Shaping the Future of Water Leadership — From the Sacramento Valley, For All of California
The NorCal Water Leaders Program cultivates the next generation of water stewards—leaders rooted in the Sacramento Valley who are ready to engage, collaborate, and help shape smart, sustainable water policy across California. This seven-month program builds a deep understanding of the region’s water landscape while connecting participants to the broader challenges and opportunities facing water management statewide.
Through monthly half-day seminars and immersive tours from January to July, participants hear directly from respected experts and thought leaders across diverse sectors. Each session explores timely and important water issues—including water quality, supply reliability, environmental stewardship, energy and hydrology, and integrated water management—with an emphasis on real-world challenges and collaborative solutions.
Why It Matters
Strong and informed leadership is essential to shaping effective and forward-looking water policies. As California faces increasingly complex water challenges, we need leaders who understand regional realities and are prepared to drive innovation, collaboration, and long-term solutions. The NorCal Water Leaders Program builds the capacity to develop smarter, more adaptive policies—grounded in local knowledge and designed to benefit communities, the environment, and the state as a whole.
Program at a Glance
How to Participate
Class members are nominated by NCWA members and supporting organizations. Active participation is expected and essential to the program’s success. Nominees often include district or company Board members, staff with leadership potential, consultants, and others who will benefit from the experience and help shape the future of water leadership. We invite you to be part of this growing network of water leaders—dedicated to building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable water future for California.
