CUES is a Sourcewell-awarded vendor
CUES announced it has been awarded a cooperative purchasing contract through Sourcewell, a public procurement agency that serves government, education and nonprofit organizations across North America. This award recognizes CUES as a vetted and approved vendor, making its solutions more easily accessible to municipalities and public agencies through a streamlined purchasing process. For organizations in the water, wastewater and municipal sectors, the contract provides direct access to CUES’ full range of pipeline inspection equipment and software solutions, supporting improved infrastructure management, safety and operational efficiency.
Thompson Pipe Group receives 2026 NASTT Abbott Award for Innovation
Thompson Pipe Group received the 2026 NASTT Abbott Award for its Weldable Curve Joint, a next‐generation joint system for AWWA C300 concrete pressure pipe. Introduced in North America in 2025, the innovation eliminates the need for external casing pipes and two‐pass tunneling methods — reducing cost, construction risk and surface disruption, particularly in dense urban and environmentally sensitive areas. The Abbott Award for Innovation honors companies with recently launched, proven innovations that advance the trenchless industry by pushing design boundaries and solving challenging infrastructure conditions.
Franklin Electric promotes Bryan Duffy
Franklin Electric appointed Bryan Duffy to senior business unit manager for industrial distribution. Duffy will set the strategic vision for the segment, leading all commercial activities and supporting the needs and growth of Franklin Electric’s customers. With nearly three decades of experience in the pumping industry, Duffy’s expertise spans a range of industrial markets, including municipal water and wastewater, industrial and process water, commercial HVAC and construction dewatering. He previously served in business development and management roles at Franklin Electric where he was responsible for building the company’s industrial vertical turbine business.
Veolia launches national workforce partnership
Veolia has launched a new national workforce partnership with the National Youth Employment Coalition to help build the next generation of water and wastewater professionals. The new multi‑city initiative will connect young people in vocational and workforce programs with in‑demand, stable careers in the water sector through expanded recruitment pipelines, employer‑driven training partnerships and early career awareness. The announcement follows Veolia’s recent launch of its Workforce Academy, a free online platform designed to give young workers a direct pathway into water careers across the U.S. Through NYEC’s nationwide network of more than 200 workforce organizations, the partnership aims to engage underserved youth and address the water industry’s growing number of retirements with diverse, job‑ready talent.
Trimble to acquire Document Crunch
Trimble has signed an agreement to acquire Document Crunch. Document Crunch uses construction-specific AI document analysis and risk management across a project’s life cycle. The acquisition will allow Trimble to incorporate document intelligence and compliance automation across the Trimble Construction ecosystem, enhancing existing workflows in project management and construction ERP systems. Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.
Aries Industries adds West Coast distributor
Aries Industries has strengthened its western U.S. market presence with the addition of a dealer with locations in Washington and Oregon. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, family-owned Western Systems is known by its municipal customers for its broad product offerings and exceptional service. With locations in Spokane, Washington, and Clackamas, Oregon, Western Systems will sell Aries Industries’ award-winning products in Washington, Oregon and Idaho.
