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LSPS Solutions Earns Fast Company World Changing Ideas Recognition for AI-Powered Utility Operations Platform

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LSPS Solutions was recognized for its Digital O&M Manual with Embedded AI Guidance, an innovative platform that helps municipal utilities preserve institutional knowledge, improve workforce training, and provide operators with instant access to critical operational procedures. Developed under the leadership of public works veteran Lynn Short and with AI implementation led by Chris Erhardt, the solution combines decades of utility expertise with artificial intelligence to help water and wastewater organizations operate more efficiently, maintain compliance, and address workforce succession challenges.

VICTORIA, Texas, June 17, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — LSPS Solutions has been named an Honorable Mention in Fast Company’s 2026 World Changing Ideas Awards, receiving recognition in the General Excellence category for its Digital O&M Manual with Embedded AI Guidance for Municipal Utilities.

Our goal has been to capture that expertise and make it available to the next generation of utility professionals. To receive recognition from Fast Company for that work is an incredible honor.

Selected from more than 1,500 submissions worldwide, LSPS Solutions was one of only 191 organizations recognized by Fast Company this year for innovations creating measurable real-world impact.

The award recognizes a challenge familiar to utility operators across North America: critical operational knowledge often exists only in the experience of long-serving employees. As retirements accelerate and workforce shortages continue, utilities face the risk of losing decades of institutional knowledge.

LSPS Solutions developed its Digital O&M Manual with Embedded AI Guidance to address that challenge. The platform transforms traditional operations and maintenance manuals into searchable, interactive systems that provide utility personnel with immediate access to procedures, equipment information, regulatory requirements, and AI-assisted operational guidance directly in the field.

The result is a practical application of artificial intelligence designed not to replace operators, but to help preserve expertise, accelerate training, improve consistency, and support better operational decision-making across water and wastewater systems.

“Throughout my career in public works, I saw firsthand how much critical knowledge lives inside the heads of experienced operators and supervisors,” said Lynn Short, President and Founder of LSPS Solutions. “When that knowledge walks out the door, utilities often spend years rebuilding it. Our goal has been to capture that expertise and make it available to the next generation of utility professionals. To receive recognition from Fast Company for that work is an incredible honor.”

Short founded LSPS Solutions in 2017 following a distinguished 25-year career with the City of Victoria, Texas, where he served as Director of Public Works. Drawing on decades of experience in municipal infrastructure, utility operations, regulatory compliance, and asset management, he built LSPS Solutions into a trusted partner for municipalities, water authorities, utility districts, and public-sector organizations throughout Texas and beyond.

The AI and automation components of the platform were led by Chris Erhardt, who oversees artificial intelligence initiatives and emerging technology projects for LSPS Solutions.

“Most discussions about AI focus on what’s possible,” said Erhardt. “Our focus has always been on what’s useful. Municipal utilities don’t need hype. They need tools that help operators solve problems faster, preserve institutional knowledge, maintain compliance, and operate critical infrastructure more effectively. That’s what this project was built to do.”

The company credited Brazosport Water Authority for serving as the first utility partner to implement the AI-enhanced platform and helping demonstrate its practical value in utility operations.

The Fast Company World Changing Ideas Awards recognize organizations, products, and initiatives that are addressing significant challenges through innovation, creativity, and measurable impact. Winners and honorees were selected by a panel of Fast Company editors and reporters.

About LSPS Solutions

LSPS Solutions is a Texas-based municipal consulting and technology firm specializing in asset management, infrastructure planning, regulatory compliance, GIS mapping, digital operations and maintenance manuals, and AI-powered solutions for utilities and public-sector organizations. Founded in 2017, the company helps municipalities, utility districts, and infrastructure operators improve efficiency, preserve institutional knowledge, strengthen compliance, and better manage critical public assets.

Media Contact

Richard Bonnin, LSPS Solutions, 1 361-212-8243, cerhardt@lspssolutions.com, https://www.lspssolutions.com/

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SOURCE LSPS Solutions

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PHAM NHAT VUONG AND PHAM THU HUONG TRANSITION LEADERSHIP ROLES AT VINFAST AND GSM

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HANOI, Vietnam, Sept. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — VinFast and GSM today officially announced new leadership appointments, succeeding Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong and Ms. Pham Thu Huong in senior global leadership roles. Accordingly, Mr. Pham Nhat Quan Anh, currently Chairman of VinFast Global, will concurrently assume the position of CEO of VinFast Global, succeeding Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong, while also taking on the roles of Chairman and CEO of VinFast Vietnam. Mr. Nguyen Quoc Tuan will assume the position of Chairman of GSM Global, succeeding Ms. Pham Thu Huong, while Mr. Pham Nhat Minh Hoang will become CEO of GSM Global and concurrently CEO of GSM Vietnam.

The strengthening of the senior leadership teams at VinFast and GSM comes as Vingroup and companies across its ecosystem accelerate the training and development of in-house talent and transition leadership responsibilities to a younger generation of leaders, in line with the needs and growth trajectory of the system. In particular, both VinFast and GSM are entering a period of strong and decisive growth on a global scale.

Prior to assuming the position of Chief Executive Officer of VinFast Global from Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong, Mr. Pham Nhat Quan Anh was appointed Chairman of VinFast Global in May 2026. With his official assumption of the positions of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of VinFast Global, as well as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of VinFast Vietnam, Mr. Pham Nhat Quan Anh will hold ultimate and comprehensive responsibility for all of VinFast’s operations as the company enters a new phase of growth.

Following his official appointment, Mr. Pham Nhat Quan Anh commented: “I am deeply honored by the Board of Directors’ trust and confidence in entrusting me with the additional responsibility. Built on a strong foundation established over the years and supported by the growing confidence of customers across our markets, VinFast is well positioned to seize the significant opportunities ahead and further strengthen its role in advancing the global transition to sustainable mobility. I am committed to working closely with our talented team to uphold VinFast’s core values and continue delivering world-class products and the highest standards of service to customers around the world.”

Born in 1993, Mr. Pham Nhat Quan Anh holds a Bachelor’s degree from Singapore Management University and has held several key leadership positions at VinFast and other companies within the Vingroup ecosystem before being appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors of VinFast Auto Ltd. in May 2026. With extensive cross-sector management experience and a strategic operational mindset, he has made significant contributions to VinFast’s development, from building its foundation in the domestic market to expanding its presence internationally.

In addition to his senior leadership responsibilities at VinFast, Mr. Pham Nhat Quan Anh will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer of VinMetal Trading and Production JSC, a high-quality steel manufacturer within the Vingroup ecosystem.

At GSM, Mr. Nguyen Quoc Tuan, currently Chief Executive Officer of GSM Global, has been appointed Chairman of GSM Global, succeeding Ms. Pham Thu Huong. Mr. Pham Nhat Minh Hoang will succeed Mr. Tuan as Chief Executive Officer of GSM Global and concurrently assume the position of Chief Executive Officer of GSM Vietnam.

Born in 2000, Mr. Pham Nhat Minh Hoang has held senior leadership positions at VinFast, Green Future, VinSmart Future, GSM and other companies. In addition to his management responsibilities, he has directly invested in and serves as a major shareholder of several industrial, technology, energy and infrastructure companies within the Vingroup ecosystem, including VinSpeed, VinEnergo, VinMetal, VinVentures and robotics companies.

VinFast currently has a presence in 16 countries worldwide, including key markets such as Vietnam, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Europe, the Middle East and North America. VinFast electric cars and electric motorcycles are currently manufactured at four facilities across three countries: Vietnam, Indonesia and India.

Alongside VinFast, GSM operates its green mobility brand, Green SM. The company currently operates in seven countries, including Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, Kazakhstan and Denmark, and plans to expand into at least three additional markets within this year. GSM is also targeting a transition into a globally scaled public company with its shares listed on an international stock exchange.

The appointment of senior leadership is of particular importance, not only in addressing the more demanding requirements of the companies’ next phase of development, but also reflecting positive expectations for the future of VinFast and GSM as they continue their expansion into international markets.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) company with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric cars, e-scooters, e-bikes and e-buses.

VinFast is embarking on its next growth phase by rapidly scaling its distribution and franchised dealership network globally while expanding its global manufacturing footprint across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Learn more at: https://vinfastauto.us

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SOURCE VinFast

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Achieve Publishes New Online Guidance for Freedom Debt Relief and Achieve Customers

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SAN MATEO, Calif., Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Achieve announced the publication of a new online resource designed to provide proactive, transparent customer guidance. As part of a broader financial wellness ecosystem, this newly launched initiative helps consumers understand the relationship between Achieve and Freedom Debt Relief in a natural and helpful manner.

As individuals explore ways to navigate their financial solutions online, they may encounter references to both the Achieve and Freedom Debt Relief brands. To ensure clarity, the new guidance explains that Freedom Debt Relief, a subsidiary of Achieve Company, continues to operate as an active, customer-facing debt relief program. By addressing both brands transparently, the resource supports distinct customer experiences without confusion.

A key feature of the new customer resource is account access clarification. The guidance clearly explains exactly where both Freedom Debt Relief and Achieve customers should log in to access their respective accounts and find dedicated support. While related, Achieve and Freedom Debt Relief maintain separate customer experiences, account systems, and support resources.

“Dealing with debt is personal, stressful and consequential,” said Achieve Senior Vice President of Marketing Layla Revis. “Consumers should know exactly which company provides their financial services, no matter where they begin their research. Whether someone is considering debt settlement through Freedom Debt Relief or exploring a personal loan or HELOC through Achieve, they deserve clear, accurate and accessible information before they make a decision.”

For more information and to view the new clarification and support resources, please visit:

Achieve: Understanding the Relationship Between Achieve and Freedom Debt ReliefFreedom Debt Relief: Understanding the Relationship Between Freedom Debt Relief and Achieve

About Achieve

Achieve, THE digital personal finance company, helps everyday people get on, and stay on, the path to a better financial future. Achieve pairs proprietary data and analytics with personalized support to offer personal loans, home equity loans, debt relief and debt consolidation, along with financial tips and education and free mobile apps: Achieve MoLO® (Money Left Over) and Achieve GOOD™ (Get Out Of Debt). Achieve is frequently recognized for providing top-rated customer experience and satisfaction by both consumers and leading personal finance review platforms and has 2,200 dedicated teammates across the country, with hubs in Arizona, California, Florida and Texas.

Achieve refers to the global organization and may denote one or more affiliates of Achieve Company, including Achieve.com, Equal Housing Opportunity (NMLS ID #138464); Achieve Home Loans, Equal Housing Opportunity (NMLS ID #1810501); Achieve Personal Loans (NMLS ID #227977); Freedom Debt Relief (NMLS ID # 1248929); and Freedom Financial Asset Management (CRD #170229).

Contacts

Austin Kilgore
akilgore@achieve.com
214-908-5097

Elina Tarkazikis
etarkazikis@achieve.com

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proof-it and The Tennessee Whiskey Trail Announce The 2026 TN Collective Tasting Notes Contest

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ATLANTA, Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 Tennessee Collective, a collaborative effort between 11 Tennessee distilleries, and proof-it, a next-generation consumer authenticity and engagement platform, proudly announces a partnership to commemorate the release of the The 2026 Tennessee Collective American Whiskey, a delicately crafted new addition to the whiskey industry of Tennessee that will give consumers a unique look into the craft, process, and flavor of each bottle, and direct participation with those who made it.

Each bottle will come with proof-it technology, giving consumers the chance to see the passion in each bottle.

A celebration of the long and rich history of distilling in the state of Tennessee, this new American Whiskey from The Tennessee Collective is a bold testament to the dedication and alliance of the industry. WIth efforts from Big Machine Distillery, Gate 11 Distillery, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Leiper’s Fork Distillery, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, Old Dominick Distillery, Old Glory Distilling Co., Peg Leg Porker Distillery, Short Mountain Distillery, Sugarlands Distilling Co., and Tennessee Legend Distillery, this bottle is a new entry in the history and camaraderie of the Tennessee whiskey distilling industry.

“proof-it has become an integral partner in the Tennessee Collective, creating an exclusive digital experience that connects consumers more deeply to the bottle, the blend and the distilleries behind it,” said Charity Toombs, Executive Director of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. “Just as importantly, their technology has given us a valuable window into our customers—helping us better understand who they are, how they engage with the Collective and what interests them most about the product and blend.”

The whiskey will be available starting September 1, 2026 at each of the participating distillery’s tasting rooms, as well as online for pre-order at www.tnwhiskeytrail.com/tn-collective. Each bottle will come with proof-it tag technology, giving consumers the chance to see the passion that went into each bottle, while also offering the chance to discover what makes this bottle unique. This year’s release unlocks a new way to engage with the story of each distiller involved, as each individual distillery’s allocation of bottles will come with a custom video and the story of their specific contribution to the whiskey, only accessible via the proof-it tag on the neck. Beyond a collector’s item, each bottle tells the story of its own existence in eleven different parts and celebrates the craftsmanship that went into this release.

To celebrate the launch, proof-it will also be hosting the Tennessee Collective Tasting Notes Contest through January 7, 2027, offering buyers an opportunity to explore the whiskey’s depth. Simply tap an unlocked smartphone to the unique proof-it tag on each bottle, and users can offer opinions and notes on what they taste in the rich complexity of this unique whiskey. The best entry to the Tennessee Collective Tasting Notes Contest will win tickets to Grain and Grits Festival 2026!

About Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Where the whiskey meets the road. Seven years ago, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail was launched by the Tennessee Distillers Guild as a celebration of our state and its signature spirits. Today we host more than 30 stops across the state, offering a taste of Tennessee and a road map for adventure. Visitors to the Trail can soak up the sights and sounds that have been shaped by Tennessee whiskey, whether stopping by for a sip or making a weekend of it. For more information, visit www.tnwhiskeytrail.com and the Tennessee Whiskey Trail’s Instagram @tnwhiskeytrail.

About proof-it

The proof-it™ platform enables consumers to learn the stories behind the labels of the brands they love, and manage their collections in revolutionary ways. Combining authenticity, consumer engagement, and tamper-proof technology at once, proof-it™ is leading the way into the next generation of consumer engagement and brand building. Look for the proof-it™ Wings™ logo and simply tap it with your unlocked phone.To learn more about the ways proof-it™ can enhance your consumer experience and beyond, visit www.proofit.app.

proof-it™ is powered by Aware Technologies, Inc., providing complete visibility throughout a product’s journey, and enabling new ways for brands to interact with their customers.

Full contest rules are available here: https://scan.proofit.app/contests/rules/tennessee-collective-rules-2026

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SOURCE Aware Technologies, Inc.

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