AI in Water: What's Real, What's Risky, and What's Next
SewerAI's Eric Sullivan joined a panel of water industry experts to cut through the AI hype — exploring what's actually being used in the water sector today, where it delivers real value, and where caution is warranted.
On May 5, 2026, the AWWA/CWP Young Professionals Committee hosted a one-hour webinar titled 'AI in Water: What's Real, What's Risky, and What's Next.' SewerAI's Eric Sullivan joined a distinguished panel to offer a grounded, practical perspective on AI adoption in the water sector.
About the webinar
Artificial intelligence is rapidly making its way into the water sector — but not all tools, claims, or use cases are created equal. This webinar explored what AI is actually being used for in the water industry today, where it provides real value, and where caution is warranted. Panelists discussed practical applications, potential risks, ethical considerations, and what the future of AI may look like for utilities, consultants, and industry professionals. The session was designed for professionals at all career stages and aimed to cut through the hype with a realistic, balanced perspective.
Meet the panelists
- Eric Sullivan, Director of Strategic Development at SewerAI: nearly two decades of underground infrastructure experience, NASSCO-certified PACP/LACP/MACP Trainer, focused on real-world AI implementation for inspection, QA/QC, and asset management.
- Sarah Sweat, GIS Project Manager at LJA Engineering: 12+ years in environmental sciences and hydrology, uses AI to enhance GIS workflows and co-authors peer-reviewed publications on spatial analyses.
- John Fox, Director of Public Utilities, Town of Collierville, TN: 25+ years in public service and infrastructure, former TCAPWA State President, integrates AI into municipal operations and policy development.
- Adam Byard, Jacobs South Region Technology Lead: 20+ years in design and rehabilitation, serves on the Dragonfly AI condition assessment tool team.
- Mackenzie Martin, P.E., Project Engineer at Barge Design Solutions: co-chair of the Young Professionals Committee, uses AI for data interpretation, workflow efficiency, and technical communication.
- Moderator: Mark McKinney, Director of the Water Solutions Center at Barge Design Solutions.
Watch the recording
Missed the live session? The full recording is now available on demand. Click below to watch.
