American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., contributed expertise to key discussions at the Mid-America Regulatory Conference (MARC) 2026 held June 7-10, 2026 in Madison, Wis. Company leaders joined regulators, utility executives and industry experts to explore pressing issues facing the water and wastewater sector, including balancing reliability, affordability and environmental responsibility. The conference also focused on strengthening collaboration across critical infrastructure sectors to support growing communities.

"Water utilities today are balancing a growing number of challenges, from infrastructure investment and affordability to resilience and regulatory compliance," said Cheryl Norton, EVP and Chief Operating Officer of American Water. "These conversations are critical to helping utilities, regulators and other stakeholders identify practical solutions that strengthen water and wastewater systems to help ensure customers continue to receive safe, clean, reliable and affordable service."

Rebecca Losli, President of Illinois American Water, participated in the panel discussion "Every Drop Counts: Balancing Water Reliability, Affordability, Safety and Environmental Responsibility." This session explored the complex challenges utilities and regulators face in maintaining safe, reliable and affordable water and wastewater service while addressing aging infrastructure, evolving environmental regulators, cybersecurity threats and other emerging risks. Losli and the other panelists discussed practical strategies for helping to ensure water and wastewater systems remain resilient while continuing to meet rigorous quality standards and customer expectations.

Brad Nielsen, President of Iowa American Water, participated in the "Midwestern Nice: Air, Water and Energy Collaboration on Large Load Impacts" panel. The discussion focused on the growing need for coordination among the water, energy and environmental sector as communities experience increased demand from large-scale economic development and industrial projects. Panelists examined approaches for evaluating infrastructure impacts, sharing data and supporting sustainable growth while maintaining reliable service.

Key Conference Discussions

American Water continues to help communities prepare for the future by investing in resilient infrastructure and advancing solutions that protect public health and safety. Through its involvement in MARC, the company continues to collaborate with regulators and key stakeholders to address today's challenges and build stronger systems for tomorrow.

New Jersey American Water has appointed David Forcinito as Vice President of Operations, placing him in charge of statewide water production, wastewater collection, and field services for 3 million customers across 18 counties. Forcinito succeeds Ben Morris, who is transitioning to the role of Vice President of Operations for Strategic Programs at American Water. The leadership change aims to leverage Forcinito's decades of experience with the utility to ensure operational continuity.

Forcinito brings over 35 years of tenure with New Jersey American Water, having started his career as a project engineer. He previously held roles including Operations Superintendent, Maintenance Manager, and Senior Director of South Operations before becoming Vice President of Fleet for American Water in June 2024. He rejoined New Jersey American Water in April.

Operational Scope

In his new position, Forcinito is responsible for the utility's core functions across the state. His oversight includes:

• Water production
• Wastewater collection
• Field services

Professional Background

Forcinito holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Widener University and a Master of Science in water resources and environmental engineering from Villanova University. He is a registered Professional Engineer in New Jersey and holds state operator licenses for T, W, S, and C classifications. He is an active member of the American Water Works Association, the Water Environment Federation, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest regulated water utility in the state. The company employs approximately 875 people dedicated to providing water and wastewater services.