2025 Water for Texas Conference: Full Schedule

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8:30am CST

Wednesday January 29, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am CST

Brackish groundwater and seawater are largely untapped water sources with great potential. As more communities consider brackish and/or seawater desalination as a strategy to meet future water needs, there are some challenges to overcome. This panel will examine the role of desalination in Texas' water future and the technologies and innovations that shape its path to implementation.

Speakers

Charles Ortiz, P.E.

District Engineer, Laguna Madre Water District

Charles Ortiz is the district engineer for the Laguna Madre Water District, implementing water and sewer system improvements since 2011. Job duties have included capital planning, design, and construction management for water treatment and distribution as well as wastewater treatment... Read More →

Tom Pankratz

Editor and Consultant, Global Water Intelligence

Tom Pankratz is a Houston-based independent consultant and the editor of Global Water Intelligence’s weekly water desalination report. Formerly a vice president of CH2M Hill (now Jacobs), and a director with U.S. Filter/Veolia Water, he has been a desalter since 1980 and has served... Read More →

Art Ruiz

Chief Plant Manager, El Paso Water

Art has over 43 years of experience in water treatment and operations, including eight years in shipboard water operations with the U.S. Navy, 20 years in surface water treatment, and 15 years in reverse osmosis and well operations. He has an associate degree in water technology from... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am CST
Zlotnik 5/6

Breakout Session, Innovation and Legacy: Embracing New Solutions

9:45am CST

Technoloogy Toolbox: Water Management in the Digital Age

Wednesday January 29, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am CST

Zlotnik 5/6

This panel will examine the potential of AI and the adoption of digital tools in water management. Many industries are considering the integration of digital twin technology, drones, and other innovations to solve complex issues while recognizing the need for effective data management and robust cybersecurity. Experts will discuss the risks of technological stagnation and share practical advice for embracing digital advancements.

Speakers

Greg Eyerly

Houston Water Director, Houston Public Works

Greg Eyerly assumed leadership of Houston Water in November 2023. After serving in the Army, Greg graduated from Portland State University with an undergraduate degree in general science and has a master’s in business from Washington State University. He has over 30 years of water... Read More →

Barry Liner, Ph.D., P.E.

Chief Technology Officer, The Water Council

Dr. Barry Liner has been fueling his passion for water innovation by mentoring young global entrepreneurs at UNLEASH Innovation Lab, promoting startups at the Water Council, and having the good fortune to work with some of the best water minds during his time as chief technology officer... Read More →

Richard Loeffler

Client Solutions Manager, Xylem

Rich Loeffler has worked in the water sector for 17 years and currently serves as a client solutions manager for Xylem's data and intelligence offerings. He's responsible for collaborating with utility partners and clients to develop wide ranging solutions to provide operational data... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am CST
Zlotnik 5/6

Breakout Session, Innovation and Legacy: Embracing New Solutions