WQA is the leading nonprofit voice in the water treatment industry, representing more than 2,500 companies around the globe. The organization is known for its rigorous Gold Seal product certification program and its commitment to advancing water quality education and standards.
For A. O. Smith, this appointment continues a long tradition of leadership and service within the WQA. Over the years, several experts from across the company have stepped up to guide the industry forward. Derek is the latest to carry the torch, and we couldn’t think of a better fit.
“More people than ever are paying attention to what’s in their water,” Derek says. “Whether it’s PFAS, lead, or even microplastics, these concerns are becoming more visible — and rightfully so. Now’s the time to make sure people have access to clear, science-based information and products that actually do what they promise.”
Derek knows a thing or two about giving people what they need. Since 2010, he’s led Aquasana’s direct-to-consumer (D2C) business — a model that lets the company stay closely connected to its customers and respond quickly to emerging concerns. Case in point: Aquasana was one of the first to develop drinking water filters certified to reduce PFAS, long before it was a mainstream concern.
Before diving into water filtration, Derek held leadership roles in sales and marketing at Dell Technologies in both the U.S. and Europe, where he helped pioneer the marketing-driven D2C approach that’s now standard across industries. His expertise in both understanding the customer and navigating the science behind water filtration makes him a powerful advocate for cleaner, safer water.
“Derek’s experience and voice are going to help elevate the conversation around water quality in a big way,” says Sam Karge, A. O. Smith’s president of North America Water Treatment (and a former WQA president himself). “He’s got a deep understanding of the industry and a strong passion for consumer education. That’s exactly what we need as we continue to raise the bar for transparency and accountability.”
Derek joins a long list of A. O. Smith leaders who have proudly served with the WQA — including engineers, directors, and five past presidents — further strengthening the company’s commitment to public health, safety, and innovation in water treatment.
We’re proud of this milestone and excited to see how Derek’s insight and leadership will help shape the future of water quality. Congrats, Derek!
Want to learn more about our mission to improve water quality and make filtration accessible for every home? Check out aquasana.com, aosmith.com, and wqa.org.
