Get Started on Your Application Today
Submit your application between April 1 -June 14, 2026 for the next cohort!
The Leadership Academy is a VA AWWA / VWEA initiative developed for professionals of all ages and experience in the water industry. Leadership topics covered in the Academy include moral and ethical leadership, team building, goal setting, working styles, effective communication, and more. The Leadership Academy is organized into a year-long course kicking off at WaterJAM 2026 and concluding at WaterJAM 2027.
COURSE OVERVIEW AND COST
The VA AWWA / VWEA Leadership Academy includes:
- Up to six (6) in-person workshops:
- One kickoff event at WaterJAM 2026
- Up to four (4*) training sessions held at rotating locations across Virginia
- One final workshop and Graduation at WaterJAM 2027
- Up to four (4) virtual skills-strengthening sessions (2 hours each)
* The final agenda for in-person and virtual workshops is still being evaluated- you will either have 6 in-person and 2 virtual sessions OR 5 in-person and 4 virtual sessions.
- VA AWWA or VWEA Committee Participation
- Participants are required to join a committee and contribute by planning an event, leading a task, or taking on a committee leadership role.
The program fee is $825 per participant, covering all workshops (with breakfast, snacks, and lunch), virtual sessions, and WaterJAM 2027 registration. The fee does not include association membership dues, transportation, lodging, or WaterJAM 2026 registration. However, participants may attend the Kickoff at WaterJAM 2026 without registering for the full conference. Accepted applicants will be directed to return to the application page to confirm their participation and submit the required fee.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
The following are expected of all participants to guarantee an effective and productive cohort:
- Attendance at all workshops is required for graduation. Participants may be permitted one absence from an in-person workshop and one absence from a virtual training session pending advance approval.
- Participants must be an active water professional within the Commonwealth of Virginia. Participants must also be a member of either VA AWWA or VWEA.
- A minimum of one year of professional experience within the water industry is required. Applicants with experience in other industries and military are considered after meeting the minimum requirement.
- The ability to travel to and from WaterJAM and all in-person workshops.
HOW TO APPLY
Please read the entire application and all instructions before you begin!
- Admission into the Leadership Academy is competitive. Applicants should take time to highlight how their professional growth and accomplishments will allow them to contribute to the cohort and how the Leadership Academy will contribute to their and their organization’s growth. Each applicant will be reviewed solely on the information provided in their application package.
- The application period opens April 1, 2026. For your application to be considered, VA AWWA / VWEA must receive all complete materials by the application deadline, June 14, 2026 at 11:59pm. Acceptances and regrets will be sent by July 24.
- Get the application packet here!
Collect Your Documents and Upload Them Here When Ready!
- Complete the 2-Page Leadership Academy Application with Confirmation of your VA AWWA or VWEA Membership or a Pledge to Join. Don't forget to Sign your Program Statement Agreement.
- Write a Personal Statement. Save a copy of your most up-to-date resume.
- Secure a Letter of Support from your Supervisor or Mentor indicating that you will be permitted to attend all events including Kickoff, every workshop, and Graduation.
- Submit all your documents at once on this link here when everything is ready!
PROGRAM BENEFITS
To cultivate an intimate learning and networking environment, the Academy accepts a limited number of participants. The full day and virtual workshops are taught by industry professionals or leadership instructors who provide interactive training for leadership skill development. The Academy is designed to attract a broad range of water professionals to encourage a variety of perspectives.
Do you have questions about the Leadership Academy?
Reach out to Rebecca Currall (RCurrall@HRSD.com)
More Resources
Click here to learn more about the Leadership Academy Committee which sponsors this program or to view the activities of the current cohort.
Here is what past participants have said about the Leadership Academy:
“This program has equipped me with valuable tools to tackle challenges that arise in leadership roles. Throughout the course, I've learned how to recognize the importance of empathy and effective communication, as well as how to foster strong relationships and build cohesive teams. The knowledge and skills I acquired during the Leadership Academy have not only enhanced my professional capabilities but have also had a profound impact on my personal growth."
–Tyriek Bayne (Utilities Engineer, Henrico County Department of Public Utilities)- Class of 2023
"My year in VWEA/AWWA Leadership Academy challenged me to discover and hone my professional leadership style. I enjoyed the training classes, travelling across Virginia, and attending Water Jam for the first time. I made connections with other water sector professionals and now serve on committees and subcommittees with them. I am grateful for these opportunities and encourage everyone interested in elevating their leadership skills to apply for Leadership Academy."
-Lisa Workman (Laboratory Coordinator, Water Quality, Western Virginia Water Authority)- Class of 2023
-Lisa Workman (Laboratory Coordinator, Water Quality, Western Virginia Water Authority)- Class of 2023
"The Leadership Academy was truly impactful, offering insights into leadership that not only influenced my professional life but also significantly shaped my personal growth journey. One highlight was discovering the concept of "Crucial Conversations," which transformed how I communicate, empowering me to navigate difficult discussions with empathy, mend relationships, and cultivate meaningful connections. I also appreciate the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of peers, each contributing a wealth of knowledge and showcasing unique working styles. Together, we are building a supportive network that extends even beyond the conclusion of the program."
-Ha Dao (Project Engineer, CHA Consulting)- Class of 2022
-Ha Dao (Project Engineer, CHA Consulting)- Class of 2022
“In preparing for a recent interview, I reflected on some of my most rewarding professional accomplishments, and being accepted into the inaugural class of the VA AWWA/VWEA Leadership Academy is definitely one of them. Learning the different facets of leadership has been motivating as I have found that I have been able to quickly apply these new techniques to my workplace. During my time throughout the course, I was able to secure a leadership position within my organization as this program has given me the confidence and the tools to be able to become a successful leader.”
-Angela Kilgore (Pretreatment and Pollution Prevention Supervising Specialist, HRSD)- Inaugural Class
-Angela Kilgore (Pretreatment and Pollution Prevention Supervising Specialist, HRSD)- Inaugural Class
“The Leadership Academy provides the opportunity to learn from and work alongside the rising leaders of the water quality field. Through this experience, I was able to expand my knowledge of emotional intelligence and transformational leadership, which are the foundation of successful leaders around the world. I look forward to applying that knowledge both in my personal life and professionally at the Western Virginia Water Authority as I prepare myself to be a leader in the water quality field. I highly recommend that anyone who is interested in elevating his or her leadership skills to apply as a student of the Leadership Academy!”
-Lacy Burnette (Environmental Programs Specialist, Western Virginia Water Authority)- Inaugural Class
-Lacy Burnette (Environmental Programs Specialist, Western Virginia Water Authority)- Inaugural Class
R
Rebecca Currall
rcurrall@hrsd.com
Cynthia Barnes
cynthia.barnes@vaawwa.org
434.238.5131