Duperon Corporation Regional Sales Manager Steve Aiken has been named the recipient of the 2026 Michigan Water Environment Association (MWEA) President’s Award, recognising his long-standing contributions to the water and wastewater industry.
The award is personally selected by the MWEA President and honours individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, stewardship and service to the water sector.
Presented annually by the Michigan Water Environment Association, the award recognises professionals who have made significant contributions through industry leadership, innovation, public outreach and technical expertise.
More than five decades in wastewater treatment
Aiken’s wastewater career began in 1971 when he joined Oakland County Department of Public Works in Michigan as a plant operator.
Over the following five decades, he held a variety of operational and leadership roles including operator, superintendent and engineer, gaining extensive experience across all aspects of wastewater treatment plant management.
Throughout his career, Aiken has served as a licensed operator for more than 40 wastewater treatment facilities, providing technical expertise and operational support across the sector.
Supporting utilities across North America
In his current role with Duperon Corporation, Aiken works with municipal utilities and consulting engineers throughout the United States and Canada.
His responsibilities focus on helping treatment facilities identify and implement solutions designed to improve wastewater operations and reliability.
Aiken has spent the past 15 years with Duperon, supporting projects throughout Michigan and the eastern United States.
Recognising industry leadership
According to Duperon President Mark Turpin, the award reflects Aiken’s technical expertise, operational knowledge and dedication to supporting wastewater treatment facilities.
The recognition also highlights the critical role experienced water professionals continue to play in supporting utility performance, regulatory compliance and environmental protection.
Read more H2O Global News coverage of wastewater treatment leadership and industry recognition.
Continuing contributions to the wastewater sector
Beyond his professional achievements, Aiken is a Vietnam Veteran and has remained actively involved in supporting the wastewater profession throughout his career.
The MWEA President’s Award recognises not only technical accomplishments but also the lasting impact industry professionals can have through mentorship, leadership and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MWEA President’s Award?
The MWEA President’s Award is presented annually by the Michigan Water Environment Association to recognise exceptional leadership, stewardship and service within the water and wastewater industry.
Who is Steve Aiken?
Steve Aiken is Regional Sales Manager at Duperon Corporation and a wastewater industry professional with more than 50 years of experience.
How long has Steve Aiken worked in wastewater treatment?
Aiken began his wastewater career in 1971 and has worked in the sector for more than five decades.
How many facilities has he operated?
During his career, he has served as a licensed operator for more than 40 wastewater treatment facilities.
What does Duperon Corporation do?
Duperon develops and manufactures preliminary liquid-solids separation technologies for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment applications.
Further information is available from Duperon Corporation and the Michigan Water Environment Association.
