Opening General Session: Travis Mills, A Story of Resilience

Opening General Session
Monday, September 29 | 8:30–9:30 AM

Resilience is something members of the water community know well—whether in our infrastructure, in our communities, or in our personal lives. At WEFTEC 2025, that theme takes center stage with keynote speaker Travis Mills, retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant, author, and founder of the Travis Mills Foundation.

Mills is one of only five servicemen from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive as a quadruple amputee. On his third tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2012, he was critically injured by an improvised explosive device (IED), losing portions of both arms and both legs. Through extraordinary courage, determination, and an unshakable will to live, Mills has transformed his experience into a powerful message of perseverance: “Never give up. Never quit.”

Despite enormous obstacles, Mills has built a life defined by strength, humor, and service. He founded the Travis Mills Foundation in 2013, which supports recalibrated veterans and their families through all-expenses-paid, barrier-free retreats in Maine. Since opening its retreat center in 2017, the foundation has hosted hundreds of veteran families, offering adaptive activities, community, and much-needed rest and recovery.

Mills’ story has been shared nationwide through his bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, his new book, Bounce Back, and the award-winning documentary Travis: A Soldier’s Story. His larger-than-life personality, sense of humor, and incredible passion for life inspire audiences everywhere.

At WEFTEC’s Opening General Session, attendees will gain inspiration to face challenges with renewed strength and perspective. Mills’ story demonstrates how resilience, adaptability, and community can fuel progress—qualities that echo throughout the water sector.

Don’t miss your chance to be inspired. Join us Monday, September 29, at 8:30 AM in the Opening General Session.

📚 Both of Mills’ books will be available at the WEFTEC Bookstore beginning Monday, September 29, with a book signing from 10:30–11:45 AM in the WEF Community HUB, North Hall B.