Fall 2026 Watermark: Strengthening Our Water Sector

Water touches every corner of the Canadian water sector, from delivering safe, reliable drinking water to protecting and managing our most precious resource. Yet behind every system, facility, and watershed are the people who make it all possible. As our workforce evolves, important questions emerge: Who makes up our water community? How do we attract, develop, and retain the talent our sector needs? And what actions should we take to build a strong, sustainable workforce for the future?

In this issue, we explore these questions from multiple perspectives. Members continue to identify workforce challenges, including retirements, knowledge transfer, recruitment, and training, as some of the most pressing issues facing the water sector in BC and the Yukon. We also examine the broader picture of workforce development, from leadership and accountability in the workplace to creating clear career pathways and expanding opportunities for the next generation of water professionals. Together, these stories highlight both the challenges and the possibilities that lie ahead for our sector.

Read the full issue of Watermark. BCWWA members also receive a print edition of Watermark, so check your mailbox!

In this issue:

At the Core of Community: An Interview with Keith Kohut

A dedicated BCWWA volunteer for more than 15 years, Keith Kohut has worn many hats within the Association, from chairing the Drinking Water Committee and sitting as a Board Director to, most recently, receiving recognition for his contributions with the 5S: Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers Award and George Warren Fuller Award. We spoke with Keith to discuss his journey with BCWWA, how volunteering has shaped his career and leadership development and why he believes building strong communities remains critical to the future of the water sector.

I Messed Up – Now What? Navigating Accountability in Operations

With 12 years of experience in water and wastewater operations across a variety of roles, Darcy Dion knows firsthand what it takes to succeed as an operator. In this article, she shares key lessons learned throughout her career, reflecting on both successes and setbacks in the water industry. While mistakes are inevitable and accountability is essential, Darcy emphasizes that challenges also present valuable opportunities for growth. By learning from failure, building confidence and continually developing our skills, we can strengthen our careers and become more effective water professionals.

What We Heard: Results of BCWWA’s 2025 Annual Survey

In spring of 2026, the BCWWA launched a revised Annual Survey to answer the question: ” how can the BCWWA continue to deliver value and better support those who engage with our organization?” This article shares the findings, themes and insights gathered from the survey and how it will inform BCWWA’s programs and services.

Survey Outcomes: Dealing with Drought: A Handbook for Water Suppliers

Earlier this spring, the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship shared a survey to assess the Dealing with Drought: A Handbook for Water Suppliers (the ‘Drought Handbook’). This article shares a summary of what the Ministry heard from respondents and shares the next steps for the Drought Handbook.

Watermark magazine is BCWWA’s quarterly magazine and member resource curated to keep water professionals up to date on the latest industry news, research, professional development and best practices. If you would like to pitch an article or receive a print issue, get in touch with us at communication@bcwwa.org.