The Water Leadership Institute (WLI), a program of the Water Environment Federation that is designed to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and professional commitment from future leaders of the water quality sector, is now accepting applications for its 2013 program. Water, wastewater, and stormwater professionals are encouraged to apply before the submission deadline on Feb. 28. 

The WLI provides education, training, and networking to enable participants to build lasting relationships and develop the skills and knowledge needed to affect change in their organizations. A blended learning approach includes examination of complex water challenges, management training, and leadership development. 

“WEF’s inaugural Water Leadership Institute challenged us to reflect on our own leadership roles within the water industry,” says Chris Peacock, a 2012 WLI graduate and Westin Engineering business services manager. “Since there was such great diversity represented in the group in terms of age, gender, nationality, and professional roles, we were able to see a variety of perspectives. We spent time looking holistically at the challenges facing the industry, creatively found innovative solutions to those challenges through collaboration, and learned from one another.” 

Following a free application, the 2013 program will be delivered online by expert instructors and guests from water and wastewater utilities, companies active in the sector, government agencies, communications firms, and financial groups. Supplements to the program include discussion groups, mentoring with program alumni, and online community participation. A competitive application process will determine program participation. 

WEF, and endorsing partner, the American Water Works Association, encourage emerging water leaders — including young professionals, career changers, and veterans — to visit www.water-leadership-institute.org for more information about the program and application process. 

About WEF
Founded in 1928, the Water Environment Federation is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization of 36,000 individual members and 75 affiliated member associations representing water quality professionals around the world. WEF members, member associations and staff proudly work to achieve our mission to provide bold leadership, champion innovation, connect water professionals, and leverage knowledge to support clean and safe water worldwide. To learn more, visit www.wef.org.