Connecticut Water Service, Inc. announced that Maureen P. Westbrook, president of CTWS and the Connecticut Water Company, plans to retire on Dec. 31, 2022, and Craig J. Patla, vice president of service delivery, is expected to succeed her as president of CTWS and CWC, effective on Jan. 1, 2023.

Patla started his career at CWC in 1990 as a field engineer working on drinking water infrastructure projects. Over the years, he has held positions of increasing responsibility, and since 2014, he has served as the vice president of service delivery and has been a member of the Connecticut leadership team. In Patla's previous role, he was responsible for all company supply operations, field services, water quality, environmental compliance, safety and engineering, and planning functions for the company.

He led a statewide team of professionals providing safe, reliable drinking water and delivering infrastructure projects in communities the company serves. He led the company's emergency response efforts during major storm events and widespread power outages and is engaged with PURA on its Emergency Support Function #12 team. He is an active and vocal leader in water industry issues through his participation in industry professional associations, including the Connection Section of the American Water Works Association, the Connecticut Water Works Association and the National Association of Water Companies.

Patla is a licensed professional engineer in the state of Connecticut. He holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Massachusetts. He lives in Madison and has been involved personally and professionally in various community organizations, including multiple chambers of commerce, ad hoc town commissions for property evaluations, and multiple coaching and youth leadership and mentorship programs.