Our Mission for the AWBD Emerging Leaders Program focuses on and develops our current and next- generation leaders of Water Board Directors and Consultants. Program leaders will help foster professional relationships and personal and professional growth within AWBD.

Our goal for every class is to enroll a class of 18-20 AWBD member district directors and industry members to participate. Applicants should have five to fifteen years of experience on a water district board or in a related industry. We will give preference to applicants who have been active in AWBD and are involved in AWBD events and programs.

This leadership program will be an excellent investment in the participant’s professional and personal growth. Participants who will benefit the most from the Emerging Leaders Program are those who demonstrate the following characteristics:

  • A sincere commitment, motivation, and interest to participate in and better serve their communities;
  • Have demonstrated leadership in past activities or intend to seek future leadership roles within the water industry;
  • Individuals who understand leadership is a mindset, not just a title or position, and strive to reach their maximum potential; and
  • People who enjoy learning about others and expanding their knowledge of the water industry and state and local government.
 

Applicants should show how they demonstrate these characteristics in their application answers.  

 

Meet AWBD's Emerging Leaders

Requirements for Graduation:

  1. Each Participant cannot miss more than 12 hours, with no exceptions.

  2. Each Participant cannot miss the opening (12/6/23) and closing events (6/13/24).

Requirements for Participation:

  1. Must be a Water District Director or Consultant with an active AWBD membership, with preference given to enthusiastic participation in the AWBD organization, building strong relationships to grow and advance the industry effectively.

  2. Applicants should have five to fifteen years of experience on a water district board or in a related industry.

  3. Must have taken AWBD Director’s 101 or 201 Class OR have basic water district operation and management knowledge.

  4. Must be sponsored by an executive within your water board or company via the attachment in the application form.

  5. Always act with fairness, honesty, integrity, and openness; respect the opinions of others and treat all program participants, AWBD staff, volunteers, or community leaders associated with AWBD Emerging Leaders with equality and dignity without regard to gender, race, color, creed, ancestry, political beliefs, religion, marital status, disability, age or sexual orientation.

  6. Do not engage in activities that endanger the life, safety, health, or well-being of yourself, program participants, AWBD staff, volunteers, or community leaders associated with AWBD Emerging