Women in Water Symposium Jan. 16 at Cuyamaca College

Posted on: Jan 6, 2020 12:00:00 AM
In: District, Cuyamaca
Campus Life
Contact: Anne Krueger anne.krueger@gcccd.edu

Whether you’re exploring a career in the water industry or already a professional in the field, the 3^rd annual Women in Water Symposium will provide valuable information about job and advancement opportunities in the water and wastewater industry.

The symposium will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16 at Cuyamaca College, followed by a tour of the Water Conservation Garden. Registration is free for students, and $35 for others.

“The water industry in San Diego County has more than 4,000 employees and needs men and women,” said Joe Young, coordinator of the Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College. “At the Women in Water Symposium, you can learn about the available jobs and find your passion in a rewarding career.”

The water and wastewater industry is a promising field of employment. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators in California earn an annual mean wage of more than $72,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The San Diego County Water Authority has estimated that about 400 positions will need to be filled by local utilities each year to keep up with retirements and vacancies as the result of an aging workforce.

The Women in Water Symposum will have three tracks – sessions for those interested in getting started in a career in water; those transitioning in the industry and seeking career advancement; and established professionals interested in forming professional alliances and promoting workforce diversity.

The keynote speaker is Shauna Lorance, public utilities director for the city of San Diego. The city’s department with more than 1,600 employees is one of the largest public utilities agencies in California. Lorance previously worked as interim general manager at Monterey County Water Resources, and held executive positions at the San Juan Water District.

For more information about the symposium and Cuyamaca College’s Center for Water Studies, go to centerforwaterstudies.org.