Congratulations 2025 Drinking Water Week Award Winners!
We celebrate National Drinking Water Week annually during the first full week of May, this year it's May 4-10. We recognize individual water systems and operators that do an outstanding job providing safe and reliable drinking water to their customers. Award winners are nominated by their peers, customers, stakeholders, or others in the industry.
If you didn't tell us their stories, we wouldn't know about their amazing efforts. We're grateful to all who were nominated and wish we could give awards to each person. It is a privilege to present this year's winners!
Governor's Proclamation
Every year the Governor signs a proclamation announcing Drinking Water Week in Washington. Read the proclamation here.
Without further ado, here are our winners!
Commitment to Excellence
Jeff Tasoff, Principal of Civil Engineering, Facet NW Engineering. Jeff collaborates with local government and community leaders to ensure that infrastructure projects are not only effective but aligned with community needs and priorities. Jeff is a member of Whidbey Island Water System Association’s board and is a resource for multiple small water systems on the island. He helps them address failing infrastructure, future planning improvements, and offers advice on complex challenges. He mentors young professionals and has made a profound difference in the area. He exemplifies the spirit of innovation, compassion, and excellence.
Grace Under Pressure
Jason Knisley, Water and Sewer Lead, City of Chewelah. Since joining the City of Chewelah’s Public Works Department in 2017, Jason consistently demonstrates outstanding dedication, leadership, and expertise in water distribution. He is recognized for his extensive knowledge of water systems and his unwavering commitment to water quality. He approaches every project with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that all work is up to specifications and thoroughly documented. Jason’s calm demeanor, kindness, and willingness to mentor new team members have made him an invaluable asset. His ability to stay composed under pressure and his passion for teaching reflect a true leader who inspires those around him.
City of Vancouver Water Department Team. Tim Higgins, Mehrin Selimgir, Mike Steuben, Jim Lewis, Nathan Copewin, Rob Weber, Patrick Craney, Brian Wilson, Topher Gates, and Kristi Lucht. The City of Vancouver discovered PFAS in their water in 2020 and started sampling and tracking the contamination to build data and provide information to their customers. They were proactive in dealing with this challenge and through the construction of a new treatment system and development of a management plan, the city drinking water will be PFAS-free by 2031. They also share their knowledge and experience with other Southwest Washington drinking water systems, including larger systems and other industry organizations to train and help develop cross-connection control programs.
Lifetime Achievement
Heather Pennington, Tacoma Water Interim Superintendent. Heather has been a dedicated drinking water professional for over thirty years. At one time she was the highest ranking female with Tacoma Public Utilities. She has served on multiple local, state, and national committees and boards with the drinking water industry. These include Pacific Northwest Section of the American Water Works Association, Washington Water Utility Council, Water Research Foundation Collaborative Utility Benchmarking, West Coast Regional Benchmarking Group, Partnership for Water Conservation, and the Washington Water Resources Advisory Committee. She initiated many programs that are now best practices and industry-wide standards. Heather consistently goes above and beyond serving, collaborating with, and mentoring others.
Mike Pendergraft, Evergreen Rural Water of Washington (Retired). Mike has been a dedicated water industry professional since serving with the City of Omak in 1986. Over his career, Mike helped countless small water systems. During wildfires, he was instrumental in restoring water to stricken communities. He is described as “Mr. Reliable” by those who have worked with him and witnessed his pursuit of excellence. Mike was always willing to help and share his knowledge and expertise with everyone he worked with. He has had a significant impact in the industry, his legacy is an inspiring example of commitment and passion in the drinking water industry.
Jacki Masters Brown, Utilities Manager for the cities of Longview, Mt. View Edgewood, Port Orchard, Manchester, Kitsap County (Retired). Jacki has a long and storied career in the drinking water industry. She served on the Operator Certification Advisory Board, Board of Directors for the Lower Columbia Subsection and the South Sound Subsection of AWWA, Board of Directors for the Pacific Northwest Section of AWWA, Customer Service Committee, and Subsection Advisory Council. She has tackled water systems with numerous challenges and source problems and brought them up to standards and serving high-quality water. She shares her expertise and knowledge and is generous with her help and service. Her positive influence has impacted many drinking water professionals and water systems for the better.
Friend of Drinking Water
Jim Lynch, Public Works Director, City of Waitsburg. Jim worked in every public works area and achieved numerous certifications on his way to director in 2014. His finest character is his duty to the city, caring for the community and its utility systems. He was instrumental in proactive planning for infrastructure repairs and upgrades, allowing for the future drinking water needs of the city. He is an astute and generous collaborator, improving the drinking water quality and quantity supplied to the residents of Waitsburg. His foresight and legacy will benefit the city now and for many years to come.
Mark Hess, Water and Wastewater Foreman, Clallum County PUD No. 1. Since 2008, Mark’s performance and technical skills raise the bar every day in a way that elevates workplace standards and culture. Known for his resilience in extreme conditions and a steadfast “can-do” attitude, Mark brings exceptional technical skill and leadership to every challenge. His diverse background and dedication to excellence highlight his experience and effectiveness. A respected mentor and role model, he builds strong, respectful partnerships with contractors and navigates challenges with professionalism and poise. As he retires, Mark leaves a legacy of professionalism, service, and commitment to community health and safety.
Read about Past Drinking Water Week Award Winners (PDF).
For ideas about how to celebrate with your community, visit the American Water Works Association's website.
If you have questions about Drinking Water Week, please email Elizabeth Hyde or call 360-890-6753.