In early 1976, a few “pump guys” were sitting around talking over cocktails. The conversation turned to the need for an organization dedicated to submersible wastewater pump manufacturers. A few months later, in April, the Submersible Wastewater Pump Association (SWPA) was formed.
SWPA began with just three pump manufacturer members. The organization quickly recognized that it lagged behind its European counterparts, and its first initiative to establish legitimacy was the creation of a technical handbook. Three years later, Charles “Chuck” Stolberg was brought on as executive director. His management skills and background in journalism led to the publication of the first edition of the Submersible Sewage Pumping Systems Handbook—a short, paperback publication that became the industry’s bible.
Under Chuck’s leadership, and with the commitment of its members, the organization flourished. Membership steadily increased and expanded beyond pump manufacturers to include component manufacturers and associate members. Educational programming was developed and expanded, SWPA’s technical resources flourished and Chuck’s vision of “forging the future of the submersible wastewater pump industry” became a reality.
Three additional editions of the industry bible were released through 2012. Live training events educated hundreds of industry professionals each year, and the organization continued to grow and thrive.
Chuck passed away suddenly in 2010, and his son, Adam Stolberg, assumed the role of executive director. Chuck’s wife, Carol Stolberg, continued in her role as administrative director—a position she still holds today.
In December 2025, SWPA released the fifth edition of the Submersible Sewage Pumping Systems Handbook. The book features expanded scope and updates reflecting the latest technological advances in the industry.
SWPA continues to educate the water and wastewater industry. Its two-day Pumping Systems and Controls training (cosponsored since its inception by Pumps & Systems) will be held April 21-22 in Chicago. This hands-on program covers a wide range of topics taught by SWPA industry experts. Participants will problem-solve, troubleshoot and work directly on pumps and control equipment alongside fellow professionals for two full days. For program details and registration, visit swpa.org or contact SWPA Headquarters at 847-681-1868.
For the past several years, SWPA has authored Submersible Solutions, a semi-monthly column appearing in Pumps & Systems. Planned topics for 2026 include: fighting flushables; dealing with today’s modern trash; differences between wastewater pump types; how digitalization is changing the wastewater industry; sizing and system design for wastewater treatment; best practices for submersible pump installations; cybersecurity in wastewater; and cavitation and air entrainment.
For membership information, live or on-demand training registration or to order technical resources including the Submersible Sewage Pumping Systems Handbook, 5th Edition, please contact SWPA Headquarters at 847-681-1868, contact Executive Director Adam Stolberg directly at 847-630-6000 or visit swpa.org.
