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.   

The application period for Spring 2025 Water Academy runs from January 6 to February 28. Please scroll down to fill out the application below.

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 Fall 2014, 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.  

There is no charge to attend, but there may be a reportable value due to food, beverages, and other items provided to participants. For questions email: wateracademy@sdcwa.org  

Spring 2025 Schedule

Session 1 – Wednesday lunch hour, April 9 via Zoom. Welcome and overview by General Manager Dan Denham.

Session 2 – Thursday evening, April 10. Dinner, presentations, and activities. Topic: planning for a water-resilient future.

Session 3 – Saturday, April 12, half day. Breakfast and lunch, and behind-the-scenes tours of the Water Authority’s Operations Center and Olivenhain Dam and Pump Station.

“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 

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Application
Nomination Form