NUCA 2026 Winter Fly-in
NUCA of Oklahoma Advocates for the Utility Industry in Washington, D.C.
John Mozingo, Vice President of NUCA of Oklahoma, recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate on behalf of the underground utility construction industry and the communities it serves, as part of the larger NUCA Winter Advocacy Fly-in. The visit reflected NUCA of Oklahoma’s core mission: to elevate Oklahoma’s utility industry. We do this through advocacy, education, and working together on shared interests. It also highlights the important connection between NUCA of Oklahoma and NUCA National.
The trip began on Tuesday with a meeting with Congressman Richard Hudson of North Carolina, where the discussion focused on the State Revolving Fund (SRF) program. The importance of protecting and reallocating SRF funding was emphasized to ensure the program remains viable and is not reduced or eliminated. With America’s water and wastewater systems aging rapidly and current funding levels falling short, maintaining strong SRF support is critical to meeting long-term infrastructure needs.
The following day included meetings with Senate subcommittees to discuss key issues related to the Clean Water Act. These conversations centered on the need to fully fund and reauthorize both the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds at elevated levels. Continued investment is essential to address aging infrastructure, protect public health, and meet increasing demand nationwide.
Meetings were also held with members of Oklahoma’s congressional delegation, beginning with Congressman Josh Brecheen, followed by Congressman Frank Lucas, and concluding with Congressman Kevin Hern. These discussions focused on issues directly impacting Oklahoma, including the aging condition of the state’s underground infrastructure, the increased demand placed on utility systems by new and expanding data centers, and the critical need for workforce development. Emphasis was placed on targeting career technology centers and high schools to build awareness of career opportunities in the utility construction industry and to develop the next generation of skilled workers.
By engaging in federal advocacy and collaborating with policymakers and industry partners, NUCA of Oklahoma continues to elevate Oklahoma’s utility industry while advancing shared priorities that benefit the entire sector.
Just as important, this visit underscored the need for greater contractor involvement and membership. Effective advocacy depends on a strong, unified industry voice. NUCA of Oklahoma encourages underground utility contractors across the state to become members and actively support government advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national levels. Increased participation strengthens NUCA’s ability to influence policy, address workforce and infrastructure challenges, and secure long-term investment that supports Oklahoma’s growing economy.