“The program was an unforgettable experience that will forever impact the way I see myself, my future self, and my place in the water industry.”
Update: The application deadline has passed for the 2026 program.
Overview
WEF awards five scholarships to young professionals (YPs) working for a utility in North America. The purpose of this scholarship program is to help YPs learn about what being part of the WEF Utility Management Community (UMC) entails and to increase YP involvement within this community. The scholarship allows YPs to expand their network to include technical experts and water industry leaders, and develop peer and mentor relationships, while also providing valuable contributions to the UMC. The WEF scholarship selection committee includes members of the UMC Planning Committee and UMC Leadership.
The WEF YP Utility Scholarship provides:
- Travel expense assistance
- Hotel expense assistance
- Meal assistance
- Full registration for the 2026 YP Summit and UMC Conference events
Eligibility criteria:
- A member of WEF
- A YP: water professional with five or fewer years of work experience in the industry and/or under the age of 35
- Currently employed by any department in a utility in North America
- Have not previously attended the YP Summit or Utility Management Conference.
- Ability and commitment to participate in and attend the 2026 YP Summit and UMC Conference in Charlotte, NC March 22 – 27, 2026.
Participant obligations:
- Participating in the YP Summit and Utility Management Conference, taking place Sunday, March 22 through Friday, March 27.
- Attending a WEF YP Scholar dinner, likely on Wednesday, March 25.
Feedback from past participants:
“I have made some amazing networking relationships, and learned valuable lessons that will help me excel in my career.”
“The program was invaluable. To be immersed in the industry and surrounded by knowledgeable, hardworking, and innovative people who want to do right by their communities and water as a whole.”
“As someone who has recently entered the water workforce, I was nervous about what I would be able to contribute with my peers. I was blown away by the sense of community and willingness to share experiences/perspectives. I also found the mix of consultants and utilities to be helpful in my understanding [of] the bigger picture.”
“I liked having the opportunity to connect with not only the group of scholarship recipients, but also the greater group of YPs from around North America… It helps to know that my utility is not alone in the issues that we are facing, and that I now have a larger network of people to reach out to regarding the best way to address water issues.”
Application
The 2026 application form IS NOW CLOSED. Completed applications will be due by December 1, 2025.
AWWA Water Equation Scholarship
Utility attendees might also want to consider applying for the AWWA Water Equation scholarship for young professionals at a water utility. Read more and apply.
Questions
Please contact WEF Staff, Alison Hayden, with any questions you may have.