Message from the Chair

Reflections from the Illinois Section:
Connection, Community, and the Road Ahead

By Tom Romza

As I wrap up my term as Illinois Section Chair, I have decided to look back on the past year and the themes that kept resurfacing in my messages, which were connection, gratitude, and the continued momentum of our industry and our CSWEA community.

My first article talked about how meaningful it was to be inducted into the 7S Society. Beyond the honor, it reminded me of the people who nudged me early in my CSWEA involvement. I was encouraged to say yes to committees, volunteering, and opportunities a little outside my comfort zone. It reinforced how important it is that we keep pushing the next generation, especially as our industry navigates a major shift in experience and leadership.

My next article was about human connection inspired by hosting my first Illinois Section meeting and watching my son start kindergarten in the same week. Both experiences were good reminders that communities thrive when people show up, participate, and support one another. And while new technology continues to transform how we work, the relationships we build are still what really makes the difference. My most recent article was about being busy. As I joked then, being busy isn’t exactly a shocking revelation in the water and wastewater world. But it’s a good kind of busy that tells us the work matters and that people rely on what we do every day. We keep showing up because protecting public health and the environment is never done.

Looking Ahead
Thinking about passing the reigns to a few extremely helpful and qualified successors, I still am genuinely excited to stay involved and keep contributing however I can. CSWEA is at its best when members step up, get engaged, and bring their ideas to the table. My hope is that the Illinois Section continues to grow in engagement, energy, and collaboration. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned veteran, there’s a place for you here. And if you’ve been thinking about getting more involved, consider this your encouragement to take that step. Some of the most rewarding experiences in my career started with simply saying, “Sure, I can help with that.”

Thank You
Serving as Illinois Section Chair has been an honor and a highlight of my career. I’m grateful for the experience, collaboration, and the people who make CSWEA what it is. So, thank you to everyone who supported the Section this year by donating your time and resources, your contributions, whether big or small, go a long way.

See you at the next event and as always, Bear Down.