Students of the old school, cover your eyes. We’ve seen the future of the water industry, and it’s a techie.
Well, increasingly so, at least. According to the 2015 U.S. Water Industry Outlook published by WeiserMazars LLP, an accounting, tax and advisory services firm, the water industry views technology and innovation as the means to address the industry’s biggest challenges.
Almost 80% of respondents, which included industry leaders in public and private water systems, industry investors and suppliers, and government regulators, agreed that technology will play a key role in competition in the water industry over the next 10 years. Energy efficiency, smart metering/business intelligence and asset management programs stood out as particularly important to increase performance metrics.
In celebration of all things advanced, the November issue of W&WD features some less-than-ordinary application stories, including Internet-of-Things networking of smart sensors and devices for remote monitoring and management of large-scale leak detection and turbo-charging intake filtration for high-speed turbo blowers.
The WeiserMazars survey also found a favorable outlook for infrastructure financing, noting that funding is more readily available and accessible.
Speaking of funding, W&WD is partnering with SplashLink.com, where buyers and sellers find funding, projects and solution providers. The online resource features daily postings of grants, loans and other funding opportunities.
And speaking of online resources, did you know that W&WD’s parent company launched an online magazine, Smart & Resilient Cities (www.smartresilient.com), earlier this year?
Rollouts like these indicate that we align with what the industry considers to be top of mind for its constituents. We want to be at the forefront of the industry’s every need.
But technology or trends alone will not carry us through our industry’s biggest challenges. We’re counting on the next wave of young professionals to both innovate and operate the next big things in water. Look out for a call for nominations in the coming weeks for our May 2016 Special Section on Young Professionals. We look forward to introducing you to the next batch of bright young minds.
And now to close this letter on a note of humility: Given that Thanksgiving is upon us, I want to thank you, the readers, for being a constant inspiration for all of our endeavors here at W&WD. Without you, our efforts would not be possible. Have a great November!
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