Dibble Strengthens Planning, Assessment, and Construction Department within Utilities Business Unit

Eric French, PE, Appointed Group Leader for Planning, Assessment, and Construction Team

Dibble, a multidisciplinary professional services firm, is proud to announce the appointment of Eric French, PE, MBA, as Group Leader for Utilities’ Planning, Assessment, and Construction Team. Eric has 20 years of experience in municipal water and wastewater programs, with a career distinguished by a collaborative, dynamic, and problem-solving leadership style.

Comprehensive Assessment and Rehabilitation Expertise

Eric’s leadership in assessment is rooted in his extensive work with the City of Phoenix (COP), where he managed the complex pre-stressed concrete cylinder pipe (PCCP) assessment program. His efforts included leveraging advanced inspection technologies and risk-based methodologies to prioritize and plan the renewal of 120+ miles of large-diameter water transmission mains, ensuring the safety and reliability of critical infrastructure. His approach coupled detailed shutdown planning with integration of real-time data and multi-technology investigations to guide timely and cost-effective rehabilitation decisions.

In his new role, he’ll also work closely with Dibble’s City of Phoenix Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Program team. He participated in the City’s program early on in his career, as part of his introduction to the design, construction and operation of collection systems, including new sewer line installation, sewer rehabilitation, lift stations, and odor control—a full-circle moment for him.

Construction Management Excellence

At EPCOR USA, Eric oversaw the delivery of their capital investment program, which grew in his tenure from $26 million to over $150 million annually. Major projects included nearly $200 million in greenfield construction and expansion of water reclamation facilities, such as the Luke 303 and Copper Basin Water Reclamation Facilities. His construction management approach emphasizes detailed planning, establishing clear accountabilities, and proactively and collaboratively resolving issues that arise during construction. Eric’s leadership allowed the projects to meet critical milestones despite supply chain challenges and field complexities, focusing on operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and positive community impact.

“I am honored to join Dibble as the Planning, Assessment, and Construction Group Leader,” Eric said. “This talented team has an impressive track record of success and a strong reputation for delivering quality solutions. Coming from the utility owner side of the table over the last 20 years, my primary objective will be to sustain and build upon current success by adding that perspective. My initial focus will be on developing strong working relationships with existing clients and identifying areas where I can help the team enhance efficiencies as we provide top-notch infrastructure solutions. Long-term, I am dedicated to laying a robust foundation for steady, sustainable growth focused on addressing the most pressing needs of our clients.”

“Eric’s collaborative spirit, dynamic approach, engaging personality, and open, introspective mindset—along with his reputation as a team player and strong problem-solving skills—align perfectly with the Dibble culture and business objectives. We’re excited to have him join our Utilities BU,” said Ezra Page, Utilities Business Unit Leader.

Eric earned his BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Washington, and simultaneously served in the United States Air Force, while earning his Master of Business Administration from Loyola University Maryland. He is a licensed professional engineer in Arizona and Washington State, holds multiple operator certifications from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, and has held pipeline and manhole assessment certifications from the National Association of Sewer Service Companies. He has been recognized for his service and leadership in both civilian and military roles.

Eric’s addition to Dibble reinforces our commitment to providing quality water and wastewater utilities from concept to completion. His expertise in planning and managing complex water and wastewater projects offers our clients additional insights and innovative solutions.

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