Educate 2 Lead (E2L), a partnership between Water Education for Latino Leaders (WELL) and the California African American Water Education Foundation (CAAWEF), is a statewide initiative designed for mid-level managers in California’s water and energy sectors. The program equips professionals with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to meet their professional career goals.

Participants engage in five in-person sessions designed to foster practical leadership skills and professional growth. The curriculum, shaped by industry leaders from the water and energy sectors, centers on self-awareness, inclusive leadership, and fostering innovation. The sessions are further supported by academic leaders from the University of Southern California (USC) and Claremont Graduate University. The cohort size will be limited to 18 participants to ensure deep engagement.

Meet the faculty and pracademics!

Eligibility Requirements:

• Mid-level managers currently working in the California water and energy sectors
• Experience in a leadership role, with a commitment to driving organizational change
• Current mid-level career leader
  • Positions: finance, operations, engineering, communications, conservation, water quality, community engagement, utilities, field technician

Program Structure:

• Five in-person sessions led by a diverse faculty of 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 diverse leadership pipeline 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 needs
• Provide ongoing mentorship and support from diverse, experienced faculty members, equipping participants for long-term career growth

Deadline to apply: 

• July 11, 2025

Dates (All in-person sessions will be hosted in Southern California):

• Session 1: Thursday, September 25 – Saturday, September 27, 2025
• Session 2: Thursday, October 23 – Friday, October 24, 2025
• Session 3: Thursday, December 11- Friday, December 12, 2025
• Session 4: Thursday, January 22 – Friday, January 23, 2026
• Session 5: Thursday, February 26 – Friday, February 27, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the cost of the program?

The cost to participate in the program is $1,500. A limited number of scholarships are available, and early application is encouraged for those seeking financial assistance.

2. What does the fee cover?

This fee covers lodging, meals provided during official program times, a curated program curriculum, five in-person sessions, and logistics coordination. For further information, please contact Laura Juarez, Laura@latinosforwater.org.