AZRE magazine will host the annual AZRE Forum on April 16 at The Camby Hotel Phoenix Biltmore for a lively discussion with Arizona’s top minds — including Shawn Bradford, senior vice president, regulated U.S. water for EPCOR — about the critical infrastructure issues facing the state. To get tickets or to learn more, click here. 

“Our panels of experts represent some of the brightest minds in the industry whose insights will leave you better informed about the most pressing issues in commercial real estate today,” says Amy Lindsey, vice president and publisher of AZ Big Media, which produces AZRE magazine.

Leading up to the 2026 AZRE Forum, we will profile each of the speakers. Today, meet panelist Shawn Bradford, senior vice president, regulated U.S. water for EPCOR.

LEARN MORE: AZRE Forum will examine water, power and future growth

AZRE FORUM: Here’s how to get tickets to the AZRE Forum

Shawn Bradford 

Senior vice president, regulated U.S. water, EPCOR  

Background: Bradford is responsible for the company’s current and growing footprint of regulated water utility operations in the U.S. — providing water and wastewater services to roughly 482,000 people across 10 counties and 27 communities in Arizona and New Mexico. 

Importance of AZRE Forum: “These events are essential because they bring developers, municipalities, utilities and regulators together to align on what responsible growth looks like in a desert economy. Arizona secured $34 billion in capital investment in 2025 alone — the largest single‑year total in state history — driven by tech, semiconductor, advanced manufacturing and AI industries. With that level of momentum, collaboration becomes even more important. 

“At the same time, Arizona is at a pivotal moment. With less Colorado River water available in the future, diversified portfolios — blending surface water, groundwater, reclaimed water and storage — are critical to long-term resiliency. 

“Forums like AZRE’s create the space for those fact-based discussions, helping projects move forward with more certainty and less risk. Ultimately, Arizona’s competitiveness depends on pairing economic strength with water security — and coming together around that shared responsibility is essential.” 

Trend to watch: “One of the most important trends is the emphasis on water certainty as a core element of site selection. Put simply, the water must be there — without question. 

“When gaps exist, they must be resolved before a project can advance. Projects that proactively plan around water needs move forward with greater certainty and fewer delays. Water informed planning — integrating supply, infrastructure and responsible use — has become a defining factor in commercial development, shaping Arizona’s continued growth.”