A Rare and Unforgettable Experience
The award-winning Citizens Water Academy takes participants on an interactive journey to explore how the regional water supply system is built for resiliency in uncertain times.
Through special access tours, discussions and presentations, class members go behind the scenes with water planners, managers, and engineers for an inside look at the water delivery system.
For questions email: wateracademy@sdcwa.org
Connecting and Educating Civic Leaders
The Citizens Water Academy brings together a diverse network of emerging leaders and professionals from across the region to gain a deeper understanding of the Water Authority’s life-sustaining mission.
Since the Citizens Water Academy was launched in 2015, nearly 800 civic leaders have participated and become water knowledge ambassadors.
The Basics
Citizens Water Academy is divided into three sessions, each scheduled to avoid conflicts with regular work hours. Participants must attend each session and the facilities tour to complete the program.
Participants are selected through a competitive application process. Future Citizens Water Academy dates to be announced.
There is no charge to attend, but there may be a reportable value due to food, beverages, and other items provided to participants.
Summer 2023 Program

“What a fabulous Academy this was. I greatly appreciate all the consideration and care that was put into this program to not only make the experience informative but also enjoyable.”
–CWA Summer 2023 graduate
Agenda Summer 2023 Program (Completed June/July 2023)
Session I – Welcome and Overview by Deputy General Manager
Tuesday, June 27, 2023 from 11 to 11:45am via Zoom
Session II – Planning for a Water Resilient Future
Wednesday, July 12, 2023 from 5:30 – 8:30pm, SDCWA Headquarters Kearny Mesa
Session III – Behind the Scenes at SDCWA
Saturday, July 15, 2023 from 8am to 2pm
Presentations and tours of SDCWA Control Room, Emergency Operations Center and Olivenhain Dam and Pump Station
