Beyond Compliance:Integrating AWIA Risk Assessments into Enterprise Resilience & Business Continuity

The America's Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) mandates risk and resilience assessments and emergency response planning for water utilities; critical steps toward safeguarding public health and infrastructure. Yet compliance alone does not guarantee resilience. This session explores how organizations can integrate AWIA compliance into enterprise continuity frameworks to enhance resilience against physical, cyber, and operational threats. Megan Ellis will share practical approaches for leveraging AWIA-driven risk assessments as a foundation for comprehensive business continuity and emergency management strategies that strengthen organizational preparedness and adaptability. Attendees will gain actionable insights on building robust emergency response frameworks, coordinating cross-functional teams, and leveraging technology and community partnerships to ensure continuity of essential services during disruptive events. Underappreciated physical hazards (flood, wildfire, future extremes) will be discussed together with how they can mix with other threats. Real-world examples will highlight lessons learned, innovative tools, and collaborative frameworks that transform compliance into a catalyst for resilience and effective crisis response.