Awards

Our progressive series of awards recognizes exceptional management and outstanding workforce performance. 

2026 Awards Program

AMWA 's 2026 Awards Program launched on January 29, 2026, and will close on July 3, 2026. All primary member contacts received an email notifying them of their utility's eligibility level. For questions about the appropriate application category, please email [email protected].

Each utility is judged individually against the criteria in the appropriate application form. Any number of AMWA member utilities may win the award; however, applying does not guarantee an award. Each application will have a score of pass or fail based on the panel reviews. AMWA will send emails to all applicants informing them of their award status in the first week of September 2026. 

The Gold Award for Exceptional Utility Performance is based on the Ten Attributes of Effectively Managed Water Sector Utilities and the Keys to Management Success (EUM). 

The Platinum Award for Utility Excellence is the next tier in AMWA's awards program. The Platinum Award is also based on the Ten Attributes of Effectively Managed Water Sector Utilities and the Keys to Management Success and should show progress from the Gold Award.

The Sustainable Water Utility Management Award recognizes AMWA members committed to sustainable management. It is the third step in AMWA’s awards program, following the Gold and Platinum Awards. 

Environmental Justice and Equity Award

As the most recent addition to AMWA’s award program in 2023, the independent Environmental Justice and Equity Award recognizes member utilities that commit to advancing equity and justice in their communities. The general criteria include: using assessment and planning, equity in access and costs, civic involvement in decision-making, and integrative strategies.

2026 Executive Management Conference Ceremony

AMWA will honor all award winners at its 2026 Executive Management Conference in Seattle, Washington, October 25-28.

How to Get Recognized: A Guide to AMWA's Awards Program Webinar

Members can access the 2025 webinar How to Get Recognized: A Guide to AMWA’s Awards Program to learn more about navigating the application, submission, and peer review processes. During the webinar, Awards Subcommittee Chair Robert Cheng, Assistant General Manager of Coachella Valley Water District, guided potential applicants in identifying their utility’s strengths, uncovering opportunities, and crafting a strong submission. 

Donald R. Boyd and President's Awards

Through the Donald R. Boyd Award, AMWA acknowledges extraordinary personal service in the drinking water field. General criteria may include valuable service advancing public understanding and awareness, water quality research, or more general contributions deserving of recognition.

AMWA presents its President’s Award to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to improving water supply management.

For more information about the awards program or 2026 eligibility, please contact Antoinette Barber.