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.
Please scroll down to fill out an application for Fall 2025. The application period will remain open July 1 – 31, 2025. The Fall course will take place October 15, 16, and 18. Applicants must attend all three sessions to participate.
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, nearly 1,000 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
Fall 2025 Schedule
Session 1 – Wednesday lunch hour, October 15 via Zoom. Welcome and overview by the General Manager’s office.
Session 2 – Thursday evening, October 16. Dinner, presentations, and activities. Topic: planning for a water-resilient future.
Session 3 – Saturday, October 18, 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
Please fill out the application form below by July 31 to be considered for the Fall 2025 class.
Nominations will remain open until July 18.
The Interest List is not available during open application periods. Please apply through the application form.