Posts

EPA WaterSense-Excellence Award-QWEL-water conservation

Women in Water Conference Speakers List Announced

The speakers list for the 2024 Women in Water Symposium, “Empowering The Next Generation of Women,” is now set.

The event returns for its seventh year with a full-day event on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Cuyamaca College. Registration remains open.

Panelists representing a wide variety of disciplines at all levels will discuss career opportunities and paths. The full program is below the article.

 

Sarah Hargis, wastewater utility worker for the Padre Dam Municipal Water District, is a featured speaker. Photo: Sarah Hargis speakers list

Sarah Hargis, wastewater utility worker for the Padre Dam Municipal Water District, is a featured speaker. Photo: Sarah Hargis

“One of the biggest misconceptions about working in water may be that it’s solely about fixing pipes when in reality, it involves a wide range of roles requiring diverse skills such as engineering, science, management, IT, accounting, public outreach, and so much more,” said Sarah Hargis, wastewater utility worker for the Padre Dam Municipal Water District.

“The most rewarding aspect of working as a construction inspector for a municipal water/wastewater district is knowing that I make a direct impact on the community by improving  the longevity and quality of the water/wastewater infrastructure.”

Zoë Scott, marine biologist in the Ocean Monitoring Program at the City of San Diego, said people often imagine her job might be confined to a testing lab. Photo: Zoe Scott speakers list

Zoë Scott, marine biologist in the Ocean Monitoring Program at the City of San Diego, said people often imagine her job might be confined to a testing lab. Photo: Zoe Scott

Zoë Scott, marine biologist in the Ocean Monitoring Program at the City of San Diego, said people often imagine her job might be boring. “We participate in collaborations with other research entities to answer new and relevant research questions facing our oceans on topics such as ocean acidification, eutrophication, and microplastics. All this together means that our day-to-day can look very different; one day I could be at sea, the next at my microscope, the next at a research meeting, the next writing code to analyze our data and produce reports,” she said.

Specialist Debby Dunn poses with her "Groovy Garden" exhibit at the San Diego County Fair. Photo: Debby Dunn speakers list

Debby Dunn poses with her “Groovy Garden” exhibit at the San Diego County Fair. Photo: Debby Dunn

Debby Dunn, senior water resources specialist at the San Diego County Water Authority, said working for the public is especially rewarding: “By working in water efficiency, I get to create programs and projects that help residents and businesses use water wisely. This includes reducing leaks and helping people design waterwise wonderlands that are beautiful and invite birds, bees, and butterflies.”

Career discussions address varied experience levels

The event includes sessions that address career development, leadership, mentoring, interviewing and negotiation tips, diversity, and dealing with change. The day concludes with a networking opportunity at the Water Conservation Garden.

General admission is $35, but students, educators, and counselors can attend for free. Event registration is available online.

Event details and updates are posted at the Cuyamaca College Center for Water Studies website.

Wide diversity in career opportunities

The water and wastewater industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration, and information technology.

Approximately 4,500 professionals serve the San Diego region in water and wastewater careers. More than 1,400 of those workers are expected to reach retirement age within the next five years. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators in California earn an annual mean wage of more than $77,890 in 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. California is one of the states with the greatest employment opportunities in this career field.

 

The 2024 Women in Water Symposium welcomes everyone interested in exploring water and wastewater industry careers at all experience levels. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

2024 Women in Water Conference Fosters Workforce Diversity

Registration is now open for the 2024 Women in Water Symposium. The event returns for its seventh year with a full-day event on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Cuyamaca College.

While open to all participants, the full-day, in-person program theme is “Empowering The Next Generation of Women.” It offers valuable opportunities for networking, education, and career growth. The program combines insightful panel discussions with dynamic speaker sessions.

The conference is designed to help participants develop new skills, connect with their industry colleagues, and make meaningful strides in their careers.

“Our Women in Water Symposium brings together exceptional women from all areas of the water industry, along with talented women in training and those interested in water industry career opportunities,” said event chairperson Maria Rose, a management analyst with the San Diego County Water Authority.

“This annual symposium offers an unparalleled opportunity to listen and learn from your peers and leaders across San Diego County.”

Sessions address all experience levels

Attendees at the 2024 Women in Water Symposium on March 21, 2024 have an opportunity to speak with water and wastewater industry leaders. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Attendees at the 2024 Women in Water Symposium on March 21, 2024 have an opportunity to speak with water and wastewater industry leaders. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Planned sessions address career development, leadership, mentoring, interviewing and negotiation tips, diversity, and dealing with change. The day concludes with a networking opportunity at the Water Conservation Garden.

General admission is $35. Attendance is free for students, educators, and counselors. Event registration is available online.

Event details and updates will be posted at the Cuyamaca College Center for Water Studies website.

Explore career opportunities

City of Escondido Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Carrie Selby is among a growing number of women working in water and wastewater industry careers. Photo: City of Escondido

City of Escondido Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Carrie Selby is among a growing number of women working in water and wastewater industry careers. Photo: City of Escondido

The water and wastewater industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration, and information technology.

Since 2017, the Water Authority’s “Faces of the Water Industry” campaign has highlighted nearly 200 employees in San Diego County across multiple water agencies and job types.

The informational campaign is designed to introduce the wide variety of career opportunities available at all skill levels with an emphasis on welcoming a wide-ranging talent pool of candidates, including women.

Approximately 4,500 professionals serve the San Diego region in water and wastewater careers. More than 1,400 of those workers are expected to reach retirement age within the next five years. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators in California earn an annual mean wage of more than $77,890 in 2022, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. California is one of the states with the greatest employment opportunities in this career field.

Women in Water Conference Fosters Workforce Diversity

San Diego County Water Authority General Manager Sandra Kerl is the keynote speaker at the 2023 Women in Water Conference at Cuyamaca College Wednesday, March 29. This year’s theme is “Building Resilience In Post-Pandemic Times.” Kerl’s remarks will focus on the conference theme of building career resilience in a new post-pandemic work environment.

 

For the first time since 2020, the Women In Water Conference returns to Cuyamaca College on March 29. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Women in Water Conference Fosters Workforce Diversity

San Diego County Water Authority General Manager Sandra Kerl is the keynote speaker at the 2023 Women in Water Conference at Cuyamaca College Wednesday, March 29. This year’s theme is “Building Resilience In Post-Pandemic Times.” Kerl’s remarks will focus on the conference theme of building career resilience in a new post-pandemic work environment.

The conference starts at 11 a.m. followed by a reception and professional networking at The Water Conservation Garden from 5 to 7 p.m.

Conference topics include interview tips; advocating for needs in the workplace; working with diverse teams of differing personalities; and becoming a leader of influence and change. Participants can have a professional headshot taken at the start of the conference and visit exhibit booths featuring organizations from the industry.

This year’s conference is designed to help attendees realign their focus following several years of unprecedented challenges. The goal is to provide the tools and insights to help them navigate the new normal in the industry through both programming and career networking opportunities.

Conference topics address varied experience levels

Women In Water Conference attendees will have opportunities to network with water industry professionals. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

The conference opens with a panel discussion about career opportunities for women in the water and wastewater industry.

Each of the afternoon’s breakout sessions offers three specific career level tracks to address needs at each level: entry level for individuals new to water industry careers; people looking for career advancement; and established professionals interested in honing their leadership skills and advocating for workforce diversity.

Lunch, refreshments, and parking are included in the $25 general fee. Registration is free for students. Cuyamaca College is at 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway, El Cajon. Register here.

Wide range of career opportunities

City of Escondido Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Carrie Selby is among a growing number of women working in water and wastewater industry careers. Photo: City of Escondido

City of Escondido Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Carrie Selby is among a growing number of women working in water and wastewater industry careers. Photo: City of Escondido

The water and wastewater industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration, and information technology.

Since 2017, the Water Authority’s “Faces of the Water Industry” campaign has highlighted nearly 200 employees in San Diego County across multiple water agencies and job types.

The informational campaign is designed to introduce the wide variety of career opportunities available at all skill levels with an emphasis on welcoming a wide-ranging talent pool of candidates including women.

Approximately 4,500 professionals serve the San Diego region in water and wastewater careers. More than 1,400 of those workers are expected to reach retirement age within the next five years. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators in California earn an annual mean wage of more than $74,590, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Waterworks Management Degree Program Supports Career Growth

Water and wastewater industry employees can advance their professional careers with a specialty degree to help them achieve their goals. The industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration and information technology.

Military veterans are well positioned to take advantage of National University's Bachelor of Public Administration degree with a Waterworks Management focus. Photo: National University waterworks management degree

Waterworks Management Degree Program Supports Career Growth

Water and wastewater industry employees can advance their professional careers with a specialty degree to help them achieve their goals. The industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration and information technology.

The Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) degree with a concentration in Waterworks Management is offered by National University in partnership with Cuyamaca College. Monir Masoud, Director of Community College Pathways at National University, said scholarship opportunities can help reduce the cost of the degree program by as much as 46%.

Masoud said prospective students with an associate’s degree from any California community college can complete the degree using the one course per month format in 17 months, which is ideal for working professionals following a nontraditional educational path.

“We have a support system that we walk step by step with students,” said Masoud. “Students start with an enrollment advisor, then academic financial aid, and faculty.”

Students can also stretch out the courses with breaks when needed and continue to progress toward their degree at their own pace. Three students have completed the degree’s course requirements to date.

Value as a career advancement tool

Water industry professionals can accelerate their career advancement through higher education. Photo: National University

Water industry professionals can accelerate their career advancement through higher education. Photo: National University

The waterwork management degree, launched 18 months ago, was developed in collaboration with regional employers and driven by growing demands for skilled career professionals in the water and wastewater industry.

Graduates will be able to address the issues and challenges facing water and wastewater agencies at the state, regional, and local levels, including governing requirements and regulatory compliance, while employing water management best practices.

“I would tell my employees go get schooling because they become a change agent, said Masoud.”Most of our organizations, especially in California, are doing a great job upskilling their employees. And we have this tuition reimbursement ready for them. Employers can retain and maintain their workforce in this tough market we are in.”

Demand for skilled water and wastewater professionals

California Dept. of Water Resources staff services manager Norma Alvarado talks with students at a water industry career fair showcasing a broad array of options. Photo: Kelly M. Grow, California Department of Water Resources waterworks management degree

California Dept. of Water Resources staff services manager Norma Alvarado talks with students at a water industry career fair showcasing a broad array of options. Photo: Kelly M. Grow/California Department of Water Resources

The water and wastewater industry’s rapidly growing demand for highly skilled professionals shows no signs of slowing in the coming years. Impending retirements will create a need to fill California’s 12,000 to 20,000 water and wastewater jobs. Many of these positions require a bachelor’s degree, such as the National University BPA degree.

As seasoned leaders retire, water and wastewater agencies struggle to fill job vacancies requiring a focused bachelor’s degree. Students earning the new degree will complete National University’s four-course concentration of upper-division courses studying water and waterworks management and leadership, water law and compliance, and human resources and labor law.

Degree program well suited for military veterans  

National University offers all BPA courses online. Students can begin the BPA program at any time.

The BPA waterworks concentration is particularly well suited for veterans using their GI benefits to further their education. Veterans are eligible to apply their military experience and education toward certifications in the water industry.

Edwin McBride-SkillBridge Program-Water Industry

Smooth Sailing Into SkillBridge for Navy Veteran Edwin McBride

Edwin McBride decided 20 years in the U.S. Navy wasn’t enough time in the water, so he dove into the SkillBridge Program to intern at the San Diego County Water Authority. The program is helping military veterans transition to career-track training opportunities, including work in the water and wastewater industry.

Despite his two decades away from the civilian workforce, McBride said he experienced an easy transition into his role as a Rotating Equipment Technician Intern as a part of the SkillBridge program.

“The day-to-day job I’m doing with these guys at the Water Authority in the rotating shop is really no different than what I’ve done on the ships,” said McBride. “Still working on pumps, piping valves, stuff like that.”

Smooth transition for Edwin McBride

Part of his smooth transition can be attributed to McBride coming into the internship with applicable training and job duties during his time in the Navy. Since the work he did in the Navy was skills based, McBride was able to gain multiple qualifications and certifications during his time there that are applicable to the water industry.

“Every time you rotate from one unit to another in the Navy, which is about every 3-5 years, you’re expected to take on a new job … and the Navy recognizes you’re going to need these skills to be proficient in that trade so you would do what we would call trade school,” he said.

After three to four months of school in between units, another certification or qualification is earned, and this is what McBride attributes to his collection of certifications in numerous mechanical disciplines.

SkillBridge Program a “win-win”

Since joining the federal program in June 2020, the Water Authority has had five SkillBridge interns working in various departments. The program is a win-win for both employers and the transitioning military service member – the military service member can work fulltime in a participating agency for the last 180 days of their active duty gaining valuable civilian work experience, and the employer gains early access to the extensive experience, skills, and unmatched work ethos service members bring to the workforce, all at a very low cost. The service member continues to earn his wages and benefits from the military during the internship.

McBride said he discovered the program after hearing a few of his friends talk about it and did his own research to see if there were any opportunities to intern in his desired field.

“I started digging around a little and there were a few mechanical ones [internships] and the Water Authority was one. In my career in the Navy I worked a lot with pumps, water movement, filtration, water treatment and figured it would be a pretty easy transition from military to civilian skills,” McBride said.

Job opportunities in water industry due to “silver tsunami”

Just two months into the program, McBride decided he would like to continue working in Southern California’s water industry, preferably at the Water Authority, after his time in SkillBridge and the Navy is complete.

“It’s been fun so far, two months in, four to go. I hope this leads to a full-time job in the industry,” McBride said.

The opportunities for both transitioning servicemembers and local water agencies are significant. More than 30,000 service members separate from the military each year in California, and more than half are transitioning out of active duty in the San Diego region.

Roughly half of the current water industry workforce in the San Diego region will be eligible to retire in the next 15 years – and approximately 1,400 water and wastewater industry jobs are expected to open in the region in the next five years.

Drought Has Already Cost Close to $2 Billion and 14,000 Jobs, and It’s Likely Not Over Yet

A new report estimates that in 2021, drought conditions cost agriculture $1.2 billion and another half a billion dollars in other sectors. The report, written by researchers at both UC Merced and the Public Policy Institute of California,  blames these economic impacts on one of the driest water years on record, which resulted in huge water losses even after tapping into millions of acre feet of groundwater.

Veterans Career Day-Veterans Day-Work For Water-Military

Celebrating Veterans with a Career Day in Water

The San Diego County Water Authority and its 24 member agencies recognize military veterans for their service and actively recruit vets to fill new career opportunities in the water and wastewater industry. The San Diego County region employs about 4,500 water and wastewater workers, many of whom have successfully transitioned from the military to a new career.

Water and wastewater career day

The Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College and San Diego County water agencies are hosting a free career day on January 19, 2022 from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. for veterans looking to transition their careers into the water and wastewater industry. Many water agencies are hiring, and veterans have key skills needed to provide safe, reliable drinking water for San Diego communities.

Veterans will have the opportunity to meet water agency recruiters, learn about pay and benefits, and receive advice on different career pathways and fast-tracked educational opportunities. Registration is online at CenterforWaterStudies.org. The Water Authority is co-sponsoring the in-person event.

A transition to the water world

During a webinar hosted by the Water Authority, Leaders2020, and San Diego Green Drinks in October, Otay Water District General Manager Jose Martinez, a U.S. Navy veteran, spoke about his experience transitioning from the military to the water industry. One challenge Martinez faced was the difference in terminology used between the military and water industries.

As the Vice Chairperson of the American Water Works Association California/Nevada Veteran Engagement and Transition Committee, Martinez discussed the work being carried out to provide direct pipelines and pathways to the water industry. One such pipeline was Assembly Bill 1588, legislation championed by Otay Water District and the Water Authority that passed in 2019. The bill, sponsored by Todd Gloria and Adam Gray, provides experience and education credits toward State water and wastewater certifications.

Water Workforce Webinar

‘Silver tsunami’ of retirements in water industry

The opportunities for both transitioning servicemembers and local water agencies are significant. More than 30,000 service members separate from the military each year in California, and more than half are transitioning out of active duty in the San Diego region. Roughly half of the current water industry workforce in the San Diego region will be eligible to retire in the next 15 years – and approximately 1,400 water and wastewater industry jobs are expected to open in the region in the next five years.

In October 2020, The Water Authority and its 24 member agencies launched a new website – SanDiegoWaterWorks.org – that provides the first comprehensive posting of regional water and wastewater industry job openings in one location. The San Diego Water Works website includes:

  • Current water and wastewater job postings in the San Diego region
  • Training and education resources, career advice and internship programs
  • Featured jobs that highlight rewarding careers in the water industry
  • Information about special training programs and internships for military veterans
  • Tips and resources for transitioning military

San Diego Water Works Website

(Editor’s note: For a story about the successful transition of military veterans to the water and wastewater industry, including a video of a USMC veteran working for the Vallecitos Water District, one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the metropolitan San Diego region, go to: waternewsnetwork.com/veterans-serving-public-in-water-industry-careers/)

Learn About Water Industry Career Opportunities From the Pros

Looking for a challenging and satisfying career? Current and aspiring professionals can learn about water industry career opportunities through the San Diego County Water Authority’s “Faces of the Water Industry” social media outreach campaign in October.

The campaign, inspired by ACWA’s California Water Professionals Appreciation Week, highlights the San Diego region’s water and wastewater professionals and the essential work that they do to provide safe and reliable water supplies for 3.3 million people and a $253 billion economy.