The National Assn. of Water Companies (NAWC) announced that Eric W. Thornburg, president and CEO of Connecticut Water, was selected by his industry peers as president of the association, which recently marked its 113th year.
Thornburg, who was chosen to lead Connecticut Water Service Inc. in 2006, after a 23-year career with American Water, assumes the NAWC presidency from Charles V. Firlotte, president and CEO of Aquarion Water Co.
“It is an honor and privilege to serve the association, whose members are among the leading public service organizations across the country,” said Thornburg. “Quality water service provides for the health and safety of our families and the economic prosperity of our communities. It truly does touch everything we care about. As the trusted voice of the private water industry, NAWC will work to serve our citizens and partner with local, state and federal officials and members of the media to tell this important story of the value of water.“
NAWC Executive Director Michael Deane had the opportunity to work with Thornburg when both participated with various stakeholders in the Aspen Institute’s Dialogue on Sustainable Water Infrastructure in May 2009.
“Eric Thornburg, whose father and grandfather served in the water industry, exemplifies our industry’s commitment to service, building trust, transparency and increased accountability,” said Deane. “Drinking water and wastewater systems face challenges in the years ahead, so our nation’s water leaders must be able to innovate, as well as inspire, and I’m confident Eric will lead us to do both.”
Thornburg leads all aspects of Connecticut Water, which serves over 300,000 customers in 55 towns across the state. Headquartered in Clinton, Conn., Connecticut Water is a publicly-traded organization with over 8.5 million shares outstanding. Since assuming leadership, Thornburg and his team have grown significantly, resulting in Forbes Magazine naming it one of America’s 100 Fastest Growing Small Companies.
Thornburg holds an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University and a bachelor’s from Cornell University. He serves on several community boards, including the Madison Board of Police Commissioners, Middlesex Hospital Corp. and the Connecticut Business and Industry Assn.
Source: National Assn. of Water Companies
