Last week, AMWA announced the unanimous selection of Dan Hartnett as its CEO effective November 1, 2026. Sterling Martin, a ZRG Company, was proud to partner with AMWA on the search.

AMWA Board President and Prince William Water General Manager and CEO Calvin Farr, Jr. made the announcement at the beginning of AMWA’s 2026 Executive Management Conference in Seattle. Following a nationwide search, AMWA’s Board of Directors selected Hartnett for the role during its October 25 meeting.

“Since assuming the role of Interim CEO in July, Dan has provided thoughtful leadership, maintained strong momentum across the association’s programs and priorities, and demonstrated a deep commitment to serving our members and subscribers,” said Farr. “Dan’s experience on Capitol Hill, extensive knowledge of federal water policy, and longstanding relationships throughout the water sector have made him a trusted leader among his team, peers, and membership.”

“It is an honor to be selected to serve as AMWA’s next CEO,” said Hartnett. “In my nearly 20 years with AMWA, I have had the privilege to work with countless dedicated volunteers, members, and colleagues to advance the association’s mission as the voice of the nation’s largest publicly owned drinking water systems. I am eager to enhance these efforts in the months and years ahead. I want to thank the Board of Directors for the confidence they have placed in me, and to AMWA’s staff for their consistent support.”

Since joining AMWA in 2007 as a Legislative Assistant, Hartnett has served in several leadership roles, including Manager of Legislative Affairs, Director of Legislative Affairs, Chief Advocacy Officer, Chief Policy Officer, and Interim CEO. Prior to joining AMWA, he worked on Capitol Hill as a staffer to former Representative Rob Simmons of Connecticut, bringing a strong legislative background to the water sector.

As CEO, Hartnett oversees all aspects of executive leadership across AMWA’s operations, programs, and policy initiatives. AMWA’s staff will continue advancing the association’s mission and delivering high‑value resources and support to its members.