GWES PRESENTS AT THE 2025 GAWP SPRING CONFERENCE

Who’s Really at the Helm?

Collaborative Delivery in Action

LOCATION: Columbus, GA

YEAR: 2025

PRESENTATION: At this year’s Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP) Spring Conference & Industrial Symposium, Burke Murph, P.E., Principal at GWES, delivered a presentation titled “Who’s Really at the Helm? Collaborative Delivery in Action.” The session highlighted the critical role operators play in driving the success of modern infrastructure projects.

As construction costs rise, regulations tighten, and project delivery methods evolve, operators have become more than system caretakers. They’re innovators, problem solvers, and key decision-makers on the frontlines. Burke shared insights from an operator-focused survey that explored both the challenges they encounter – such as delayed involvement and design disconnect – and the opportunities for improvement, including earlier engagement, better communication, and structured input throughout project development.

The session aligned perfectly with this year’s conference theme, “Operators and Frontline Workers in Focus,” emphasizing that empowering operators from the beginning leads to smarter designs, reduced rework, and sustainable long-term performance.

A special thank-you to GAWP for hosting another valuable event dedicated to advancing water and environmental services across Georgia. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and collaborations in the months ahead.