While both the award itself and this note are long overdue, WaterISAC wishes to recognize Eric Hatcher, Senior Emergency Preparedness Specialist at AECOM, the first ever recipient of its Splash Award. This award is given to a person who has demonstrated leadership and dedication to securing the water and wastewater sector.

Eric received the Splash Award during WaterISAC’s recent H2OSecCon, at the conclusion of the first day’s sessions that focused on physical security and natural disaster resilience. He had just participated in the session before the award was announced, titled “Lessons Learned and Best Practices Responding to Natural Disasters and Climate Change.” Participating in the panel was very characteristic of Eric, who over the years has contributed tremendously to WaterISAC and to the entire water and wastewater sector. In 2019, he spoke about his experiences as Security and Emergency Manager for Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) in North Carolina, including during the response to Hurricane Florence that registered a direct hit on the area. He also engaged proactively with WaterISAC during early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, dedicating his time and sharing resources to help inform utilities’ responses to a new and complex challenge. There are also countless times Eric has worked with WaterISAC staff to communicate sector issues and effective security strategies and measures. Eric retired from CFPUA earlier this year, but WaterISAC is thankful he’s continuing to serve the sector through his work at AECOM. Thank you for all you do, Eric! Congratulations!

For a picture of Eric with the award, view WaterISAC's posting on LinkedIn.