Webcast Series Description:
Co-created by the Water Environment Federation (WEF) and Raftelis, the Workforce Development Case Study Series: Building the Future Water Workforce is a dynamic initiative spotlighting innovative workforce strategies from water and wastewater utilities across the United States. Through monthly webcasts from December 2025 to March 2026, the series will showcase small, medium, and large utilities implementing best practices in recruitment, retention, technology integration, and leadership development. Each webcast will feature real-world case studies and utility leaders sharing actionable insights to help build resilient, inclusive, and future-ready workforces. The series will culminate in a recognition event and leadership roundtable at the Utility Management Conference in March 2026, fostering peer exchange and collaboration across the sector.
Webcast Event Description:
The final webcast in the WEF/Raftelis Workforce Development Case Study Series, Leadership Development, will explore how utility leaders are shaping both their own careers and the next generation of leadership within their organizations. Through candid personal stories from our panelists, alongside examples of apprenticeship, mentorship, and internal leadership pipelines, this session will highlight how utilities are developing leaders equipped to navigate change with purpose, equity, and innovation.
What You’ll Learn
- How utility leaders have navigated key career moments and leadership transitions
- Practical programs and strategies utilities use to identify and develop future leaders
- Insights on leading with purpose, equity, and adaptability during organizational change
Panelists:
- Aaron Kirkland, Superintendent, Green Stormwater Operations, Philadelphia Water Department
- Allan Clum, General Manager, Mt. Pleasant Waterworks
- Brian Carnes, General Manager, Loudoun Water
- Rocky Craley, Vice President, Raftelis (co-moderator)
- Laura Herman, Sr. Director of Workforce Development, WEF (co-moderator)
Continuing education credit will be available for attendees.
