American Water Joins 2026 NARUC Winter Policy Summit

Utility company to discuss resilience, affordability, innovation and reliability in water services.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., is participating in the 2026 National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Winter Policy Summit in Washington, D.C. The company's executives will speak on panels addressing resilience, artificial intelligence in water, and leak detection programs.

Why it matters

As a major water utility, American Water's participation in the NARUC summit highlights its role in addressing critical infrastructure needs, protecting water quality, and supporting workforce development in the water sector. The company's engagement with regulators and stakeholders helps advance innovative, customer-focused solutions.

The details

At the summit, Cheryl Norton, American Water's Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, will participate in a panel on resilience and how essential service providers collaborate with public officials during crises. Deb Degillio, the company's Vice President and Chief Technology and Information Officer, will speak on a panel about how artificial intelligence is transforming the water sector. Justin Ladner, President of Pennsylvania American Water, will discuss the company's Leak Detection Program and its impact on reducing water loss and improving service reliability.

  • The 2026 NARUC Winter Policy Summit is being held from February 8 to February 11, 2026 in Washington, D.C.

The players

American Water

The largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, with a history dating back to 1886 and operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations.

John Griffith

President and Chief Executive Officer of American Water.

Cheryl Norton

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of American Water.

Deb Degillio

Vice President and Chief Technology and Information Officer of American Water.

Justin Ladner

President of Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water.

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What they’re saying

“At American Water, our priority is providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to our customers.”

— John Griffith, President and Chief Executive Officer, American Water (PRNewswire)

What’s next

The 2026 NARUC Winter Policy Summit will continue through February 11, 2026, providing a platform for American Water and other industry leaders to engage in discussions on the future of water services.

The takeaway

American Water's participation in the NARUC summit underscores its commitment to addressing critical water infrastructure challenges, leveraging technology to enhance customer experience, and collaborating with regulators and stakeholders to develop innovative, customer-focused solutions.