Four of Scottsdale Water's employees were honored this week during the 98th Annual Arizona Water Conference and Exhibition at the Phoenix Convention Center.

David Walby, Craig Craddock, Gary Tuning and Joe Maldonado each received individual awards for their work in 2024 during the conference which is held each year as a three-day program designed to provide professional development, continuing education and technology transfer for professionals in the water industry.

“These awards are not just a reflection of the professionalism of these four folks but are a testament to the caliber of all of our employees at Scottsdale Water,” said interim Senior Water Services Director Kevin Rose. “Because of dedicated teammates like David, Craig, Gary and Joe, I consider myself fortunate to lead this outstanding organization.”

Walby, who currently serves as Scottsdale Water’s director of water services was honored Thursday with the Water Environment Federation Hatfield Award. The Hatfield Award is a national-level award and is presented to operators of wastewater treatment plants for outstanding performance and professionalism. Prior to his current position, Walby served as the water reclamation director.

Craddock, Scottsdale Water’s wastewater collection manager, was honored with the Nathan Burbank Environmental Educator Award. Craddock has been with Scottsdale Water for three years and has more than 45 years of experience in the water industry.

Tuning, Scottsdale Water’s wastewater treatment manager, was named the Operations Leader of the Year. He has been working in the industry for 35 years and started with Scottsdale Water in November 2023.

Maldonado, wastewater operations supervisor, was named the Supervisor of the Year for Arizona. He has been with Scottsdale Water for nine years and an industry professional for 23 years.

Scottsdale Water, the city’s municipal water utility, is renown within the state and across the country for its innovation and dedication to providing quality drinking water and advanced reclamation services to Scottsdale businesses and residents.

Photo caption: Scottsdale Water award winners (from left to right) Craig Craddock, Joe Maldonado, David Walby and Gary Tuning at the 98th Annual Arizona Water Conference and Exposition located at the Phoenix Convention Center Thursday, April 17.