitment

Founded in 1886, American Water’s mission continues to evolve as it adapts to new challenges and innovations in the field. With over 14 million customers served across 14 states and several military installations, their workforce of 6,700 professionals is committed to leveraging extensive expertise to maintain high standards in water and wastewater services. This engagement at the NARUC Winter Policy Summit highlights the company’s role not just as a utility service provider, but as an innovator and leader in the industry.

As conversations around infrastructure needs and workforce development take center stage, American Water aims to foster collaboration with regulators and key stakeholders to create customer-focused solutions moving forward.

For more details on the 2026 NARUC Winter Policy Summit, visit NARUC.

By participating actively in events like these, American Water exemplifies its commitment to keeping life flowing through innovative and resilient water services while prioritizing community well-being.