Globally, only 18% of workers in the water sector are women

• About the Project
• The Study
• The Table
• 30×30 Plan
• Youth Hub
• Opportunities

WaterWoman Project

💧 About the WaterWoman Project

The WaterWoman Project is a global initiative dedicated to strengthening the water workforce by elevating the leadership, visibility, and contributions of women across the water sector.

Water and wastewater utility professionals are the unsung heroes of our communities—working around the clock to ensure safe drinking water, manage wastewater, and protect public health. Yet, despite their essential role, the sector faces a growing workforce crisis: aging personnel, limited recruitment pipelines, and a persistent lack of representation.

Launched by WaterRising Institute and supported by the U.S. EPA and The Water Tower, the WaterWoman Project builds on the findings of A Guide for Recruiting and Retaining Talent in the Water Sector. This groundbreaking report highlights the urgent need to attract, train, and retain a more diverse and resilient workforce.

Through research, training, and strategic partnerships, WaterWoman is working to:

• Expand career pathways for women and girls in technical and leadership roles
• Support utilities and communities in building inclusive workforce strategies
• Benchmark workforce data to identify gaps and opportunities
• Advance digital transformation to modernize water careers and services

By investing in the people who power our water systems, the WaterWoman Project is helping to build a future where water services are more resilient, trusted, and reflective of the communities they serve.