Rick Warner, P.E.

Mr. Warner has over 30 years of experience in the public sector. He has devoted his career to providing water policy development, strategic planning, design, project management, construction management, permitting, commissioning, and optimizing operations. Mr. Warner’s expertise spans drinking water, wastewater treatment, and water recycling. Rick has essential experiences in non-potable reuse systems for municipal and industrial uses and is presently serving as Program Coordinator for OneWater Nevada, a regional initiative examining municipal-scale potable reuse. 

Rick inspires research and innovation by helping create the Nevada Water Innovation Institute.  The institute was founded by the University of Nevada, Reno, and local agencies to advance water treatment technologies and enhance water management strategies while improving economic, social, and environmental aspects.

Mr. Warner has held several leadership positions within the water sector, including the 2017 president of the Water Environment Federation (WEF) and the board of directors for The Water Research Foundation (2014-2018). As WEF president, Rick inspired the development of a Water Reuse Roadmap – a publication helping communities navigate the complexities of developing local water recycling programs and sustainable water management practices.

Rick has led several water sector initiatives to bring together diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals. Starting in 2016, he has convened annual Partnering for Impact events, which bring together water leaders to explore synergies to advance utility-university-industry partnerships, workforce development, and more sustainable water management practices. 

In 2018, the University of Nevada, Reno presented Mr. Warner the prestigious James G. Scrugham Medal, in recognition as the distinguished alumni of the College of Engineering. Recognizing Rick’s significant contributions within the water sector, in 2018 he received the National Advocacy Achievement Award from the WateReuse Association. Mr. Warner is a registered professional engineer in the state of Nevada. He received a B.S. and an M.S. in civil engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno.