Navigating the water sector as an emerging professional

The top 5 factors to optimize your participation at industry events

Attending WEFTEC (the Water Environment Federation’s Technical Exhibition and Conference) is an unparalleled opportunity to deepen knowledge and expand networks. With over 20,000 attendees, it’s one of the largest water industry events in North America. This year marked the fourth time attending for TYLin’s Aria Harris, a Water Infrastructure Engineering Designer. As an emerging professional, Aria shares the top five factors that made this her best WEFTEC experience yet, including advice for maximizing networking opportunities and building your brand.

1. You belong here

The water industry is actively working to create new spaces for YP’s and that includes a stack of new programs and events organized by WEF that are aimed at cultivating a new generation of water professionals. From scholarships to summits, these initiatives are designed to develop our talents and create a welcoming environment.

Programs like the Young Professionals Summit, Water Leadership Institute, WEF InFLOW, YP Utility Scholarships, the Student Design Competition, the WEF Students and Young Professional Community (SYPC), the Women in Water and the Black in Water communities are huge opportunities to help YPs like me feel supported and empowered and assure me there is a place for me in this industry.

2. Your network is your net worth

Going in with an existing network makes a huge difference. Having even a few familiar, friendly faces to look out for helped me feel more confident about belonging.

Before WEFTEC, I made sure to connect with people through LinkedIn and posted before about the events I was attending. Make sure you’re following the right hashtags and take the time to build out your schedule beforehand to ensure you make the most of your time and diversify your results.

Before you book your flights and hotel, be sure to look at the full range of events, as some activities take place on the weekend before the actual conference starts, like Waterpalooza and the community service project. These can help you connect with your peers and build a supportive community before the full-on conference days begin.

I also made sure to continue posting on LinkedIn while at the conference, to connect with people and stay engaged.

3. Embracing equity

An equitable water sector is essential for the future, and I saw a growing adoption of an equity mindset. Water crises like the ones in Flint, Michigan and Jackson, Mississippi highlighted the devastating consequences of neglecting equity in water management. It underscored the importance of ensuring all communities, especially marginalized ones, have access to safe and clean water and serve as stark reminders that equitable practices are not just ethical but essential for public health and safety. They demonstrate the need for proactive measures to prevent similar crises.

Industry leaders are increasingly acknowledging that building trust with the communities they serve is crucial. This involves transparent communication, active listening, and involving community members in decision-making processes.

As an emerging leader, an equity-focused approach is highly appealing to me. I want to ensure that my work emphasizes social responsibility and ethical practices. It’s crucial for me to enter an industry dedicated to equity and making a positive impact. Therefore, it was reassuring to see WEFTEC events highlighting the importance of DE&I, community-based approaches for equitable infrastructure planning, and the assessment of climate risk and its impacts, among other topics.

4. Your brand is your superpower

In today’s professional landscape, personal branding is crucial for growth. Take the time to define your personal brand by reflecting on your strengths, values, and passions. Building a strong online presence on platforms like LinkedIn can be incredibly powerful for sharing your insights and achievements.

At WEFTEC, I realized the importance of authenticity. By letting my unique story shine through, I was able to connect more meaningfully with others. It was rewarding to see others doing the same. To make a memorable impression, I even used my unique glasses as a statement piece. Remember, your brand should be a true reflection of who you are and what you stand for.

5. You will always be learning

There’s so much to learn in the water industry. As an emerging leader, remember that the journey of continuous learning is a testament to your potential; while it may feel like you're playing catch-up, your presence here signifies your capability and promise.

Embrace the mindset that this really is about lifelong learning! By keeping pace with the latest trends and innovations in your industry you not only sharpen your skills but also demonstrate your dedication to continuous improvement and professional excellence.

Take the time to walk the exhibition floor and ask questions. If you see a technology you are interested in learning more about you should feel empowered to find out more. Same for attending sessions, take notes and follow up with the speakers if you have additional questions.

The water industry is constantly evolving, and everyone in it is on a learning journey. Your growth is your greatest asset, so don’t rush yourself into a burnout – embrace the many opportunities at events like WEFTEC to grow at your own pace.