HOT SPRINGS, AR Aaron Benzing, P.E., a Principal Engineer at Hawkins-Weir Engineers, is this year's Arkansas recipient of the Water Environment Federation's Bedell Award for Personal Service. The award was presented at the annual AWW&WEA meeting in Hot Springs, Arkansas. 

Benzing was selected for the award based on his demonstrated leadership as the AWEA President. In this role, he was the force behind two specialty conferences for the organization, both of which saw record attendance. As well, he helped develop the new format of the organization's magazine, "The Digester," and sponsorship packages to help financially support the organization. 

With more than 13 years of experience, Benzing has designed and managed a broad range of projects including water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, sewer system rehabilitation, hydraulic analysis, solid waste management, long-range master planning and construction management. He has a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Arkansas State University and a Master of Science in environmental engineering from the University of Memphis. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Mississippi. Benzing is a Principal of the firm and manages its Little Rock, Arkansas, office.