Message from Clay Rahn, President of RMWEA September 2025

Thank You for an Unforgettable Year!

Last summer, as I was thinking through—and admittedly freaking out about—how I could best serve RMWEA during my term as President, one realization kept surfacing: nothing lasting or meaningful will be accomplished without a great team. In other words, it will take a community of talented, dedicated, and passionate volunteers to help kick off and complete the initiatives I had in mind. I will not be able to do this on my own.

Thankfully, I knew RMWEA is full of individuals who embody exactly that spirit. I’m incredibly grateful to the many volunteers who stepped up, offered their time and talents, and supported the initiatives I believed would make a positive and meaningful impact for RMWEA. I sincerely hope you know how much it’s appreciated.

Together, we were able to bring three key initiatives across the finish line:
1. A refreshed vision, mission, values, and strategic plan: This new strategic plan lays a strong foundation for RMWEA’s future. It aims to bolster workforce support, improve collaboration between entities, increase the public’s understanding of our work, and shine a spotlight on the cutting-edge innovations our water community is driving.

2. Cloud-based hub: For years, RMWEA faced challenges with keeping our files, photos, and other important documents organized and accessible. This initiative will introduce a centralized, cloud-based file storage system that ensures better structure and strategic accessibility for both current and future volunteers.

3. Facility Asset Renewal Marketplace (FARM): Born out of the 2024 Innovative Water Technology Shark Tank session at the Rocky Mountain Water Conference, FARM is an exciting new platform to facilitate the exchange of wastewater equipment between members of our utility operations and maintenance community. Again, another idea developed by a team of talented and ambitious water professionals. 

It’s important to note: none of these initiatives were my original ideas. Each one was created by others and already in motion before my term began. My role was simply to support and elevate the incredible teams leading the charge—and it’s been a privilege to do so.

As my time as President comes to a close, I’m filled with gratitude, thankfulness, and yes, relief! But, it truly has been an honor to serve this outstanding organization. Now, I’m thrilled (more than you know) to pass the torch to our incoming President, Kristin Johansen. She has some amazing initiatives of her own and comes in with fresh eyes and energy. I have no doubt she’ll lead with strength, vision, and heart.

Thank you again for an unforgettable year and for allowing me the honor to serve as your president.