Meet the CASA Board: 2024-2025 Board President Craig Murray
Craig Murray completed his undergraduate degree at UC Santa Barbara in 1990, during the onset of an economic downturn. Recognizing that careers in the wastewater sector were largely recession-proof, he began his professional journey with the Goleta Sanitary District, where he focused on pretreatment and environmental compliance. After four years of hands-on experience, he pursued a Master’s degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Over the next eight years, he worked as a consulting engineer for two well-regarded firms, contributing to a range of water and wastewater planning and design projects. During this time, he earned his Professional Engineer (P.E.) license, collaborated with talented and supportive colleagues, and gained valuable industry expertise.

In May 2004, Craig was appointed General Manager of the Carpinteria Sanitary District. Although public agency administration was unfamiliar territory at the time, he embraced the role and, more than two decades later, continues to find it both interesting and deeply rewarding. He values the continual challenges the position presents and holds great admiration for those working in what is now known as the clean water industry.

What are some of your passions or hobbies outside of your work?
I really enjoy ocean sports, primarily fishing, surfing, boating, and freediving. My vacations usually include fly fishing, camping or adventure travel. And for some reason, I continue to frustrate myself on the golf course. Time with my adult kids is more and more fleeting, but I love spending time with them when I can.

What do you find most rewarding about serving on the CASA board?
As a CASA board member, it is rewarding to know that you are helping guide and position our industry for the future. But personally, I am most grateful for the opportunity to work closely my fellow Board members, all of whom are leaders in our sector, and with the incredible CASA staff who do the real heavy lifting each day on our behalf.

 

70 Years Strong! Here’s What’s in Store at CASA’s 70th Annual Conference
The countdown is on for CASA’s 70th Annual Conference! We are excited to celebrate this milestone with you in sunny San Diego. Join us at the Marriott Marquis from July 30 to August 1 for three days of networking, knowledge sharing, and celebration. This year’s theme, “CASA at 70: Honoring Our Past, Shaping the Future” pays tribute to our history while looking ahead to the future of clean water. With engaging programming, memorable anniversary events, and 70 years to reflect on, this is a conference you won’t want to miss!

Hotel Alert: Rooms Are Going Fast!

Our room block at the Marriott Marquis is sold out. If you haven’t yet booked your stay, we recommend making reservations as soon as possible.

Here are a few nearby hotels within walking distance of the venue:

  • Manchester Grand Hyatt: 619-232-1234
  • Westin Gaslamp: 619-239-2000
  • Marriott Gaslamp: 619-696-0234

Special 70th Anniversary Events

To help celebrate our 70th year, we’ve planned a lineup of exciting offerings throughout the week:

Golf Outing at Coronado Golf Course
Tuesday Morning, July 29
A portion of proceeds benefits the CASA Education Foundation.
Space limited to 40 participants. Separate fee required, available through the registration page.

Padres Baseball Game
Tuesday Evening, July 29
Join us for a night at Petco Park! We’ve reserved a block of seats so you can enjoy the game with the CASA Team and fellow clean water professionals in a relaxed setting.
Space is limited to 100 attendees. Separate ticket required, available through the registration page.

Tour of PureWater San Diego
Wednesday Afternoon, July 30
Explore one of California’s most innovative recycled water projects. Transportation will be provided. Separate registration required. Space is limited to 50 attendees.

Free Professional Headshots
Thursday, July 31 | 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Update your professional profile with a complimentary headshot from our onsite photographer. No advanced registration required.

Celebrate Your Milestones

Has your agency recently celebrated a significant anniversary? Let us know so we can include your milestone in the official conference program. Email Alyssa Downs at adowns@casaweb.org with your details!

Support the CASA Education Foundation

To honor CASA’s 70th anniversary, we’ve set a goal to raise $7,000 for the CASA Education Foundation leading up to and as part of the Annual Conference. Your support will fund scholarships for the next generation of clean water professionals. Please consider making a contribution or encouraging your board to donate.

Register Today

Secure your spot today and join us at CASA’s 70th Annual Conference for what is sure to be an event to remember!  We look forward to seeing you in San Diego!

 

CASA Mentoring Program
Calling all mentors and mentees! CASA is pleased to share that we will be continuing the CASA Mentoring Program in 2025-26. This 11-month comprehensive program, kicking off in October 2025 and concluding in August 2026, serves to connect clean water professionals from across the state of California. Working with Core Consulting, which has a depth of experience developing mentoring and training programs working with public agencies, CASA will match mentor/mentee pairs based on their professional goals, preferences, and experience. The program is open to both associates and agency members. If you already know you are interested in this program for the upcoming year, please email Alyssa Downs (adowns@casaweb.org) so we can add you to our interest list. Keep an eye out for more information on this exclusive member benefit!