When someone turns on the faucet, fills a glass of water or prepares a meal for their family, they expect that water to be safe. They probably don’t think about cross-connections, backflow protection assemblies, testing, certification or the trained professionals working behind the scenes to protect that water supply. But we do!
For decades, ASSE has been a leader in backflow prevention and cross-connection control. That leadership comes from our standards, our certification programs, and, most importantly, the dedicated professionals who put those standards into practice every day.
As plumbers, sprinkler fitters, HVAC techs, water purveyors, and engineers in the water industry, we understand that backflow prevention isn’t simply about meeting a code requirement. It’s about protecting public health. One improperly protected cross-connection can potentially affect far more than one building or one customer. That’s why training, testing, continuing education and strong professional qualifications are so important.
Now ASSE is preparing to take another important step forward. Work toward ANAB accreditation of our ASSE 5110 Backflow Tester Certification is nearing completion. This will represent an opportunity to further strengthen the credibility, consistency and recognition of ASSE certification. I believe this is important not only for ASSE, but for everyone who has earned an ASSE certification and takes pride in what that certification represents.
I am proud to see ASSE continuing to move forward in this direction. Technology will change. Codes and standards will evolve. Our industry will face new challenges, but our responsibility remains the same. We need to make sure the next generation understands not only how to protect our water supply, but why it matters. Thank you for everything you do for ASSE, our industry, and the communities we serve.
The 2026 ASSE International Annual Meeting in beautiful Colorado Springs will be held the last week of October. Consider attending this industry-leading event. It’s always good to see what is new, what is being worked on, and how you can get involved. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well.
