AWBD Emerging Leaders Program

The 2026 Emerging Leaders application is available! The last day to submit your application is end of business on Monday, September 22, 2025.

Remember that one of the class requirements for graduation is not to miss more than 12 hours.

Monday, October 20, 2025……………………….Class of 2026 Announcements (by email)

Thursday, November 13, 2025………………….Happy Hour & Alumni Reception

Tuesday, December 2, 2025…………………….Opening Session

Thursday, January 29, 2026…………………….Creation & Evolution of MUDs

Wednesday, February 25, 2026…………………The Agencies that Regulate & Influence MUDs

Monday, March 30, 2026…………………………AWBD: The Mission 

Wednesday, April 29, 2026………………………MUDs & Sustainability

Thursday, May 28, 2026………………………….Principles of Advocacy 

Thursday, June 18, 2026…………………………Closing Retreat & Graduation at Annual Conference

The AWBD Emerging Leaders Program provides participants with fundamental knowledge of the water industry and a deeper understanding of AWBD’s mission, structure, history, and impact. This Program will provide participants with the foundation to work within their own districts, local communities, and AWBD statewide to support and advocate for AWBD’s Mission and approach into the future.

Participants who will benefit most from the program are those who demonstrate:

  • A sincere commitment to serving their communities through informed leadership;
  • A desire to build a strong foundational understanding of the water industry and AWBD for future leadership roles;
  • A mindset centered on continuous learning, growth, and contribution — not just holding a title;
  • A curiosity for learning about others and expanding their knowledge of the water industry and related governance.

Applicants should show how they reflect these qualities in their responses.

The program’s mission is to cultivate the next generation of Water Board Directors and Consultants by:

  • Delivering essential industry and AWBD knowledge;
  • Encouraging meaningful engagement through site visits to high-impact districts;
  • Creating opportunities for growth and leadership development;
  • Building lasting relationships among peers and mentors.

Meet AWBD's Emerging Leaders

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 Leaders while on any local sessions or conference events. 

Requirements for Graduation:

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

  2. Each Participant cannot miss the opening  and closing events.