Watts has announced the recipients of its inaugural Backflow Hero Award. Recipients were selected by the Watts backflow leadership team from nominations from the Watts sales organization and rep network. The Backflow Hero Award recognizes those who have made a significant impact in the field of backflow prevention and individuals that embody the following qualities:

Passion for Protecting Drinking Water: Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to safeguarding drinking water from the dangers of backflow.

Innovative and Creative Thinking: Generates fresh, inventive ideas around backflow prevention.

Commitment to Education: Actively seeks and provides continuing education about the importance and methods of backflow prevention.

Enforcement of Best Practices: Upholds and promotes the highest standards and best practices in backflow prevention.

The 2024 Backflow Hero Award recipients are the following:

Dave Watson – Dave Watson Associates

Dave began working in the cross-connection control field in the 1970s, traveling from town to town to explain the need for CCC programs as the codes were being developed. Dave is dedicated to finding the best products to protect systems while managing the impact on customers. Over the years, he has recommended vacuum breaker designs, offered constructive improvement ideas, and produced backflow preventer repair videos.

Dave teaches at all Michigan Plumbing & Mechanical Contractor's Association (MPMCA) cross connection testing classes. He also presents to inspector groups such as PIAM, Tri-County, and SEMPIA. In his early years, he trained pipe fitters at GM, Ford, and Chrysler. He constantly interacts with local code authorities, addressing product listings and installation issues, and speaks directly with customers to gather feedback.

Jim Purzycki - Backflow Apparatus and Valve Company (BAVCO)

Jim is a highly experienced expert in backflow prevention and cross-connection control, with over 40 years of dedication to the field. Water agency personnel frequently seek his advice, and many of his innovative ideas have influenced backflow products available today. Jim is deeply committed to education, having served as an instructor and moderator at numerous backflow and water conferences nationwide. He remains an active mentor, teaching others about backflow prevention.

Jim is heavily involved with the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) at both national and local levels. He collaborates closely with manufacturers and approval bodies like the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USCFCCCHR). He has developed a comprehensive catalog of spec sheets, models, and parts for various assemblies and maintains a website with training videos on backflow assembly repair, installation, and maintenance. His three warehouse locations cover the entire U.S., reflecting his lifelong commitment to backflow prevention across all brands.

To learn more, visit watts.com/our-story/backflow-hero-award.