Navigating the Evolving Water Landscape with Purpose-Driven Leadership
As I sit here reflecting on the invaluable insights shared at the 2025 WEF/AWWA Utility Management Conference, I can’t help but feel a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for the future of our industry. The water sector is undoubtedly facing a myriad of complex challenges – from aging infrastructure and affordability concerns to the pressing need for sustainability and equity. But amidst this backdrop of uncertainty, I witnessed something truly remarkable: a community of water professionals who are rising to the occasion with unwavering dedication and innovative spirit.
Cultivating a Diverse, Inclusive Talent Pipeline
One of the highlights for me was the launch of the Transformative Water Leadership Academy (TWLA) – a program developed by AWWA and the WaterNow Alliance, with grant funding from the EPA. This 10-month initiative is designed to empower the next generation of water utility leaders, equipping them with the skills and mindset to navigate the industry’s evolving landscape.
What makes TWLA so compelling is its laser-focus on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the Brookings Institution observed, many US communities struggle to create more equitable and inclusive employment opportunities, while much of the nation’s water infrastructure is in dire need of repair and replacement. TWLA aims to broaden the talent pipeline for the water community, attracting participants from a wide range of regions, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
“The future of water is inclusive and sustainable,” shared Gabriel Evans, an Equity Intern from the City of Scottsdale, AZ. “We are going to look for sustainable practices that include everyone that it affects.” This sentiment was echoed by Kevin Rodier, an Engineering Project Manager from New Jersey American Water, who emphasized the need for “clean, safe, and most importantly, affordable drinking water” – delivered through an equitable and inclusive lens.
Redefining the Water Utility’s Role as an Anchor Institution
Another key theme that emerged was the water utility’s evolving role as an “anchor institution” within its community. Esther Baptiste, a Management Professional-Systems Planning at the Great Lakes Water Authority in Michigan, eloquently captured this shift: “The future of water is collaborative and inclusive. That is because the most intimate human experience with your community is through water, and it needs to reflect that.”
Indeed, forward-thinking utilities are recognizing that their responsibility extends far beyond just delivering H2O. They’re positioning themselves as hubs of innovation, sustainability, and social equity – actively collaborating with diverse stakeholders to address the multifaceted needs of their communities.
Lisa Pace, a Conservation Specialist Senior at Colorado Springs Utilities, summed it up beautifully: “The future of water looks very different from what it looks like today. So it looks different from the people, different from the working style, the hours that people work, and the way that we integrate with technology for decision-making. So because that’s really tough for people, I think that’s going to be the biggest challenge.”
Embracing Technology and Data-Driven Insights
Underpinning this shift towards a more human-centered, community-focused water future is the strategic integration of transformative technologies and data-driven insights. Emily Stahl, the Manager of Technical Services at the City of Guelph, Ontario, Canada, shared her excitement about the role of technology in shaping the water sector’s future: “I think the future of water looks very different from what it looks like today. So it looks different from the people, different from the working style, the hours that people work, and the way that we integrate with technology for decision-making.”
From advanced analytics and digital twins to next-generation asset management and customer engagement platforms, water utilities are leveraging innovative solutions to boost efficiency, optimize operations, and enhance the consumer experience. And as Lily Lopez, the Director of External Affairs and Sustainability at the Walnut Valley Water District, pointed out, these technological advancements must be paired with intentional leadership development to ensure a smooth transition: “Through this academy, we’re doing transformative work to help leaders all around the country emerge. I’m excited that the academy will provide me with the tools and resources to grow as a leader and then to give that back to my community through our programs and resources, as well as to my colleagues who are young professionals as well.”
Building a Resilient, Sustainable Water Future
As I reflect on the insights shared at the 2025 WEF/AWWA Utility Management Conference, I’m struck by the palpable sense of optimism and determination that permeated the event. Yes, the water sector faces significant challenges, but the caliber of leaders and the innovative spirit on display give me great confidence in our ability to overcome them.
By cultivating a diverse, inclusive talent pipeline, redefining the water utility’s role as an anchor institution, and embracing technology-driven transformation, I believe we are poised to build a water future that is not only resilient and sustainable, but also deeply connected to the communities we serve. It’s an exciting time to be a water professional, and I’m honored to be part of this dynamic, ever-evolving industry.
So, if you’re feeling inspired to join us on this journey, I encourage you to explore the Inland Waters website to learn more about the innovative solutions and services we provide. Together, we can empower water professionals to tackle even the most daunting challenges and deliver a brighter, more equitable water future for all.
