2026 Young Professionals Awards
Nominations are now closed for WWETT 2026!
2026 awardees are being notified by end of December 2025, and will be announced mid-January 2026.
The Young Professionals Awards will celebrate rising stars making a big impact.
These talented professionals, under the age of 40, are shaping the future of the wastewater industry. Winners will be honored at the 2026 WWETT Show in Indianapolis during a special awards ceremony.
We are highlighting individuals who are:
- Under the age of 40
- Making a significant impact in their role in the wastewater industry
- Commited to driving advancements in their field
Please note, nominations can only be submitted for individuals who have not already received a Young Professionals Award previously. The deadline for submissions is November 21, 2025. Candidates must be under the age of 40 as of December 21, 2025.
Supported by
2025 Award Recipients
The Awardees were honored at a special ceremony at WWETT 2025
Joe Rebori comes from a family deeply rooted in wastewater treatment, representing the third generation of leadership in the industry. With 17 years of experience, he has contributed to innovative decentralized wastewater solutions for residential, commercial, and community applications. His work includes designing sustainable water reuse systems for visitor centers, truck stops, and wineries, turning challenges into environmental opportunities. A sought-after speaker, Joe has shared his expertise at WEFTEC, GreenBuild, and numerous industry conferences and webinars. Through leadership, mentorship, and collaboration, he continues to drive progress in sustainable wastewater treatment on both a national and global scale.
Ben joined Roto-Rooter in 2019 in the Water Restoration department of our Cincinnati branch. He was 20 years old! He very quickly stood out as someone that wanted to learn and do more. He transitioned into a newly developed trainer role on our trenchless rehabilitation support team. Despite his youth and inexperience, Ben very quickly turned himself into an industry expert. He has spent the last 5 years learning and improving his own skills on all trenchless pipe restoration services. He is a manufacturer certified trainer on Picote, Maxliner, Permaliner and Hammerhead equipment. He is also ITCP-CIPP certified through NAASCO.
At the age of 29, Jake now runs the division which consists of 15+ employees, 5 Ibak cctv units, 5 combo jetter units. Jake has proven leadership skills in scenarios where there were many problems and concerns, but he always leaves the customers happy and calling back. As an Estimator and Camera Lead, he not only ensures precision in project planning and execution but also leads by example as he manages a skilled team of operators, laborers, and camera technicians. His leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence have helped drive efficiency, safety, and success in every project he touches. Beyond the numbers, he is a mentor, a problem-solver, and a professional who truly "owns it, leads it, earns it, and cares for it." His passion for innovation and teamwork makes him a rising force in the industry, and is a testament that young driven people can make an impact in the industry.
Jon has actively been contributing to the onsite wastewater treatment industry in various roles since the last 10 years. Jonathan has been a key part of the Infiltrator R&D development efforts to design new advanced treatment systems for combined treatment and dispersal such as AeroFin and ATL products as well as advanced treatment systems such as ECOPOD-NX. He leads the wastewater testing efforts for various Infiltrator development efforts at test centers across the country. Jon has also published many industry articles and white papers covering topics such as the benefits of passive onsite treatment vs. centralized wastewater treatment, energy use of passive onsite treatment systems and best practices during tank as well as leachfield installations. Jon is Treasurer of Engineers without Borders, focused on supporting community development programs through sustainable engineering projects, such as remediation of grey water for agriculture use in villages and design of earthquake resistant domes for homes.
At just 25 years old, Austin has already achieved significant professional milestones. One of his notable accomplishments includes securing a grant for the City of Englewood, which was instrumental in upgrading the city's fluoride dosing system. His leadership extends to his current role as Village Administrator for the Village of West Alexandria, where he has demonstrated a keen ability to manage and wisely allocate resources. Under his guidance, the village successfully utilized grant funds to update its park, enhancing community infrastructure. His ongoing efforts continue to make a positive impact on the village, further underscoring his potential for future leadership and success.
Bradley is deeply committed to advancing sustainable water solutions and thrives in collaborative environments, inspiring young professionals through his hands-on approach and technical expertise. Known for his willingness to "do the dirty work," Bradley works alongside his team to tackle challenges and find practical solutions. His mentorship, teamwork, and innovative spirit foster a culture of growth and inclusivity in the workplace. With a B.Sc. in Hydrology and a decade of experience at NSF’s Waco Test Facility, Bradley advocates for regulatory changes to broaden water reuse system implementation. Collaborating with his team, he has championed water reuse efforts in an industry where only 13 states currently support such systems. His goal is to streamline regulatory processes, increase public acceptance, and educate others on the importance of water reuse as a response to persistent droughts. Bradley’s career, fueled by his passion for environmental sustainability, demonstrates to young professionals that solving critical global issues can be both fulfilling and impactful. His collaborative approach exemplifies how a shared vision and collective efforts can lead to meaningful advancements in the wastewater industry.
Since entering the onsite wastewater treatment industry as an owner operator in 2020 Shelby has worked tirelessly to learn the ins and outs of onsite wastewater treatment systems through hands on experience and from others who have generously shared their knowledge of the industry. With a goal of supporting sustainable and functional wastewater treatment Shelby has focused on fostering relationships with the community and homeowner education to continue to find avenues for improvement in all aspects of septic and sewer maintenance, repair, and installation in his rural mountain community.
Tracy Flint is a graduate of Arizona State University and became a quick cornerstone of the trenchless industry in Colorado. Throughout her career, she has faced many challenges with resilience and overcame obstacles with creative solutions with a relentless drive for success. While leading up the trenchless division in Colorado, she has installed over a million feet of UV CIPP and has been at the forefront of countless projects utilizing other trenchless technologies such as lateral rehabilitation and large diameter slip lining. She prides herself on valued customers relationships and creates a team environment wherever she goes.
Andrew is a thriving entrepreneur and has been driven and successful since his teenage years. Fearless in risk-taking, entering into the plumbing world at 18 and starting his own plumbing business in Montana not long after. He moved his family across the country to Raleigh, NC for the Zoom Drain franchise opportunity, and has quickly risen to the top and is now in the Top 10% of franchisees.
Veronica Crosier grew up in the portable sanitation industry with family's company recently celebrating 60 years of operation. She remembers attending the Pumper Show in Nashville for years as part of the family vacation. After college, Veronica entered the non-profit sector. She's led volunteer research trips in Kenya, developed and directed a youth adventure camp in West Virginia that received the Best of the Blue Ridge award in its first year of operation, and has brought in federal grants for at-risk youth programs. Earning the opportunity to serve as PSAI's executive director has allowed Veronica to use her skills to give back to the industry that raised her. Under her leadership, PSAI has seen year over year growth in membership and events (both reaching record numbers) and member benefits have expanded.
As President and CEO of PolyJohn Enterprises, Sam Cooper has been a driving force behind the company’s recent innovation, growth, and global expansion. Under his leadership, PolyJohn has strengthened its position as a leader in the portable sanitation industry, advancing several new products, expanding into European markets, and launching Rapid RPS, a disaster relief division designed to serve communities in crisis. Sam has played a pivotal role in strategic acquisitions, manufacturing advancements, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within PolyJohn. His efforts in smart sanitation technology and sustainability initiatives have positioned the company at the forefront of industry innovation.
Jason oversees critical areas like customer retention, wastewater management in Nampa, and operational compliance, always pushing for growth while maintaining our commitment to excellence. Although Jason hasn't received a formal achievement or accolades, he is well known in the community for his values and impact on all of those that are around him.
Joe has demonstrated exceptional expertise and leadership as a Manager of Field Services at Earthtek. Joe's standout achievements include his work on the Waimea Town Plaza wastewater treatment system in Waimea, Hawaii, where he navigated the logistical complexities of transporting and installing equipment across the Pacific, the Kirkland Gold Mine project in Ontario, Canada, where he managed regulatory complexities unique to the mining industry, and the wastewater treatment system for McLemore, a luxury resort featuring a world-class, award-winning golf course. Through his leadership and hands-on involvement in these and many other projects, Joe has made a significant impact on Earthtek's operations, contributing to the company's reputation for reliability and innovation in the wastewater treatment industry.
Parul Baranwal is a dedicated professional with a strong academic and practical background in Environmental Engineering. Parul's career spans various fields, including environmental sustainability, water treatment, and policy development. In addition to her academic achievements, Parul has contributed significantly to several projects aimed at improving community health and water access. As a mentor, she is deeply committed to supporting women in STEM, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to achieve their goals. Parul's work is a testament to her passion for creating a positive impact, both professionally and through her community involvement
As the City’s Environmental Health Administrator, Ms. Andico has excelled by streamlining the OWTS Program and effectively managing increased responsibilities. In 2024 alone, she oversaw the issuance of over 250 OWTS permits, hosted a meeting with more than 40 city-registered practitioners to discuss regulatory compliance and best practices, and made significant strides in workforce development and public engagement. Her ability to solve complex environmental problems, combined with her dedication to environmental improvement and support for others in the field, consistently raises the standard of excellence.
- Ben joined Roto-Rooter in 2019 in the Water Restoration department of our Cincinnati branch. He was 20 years old! He very quickly stood out as someone that wanted to learn and do more. He transitioned into a newly developed trainer role on our trenchless rehabilitation support team. Despite his youth and inexperience, Ben very quickly turned himself into an industry expert. He has spent the last 5 years learning and improving his own skills on all trenchless pipe restoration services. He is a manufacturer certified trainer on Picote, Maxliner, Permaliner and Hammerhead equipment. He is also ITCP-CIPP certified through NAASCO.
- Ben joined Roto-Rooter in 2019 in the Water Restoration department of our Cincinnati branch. He was 20 years old! He very quickly stood out as someone that wanted to learn and do more. He transitioned into a newly developed trainer role on our trenchless rehabilitation support team. Despite his youth and inexperience, Ben very quickly turned himself into an industry expert. He has spent the last 5 years learning and improving his own skills on all trenchless pipe restoration services. He is a manufacturer certified trainer on Picote, Maxliner, Permaliner and Hammerhead equipment. He is also ITCP-CIPP certified through NAASCO.
- Ben joined Roto-Rooter in 2019 in the Water Restoration department of our Cincinnati branch. He was 20 years old! He very quickly stood out as someone that wanted to learn and do more. He transitioned into a newly developed trainer role on our trenchless rehabilitation support team. Despite his youth and inexperience, Ben very quickly turned himself into an industry expert. He has spent the last 5 years learning and improving his own skills on all trenchless pipe restoration services. He is a manufacturer certified trainer on Picote, Maxliner, Permaliner and Hammerhead equipment. He is also ITCP-CIPP certified through NAASCO.
- Ben joined Roto-Rooter in 2019 in the Water Restoration department of our Cincinnati branch. He was 20 years old! He very quickly stood out as someone that wanted to learn and do more. He transitioned into a newly developed trainer role on our trenchless rehabilitation support team. Despite his youth and inexperience, Ben very quickly turned himself into an industry expert. He has spent the last 5 years learning and improving his own skills on all trenchless pipe restoration services. He is a manufacturer certified trainer on Picote, Maxliner, Permaliner and Hammerhead equipment. He is also ITCP-CIPP certified through NAASCO.
- At just 25 years old, Austin has already achieved significant professional milestones. One of his notable accomplishments includes securing a grant for the City of Englewood, which was instrumental in upgrading the city's fluoride dosing system. His leadership extends to his current role as Village Administrator for the Village of West Alexandria, where he has demonstrated a keen ability to manage and wisely allocate resources. Under his guidance, the village successfully utilized grant funds to update its park, enhancing community infrastructure. His ongoing efforts continue to make a positive impact on the village, further underscoring his potential for future leadership and success.
- Bradley is deeply committed to advancing sustainable water solutions and thrives in collaborative environments, inspiring young professionals through his hands-on approach and technical expertise. Known for his willingness to "do the dirty work," Bradley works alongside his team to tackle challenges and find practical solutions. His mentorship, teamwork, and innovative spirit foster a culture of growth and inclusivity in the workplace. With a B.Sc. in Hydrology and a decade of experience at NSF’s Waco Test Facility, Bradley advocates for regulatory changes to broaden water reuse system implementation. Collaborating with his team, he has championed water reuse efforts in an industry where only 13 states currently support such systems. His goal is to streamline regulatory processes, increase public acceptance, and educate others on the importance of water reuse as a response to persistent droughts. Bradley’s career, fueled by his passion for environmental sustainability, demonstrates to young professionals that solving critical global issues can be both fulfilling and impactful. His collaborative approach exemplifies how a shared vision and collective efforts can lead to meaningful advancements in the wastewater industry.
- Since entering the onsite wastewater treatment industry as an owner operator in 2020 Shelby has worked tirelessly to learn the ins and outs of onsite wastewater treatment systems through hands on experience and from others who have generously shared their knowledge of the industry. With a goal of supporting sustainable and functional wastewater treatment Shelby has focused on fostering relationships with the community and homeowner education to continue to find avenues for improvement in all aspects of septic and sewer maintenance, repair, and installation in his rural mountain community.
- Tracy Flint is a graduate of Arizona State University and became a quick cornerstone of the trenchless industry in Colorado. Throughout her career, she has faced many challenges with resilience and overcame obstacles with creative solutions with a relentless drive for success. While leading up the trenchless division in Colorado, she has installed over a million feet of UV CIPP and has been at the forefront of countless projects utilizing other trenchless technologies such as lateral rehabilitation and large diameter slip lining. She prides herself on valued customers relationships and creates a team environment wherever she goes.
- Andrew is a thriving entrepreneur and has been driven and successful since his teenage years. Fearless in risk-taking, entering into the plumbing world at 18 and starting his own plumbing business in Montana not long after. He moved his family across the country to Raleigh, NC for the Zoom Drain franchise opportunity, and has quickly risen to the top and is now in the Top 10% of franchisees.
- Veronica Crosier grew up in the portable sanitation industry with family's company recently celebrating 60 years of operation. She remembers attending the Pumper Show in Nashville for years as part of the family vacation. After college, Veronica entered the non-profit sector. She's led volunteer research trips in Kenya, developed and directed a youth adventure camp in West Virginia that received the Best of the Blue Ridge award in its first year of operation, and has brought in federal grants for at-risk youth programs. Earning the opportunity to serve as PSAI's executive director has allowed Veronica to use her skills to give back to the industry that raised her. Under her leadership, PSAI has seen year over year growth in membership and events (both reaching record numbers) and member benefits have expanded.
- As President and CEO of PolyJohn Enterprises, Sam Cooper has been a driving force behind the company’s recent innovation, growth, and global expansion. Under his leadership, PolyJohn has strengthened its position as a leader in the portable sanitation industry, advancing several new products, expanding into European markets, and launching Rapid RPS, a disaster relief division designed to serve communities in crisis. Sam has played a pivotal role in strategic acquisitions, manufacturing advancements, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within PolyJohn. His efforts in smart sanitation technology and sustainability initiatives have positioned the company at the forefront of industry innovation.
- Jason oversees critical areas like customer retention, wastewater management in Nampa, and operational compliance, always pushing for growth while maintaining our commitment to excellence. Although Jason hasn't received a formal achievement or accolades, he is well known in the community for his values and impact on all of those that are around him.
- Joe has demonstrated exceptional expertise and leadership as a Manager of Field Services at Earthtek. Joe's standout achievements include his work on the Waimea Town Plaza wastewater treatment system in Waimea, Hawaii, where he navigated the logistical complexities of transporting and installing equipment across the Pacific, the Kirkland Gold Mine project in Ontario, Canada, where he managed regulatory complexities unique to the mining industry, and the wastewater treatment system for McLemore, a luxury resort featuring a world-class, award-winning golf course. Through his leadership and hands-on involvement in these and many other projects, Joe has made a significant impact on Earthtek's operations, contributing to the company's reputation for reliability and innovation in the wastewater treatment industry.
- Parul Baranwal is a dedicated professional with a strong academic and practical background in Environmental Engineering. Parul's career spans various fields, including environmental sustainability, water treatment, and policy development. In addition to her academic achievements, Parul has contributed significantly to several projects aimed at improving community health and water access. As a mentor, she is deeply committed to supporting women in STEM, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to achieve their goals. Parul's work is a testament to her passion for creating a positive impact, both professionally and through her community involvement
- As the City’s Environmental Health Administrator, Ms. Andico has excelled by streamlining the OWTS Program and effectively managing increased responsibilities. In 2024 alone, she oversaw the issuance of over 250 OWTS permits, hosted a meeting with more than 40 city-registered practitioners to discuss regulatory compliance and best practices, and made significant strides in workforce development and public engagement. Her ability to solve complex environmental problems, combined with her dedication to environmental improvement and support for others in the field, consistently raises the standard of excellence.
2025 Highlights
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