Creating Community for Women in the Water Industry
When the Texas Section of the American Water Works Association (TAWWA) expanded its “Women in Water” presence to the Coastal Bend region of Texas earlier this year, Natalie Carpenter, a transmission and utilities engineer in our Corpus Christi office, stepped up and volunteered as committee chair to support the association’s goals.
TAWWA created the Women in Water committee to promote connection, collaboration and empowerment among women in the water industry and the broader community by developing an inclusive, supportive and inspiring network. The group endeavors to advance professional development, promote diversity and inclusion and strengthen meaningful relationships through educational, leadership and networking opportunities.
“Corpus Christi is a good-sized city, but we need more stuff like this, and I think it will really benefit the community,” said Natalie.
As chair, Natalie coordinates sponsors for events, plans monthly committee meetings, prepares meeting minutes and agendas, studies committee financials and leads all meetings. The committee recently hosted a “Lunch and Learn” event in October for prospective members to meet current committee members, as well as a networking happy hour event over the summer.
The committee members have established a well-organized group within a year, and the community’s interest in the group has continued to grow. Attendance doubled from the summer event to October’s event, and feedback from committee members has been overwhelmingly positive, appreciating the supportive environment and the opportunity to connect both professionally and personally.
“Natalie has been enthusiastic about getting a Women in Water group organized for her region,” said Erin Mills, Freese and Nichols’ Transmission and Utilities Team Manager for San Antonio and Corpus Christi. “She knew that there was a desire from other consultants and public entities to meet up and find ways to support each other. She organized group events and created an environment of fun and camaraderie. The events are well attended and are creating long-lasting relationships in Corpus!”
The Coastal Bend Women in Water committee stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of investing in people. As the group continues to grow, its members are shaping a more inclusive and empowered future for women in the water industry.