The Educate to Lead Program, a collaboration between Water Education for Latino Leaders (WELL) and the California African American Water Education Foundation (CAAWEF), is a state-wide initiative designed for mid-level managers in California’s water and energy sectors. This program empowers women and leaders from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities by equipping them with the tools to drive meaningful change and foster Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within their organizations.

Participants will benefit from seven online and four in-person sessions, designed to be accessible and deeply engaging. The curriculum, developed by a diverse group of leaders and experts in the water industry, focuses on self-awareness, inclusive leadership, and fostering innovation.

Eligibility Requirements:

• • Women and BIPOC leaders currently working in the California water and energy sectors
  • Experience in a leadership role, with a commitment to driving organizational change
  • Interest in contributing to DEI initiatives in the water industry
  • Current mid-level career leaders in the following categories: finance, operations, engineering, communications, conservation, water quality, community engagement, utilities, field technician

Program Structure:

• • Eleven sessions (seven online, four in-person) led by a diverse faculty of BIPOC water industry professionals and general managers
  • Collaborative curriculum development led by university academics, leadership consultants, and experienced water sector professionals
  • A capstone project focused on addressing a leadership challenge within the participant’s home agency

Key Program Goals:

• • Develop a pipeline of women and BIPOC leaders for California’s water and energy sectors
  • Prepare participants to take on leadership roles that address the industry’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, workforce shifts, and evolving DEI needs
  • Provide ongoing mentorship and support from BIPOC faculty members, equipping participants for long-term career growth

Deadline to submit the application: 

• • December 31, 2024

Session Dates (All in-person sessions will take place in the LA/OC region)

• Session 1: In-person, Friday, March 14 – Sunday, March 16, 2025
• Session 2: Online, Wednesday, April 2, 2025
• Session 3: Online, Thursday, April 10, 2025
• Session 4: In-person, Friday, April 25 – Saturday, April 26, 2025
• Session 5: Online, Wednesday, April 30, 2025
• Session 6: Online, Wednesday, May 7, 2025
• Session 7: Online, Thursday, May 8, 2025
• Session 8: In-person, Friday, May 30, 2024 – Saturday, May 31, 2024
• Session 9: Online, Thursday, June 12, 2025
• Session 10: Online, Thursday, June 26, 2025
• Session 11: In-person, Friday, July 11 – Saturday, July 12, 2025