Emerging Water Leaders Graduate From Transformative Water Leadership Academy

A cohort of 49 water professionals from across the United States and Canada graduated this week from the Transformative Water Leadership Academy (TWLA). Graduates completed a 10-month leadership development program – from January to October 2025 – designed to equip the next generation of water leaders with the tools needed to meet the evolving challenges facing the water sector.

TWLA is a collaborative initiative by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and WaterNow Alliance (WaterNow) and is supported, in part, by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The program focuses on developing sustainable leadership skills in future water utility leaders, such as community engagement, public health protection, environmental stewardship, workforce development, innovation and global thinking.

“Creating clear pathways for new leaders and inclusive spaces where they can thrive is essential to the future of water,” said AWWA President Heather Collins. “Programs like TWLA show what’s possible when experienced professionals take the time to guide and empower the next generation. It strengthens our entire water community.”

“We are incredibly proud of the 2025 TWLA cohort,” said Cynthia Koehler, executive director of WaterNow. “They are an amazing group of dedicated water professionals, and I have been impressed by their passion, creativity and openness to innovation that they have brought to this program over the past year. We are excited to continue to build this network of exceptional water leaders going forward.”

Throughout the program, participants took part in a series of dynamic learning activities, including in-person gatherings, virtual educational sessions, peer discussions, mentoring, and a capstone project to positively impact their community. Completion of the program earned participants certified contact hours through Water Professionals International. Together, these experiences provided a strong foundation in leadership principles, systems thinking, and practical strategies for leading within the water sector.

The TWLA 2025 cohort graduation took place Oct. 23 at the Springhill Suites By Marriott Denver Downtown. AWWA Immediate Past President Cheryl Porter offered remarks on the importance of preparing and championing emerging leaders to steer the water community forward.

“The future of water depends on courageous, collaborative and compassionate leadership,” said Collins. “Programs like TWLA cultivate purpose, trust and a shared commitment to serve our communities. These graduates represent the next wave of innovation and stewardship our world needs.”

The next TWLA cohort will convene from January through October 2026. For more information, visit awwa.org/twla.

About AWWA
Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most vital resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.

About WaterNow Alliance
WaterNow Alliance works to advance transformation in the water sector to accelerate the widespread adoption of equitable, climate resilient, and environmentally sustainable water management strategies. As a national network for local water leaders and decision makers, WaterNow empowers its members with the technical assistance, resources, and tools they need to implement innovative One Water drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater solutions in their communities.