09/04/2026
Building the future of the water industry means making sure the next generation has a place in it.
At the 2026 WateReuse California Annual Conference, conversations around the future of water also created an important opportunity to talk about the future workforce that will support it.
Janel Ancayan, Senior Public Affairs Representative at the Water Replenishment District (WRD), joined us to share how partnerships can introduce students to the many careers that keep our water systems and communities running. Together, the presentation highlighted the importance of intentionally connecting students to the water industry through real-world career exposure and work-based learning.
Through initiatives like WRD’s Water Leaders Academy, students have the opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals, experience the work behind an essential public service, and discover career pathways they may not have known existed.
As the water sector prepares for workforce transitions in the years ahead, creating these connections early is increasingly important. Giving students a chance to see the people, purpose, and possibilities behind the industry can help build a stronger pipeline of future water professionals.
We’re grateful to have been included and invited to participate in an opportunity that brought workforce development into the broader conversation about the future of water.
Thank you to Janel, WRD, and WateReuse California for continuing to make students and the future workforce part of the conversation! 💧🌱
Water Replenishment District
Water Reuse California