The industrial water treatment industry is built on expertise, innovation, and collaboration, but like many technical fields, it has historically lacked women, especially in leadership roles. That’s one reason why the Association of Water Technologies (AWT) and the Women of Water (WOW) committee are so important.
At QualiChem Water Treatment, supporting Women of Water isn’t just about conference sponsorships or visibility. It’s about actively contributing to a community that encourages education, leadership, and connection for women working in water treatment every day.
What Is the Women of Water Committee?
Women of Water is an AWT-led initiative that supports women across the industrial water treatment industry through professional development, networking, and community-building. The group creates an environment for women at all career stages, from early-career scientists to experienced leaders, to share insights, learn from one another, and strengthen their presence within the space.
For many women in STEM roles, having access to a supportive peer network can be just as valuable as formal training. WOW helps bridge that gap by fostering conversations around leadership, career growth, and representation.
QualiChem’s Commitment to the Women of Water Community
QualiChem has been proud to support Women of Water both organizationally and through the involvement of its team members. At the most recent AWT Convention, QualiChem sponsored the Women of Water reception, an event that brought together professionals from across the industry to connect, celebrate progress, and give back.
During the reception, attendees participated in a charity auction that raised funds for World Vision’s WASH initiatives, which work to expand access to safe water and sanitation around the globe. While the fundraiser added a celebratory note to the evening, it also reflected a shared commitment to water stewardship that extends far beyond the conference floor.
Leadership, Involvement, and Representation
One of the strongest examples of QualiChem’s ongoing commitment to Women of Water is the involvement of Athena Spencer, Scientist I at QualiChem Water Treatment. Athena serves on the AWT Women of Water committee as part of the webinar subgroup, helping shape educational programming for members throughout the year.
Over the past year, Athena played a role in bringing a book talk to AWT members that centered on women in leadership, creating space for discussion around career growth, challenges, and opportunities within technical fields.
“Since 2013, Women of Water has grown to be a much larger community within AWT. The events are a great opportunity to network and connect with other women in the field.”
Athena’s involvement reflects a broader culture at QualiChem: one that values participation, professional development, and the voices of women in science and engineering roles.
What It’s Like to Be a Woman in Industrial Water Treatment
For many women in the field, industrial water treatment offers rewarding, impactful work—but navigating a technical industry can still come with challenges. Programs like Women of Water help normalize those conversations, offering support while also highlighting the expertise women bring to the table.
In an industry that has historically been male-dominated, it is really important to have groups that support and empower women, including opportunities for mentorship with other females. This helps women navigate nuances of the field that are best understood by other women.
By engaging in groups like Women of Water, women are not only building professional networks—they’re helping shape the future of the industry itself.
Looking Ahead
QualiChem is proud to support Women of Water and the broader AWT community through active participation and leadership. From educational initiatives to charitable efforts that advance global access to safe water, this work aligns closely with QualiChem’s values and mission.
As the industry continues to evolve, QualiChem remains committed to supporting the people and programs that move water treatment forward—today and for the future ahead.