The Water Institute is pleased to announce the launch of its 2024-25 WaterLeadership program.

Established in 2020, WaterLeadership cultivates future water champions through the development of skills in knowledge mobilization, research communication, leadership and innovation. Participants gain practical strategies and tips that enhance the impact of their research through clear writing, engaging presentations, and effective message development.

Nancy Goucher

"The WaterLeadership program has been incredibly successful, offering a convenient and impactful way for students to develop essential skills for a career in water. Past participants described the program as motivating, valuable, and highly applicable. I strongly encourage students to seize this opportunity ," says program developer Nancy Goucher.

Training sessions for this year will cover topics designed around three “pillars” of learning:

  • Knowledge mobilization and strategic planning skills: Learn how knowledge mobilization strategies and tools can increase the credibility, salience and legitimacy of your work, thereby accelerating the impact of water research.
     
  • Research communication: Develop techniques for powerful communication that connect and resonate with targeted academic and non-academic audiences. Boost your career with these highly transferable skills in clear writing, engaging presentations, and key message development.
     
  • Innovation and leadership in the water sector: Discover and develop your natural strengths. Learn how to use your talents, technical skills, and knowledge to launch a career where you inspire and create innovative solutions for complex water challenges.
     

Earn a WaterLeadership Certificate

Waterloo students and post-doctoral researchers can sign up for individual workshops or complete the entire program to earn the WaterLeadership Certificate. To qualify for the certificate, participants must:

  • Attend the four workshops
  • Complete the four short assignments associated with each workshop
     

Module Schedule

Title

Date and Time

Location

Presenter

Knowledge Mobilization 101

September 17
12:00 – 1:30

UTD 164

Nancy Goucher, Knowledge Mobilization Specialist,
Water Institute

Sharing Science: Effective presentations

October 15
12:00 – 1:30

UTD 164

Elise Vist, Workshops and Integrated Programs Coordinator,
Writing and Communication Centre

Sharing Science: Clear language writing

January 14
12:00 – 1:30

TBD

Emma Dunn, Writing and Communication Advisor,
Writing and Communication Centre

Leverage Your Strengths to Grow Your Water Career

March 4
12:00 – 2:00

TBD

Representative from
Organizational and Human Development

Learn more and register.