2026 is an important year for the Water Industry. The publishing of the Water White Paper in response to the Cunliffe Report has been followed by the inclusion of the Government’s Clean Water Bill in this parliamentary session. In addition, the International Water Association’s World Water Congress, a massive event held every 2 years in locations around the world, will be held in Glasgow this October. As part of the group organising some of the events it’s great to work with such an upbeat group of people all dedicated to ensuring that this country shows the rest of the world it’s capabilities and achievements.

Largely due to the hard work of the international planning committee for the Women in Water programme chaired by Sara McMath with Gill Edwards representing the UK, this congress promises to be the most inclusive World Water Congress held.

It can be difficult for women attending conferences, particularly if they are the only one from their organisation. If the majority of delegates are male, finding people to talk to during breaks can be daunting. As an engineer I know this is a particular problem where female engineers are still a small minority. At an international conference this issue can be multiplied with cultural norms and language skills further complicating networking.

The Planning Committee are determined that this congress will be different.  Apart from a number of one-off events for female delegates, a connection hub will be available for them to meet and chat to one another. A buddy system will be established for anyone who feels uncertain about attending such a huge event.

The congress offers a unique opportunity to promote all the good practice in the water industry. The Mansfield Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) scheme is frequently cited, and the Glasgow ‘Smart Canal’ are both excellent examples of managing the whole water cycle. Engineers are starting to think differently about water projects and must work in harmony with nature, rather than against it.

However, these examples are still the exception rather than the rule. We need to promote the good practice and look at other countries who have established a track record in good management of the water cycle such as the Netherlands and Singapore.

It has been a difficult time for the water industry. Endless headlines and even TV programmes slating the work of water companies has overlooked the depth of expertise for water in this country.

The government has committed to change the narrative regarding the water industry and it is essential that this happens. The age profile of the industry means that there will be a large number of retirements in the coming years. The capital investment agreed with Ofwat for this AMP period shows a tripling in expenditure which is further stretching resources. The water industry has predicted that over 40,000 additional employees are needed but the poor image is not helping recruitment. Many of the roles needed require STEM (Science, technology Engineering and Maths) qualifications. The UK organisers of the congress are looking at the feasibility of using it to promote work in the industry and to educate young people about the industry e.g. supporting visits to the congress by local school children. This can help promote careers in STEM where the water industry is having to compete against so many other industries. If visitors to the Congress see a good representation from women that helps change the image of both engineering and the industry.

I would urge all members of the network to look at attending, whether working in engineering or in other areas. With the help and support that the Planning Committee are putting in place this is an opportunity to give your own career a real boost and give you a chance to meet water people from all over the world. If you want to gain even more experience, there’s still room for further volunteers to help design the events which will take place.

This really is a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity to be part of the World Water Congress without leaving your country. I hope I’ll see you there.

Jo Parker, Director Watershed Associates Ltd.