Authors
Ethan Knight (CIRES), Benét Duncan (CIRES), Leah Dory (CU Law School), Aditi Bhaskar (CU Boulder Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering), Paul Lander (CU Boulder Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering)

Abstract

The Colorado Water Fellows Program advances the next generation of water leaders by training and connecting undergraduate students to careers and opportunities in the water field. Western Water Assessment (WWA) is excited to host the Colorado Water Fellows Program for the first time at CU Boulder. Water Fellows are also hosted by other universities, including Colorado State University (the institutional lead of the program), University of Denver, Metro State University, Colorado Mesa University, and Fort Lewis College. This academic-year-long program is designed to prepare students for careers in the water field and connect them to opportunities. This includes attendance at water conferences, field trips, and monthly meetings that delve into critical topics such as water law, water quality, water careers, and one-water approaches encompassing graywater, stormwater, and recycled water. The emphasis on a broad, interdisciplinary understanding of water-related issues prepares the Water Fellows to navigate the complexities of the field. This approach ensures that the Water Fellows not only receive theoretical knowledge but also gain practical experience, enhancing their readiness for impactful contributions in the water sector.