Shawn Spromberg (left) and Jerry Barajas – Photo by Audrey McCann
Gilbert G. Barela, MT, CSM, EIT, MSML, MBA, Jurupa Community Service District, CWEA President
As we reflect on this year’s Member Value Report, I am reminded of the enduring importance of professional associations like ours. CWEA, founded in 1928, has been a faithful advocate for California’s wastewater community, evolving with the times while staying true to our core mission: advancing the knowledge, design, operation, and management of sewage works.
Our history is more than just a series of milestones; it’s a story of collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment. From our earliest days, when leading wastewater experts in California resolved to create an organization that would foster the exchange of information and experiences, CWEA has grown into a vibrant, dynamic community of professionals dedicated to ensuring a sustainable water future.
This year’s Member Value Report is a testament to that growth. We’ve seen record-breaking attendance at our educational events, a surge in certification achievements, and a deepening of our advocacy efforts. These accomplishments are not just numbers—they represent the real, tangible value that CWEA provides to its members and the broader community.
One of the most significant aspects of CWEA is the sense of family and camaraderie that permeates our organization. We are more than just colleagues; we are a community that genuinely cares about and supports one another. This connection is especially evident in our Local Sections, where members forge lasting relationships, share knowledge, and collaborate on local training initiatives. These local connections are the bedrock of our organization, helping to ensure that CWEA remains relevant and responsive to the needs of all our members.
Looking to the future, we are poised to continue this tradition of excellence. The wastewater industry is at a critical juncture, facing challenges that range from technological disruptions to the impacts of climate change. But with challenges come opportunities. As we navigate these changes, CWEA will continue to be at the forefront, providing the tools, resources, and support our members need to succeed.
Our upcoming Annual Conference in Palm Springs, themed “Waves of Change,” will be a focal point for these discussions. I encourage you to join us as we explore the future of our industry, from the role of AI in wastewater management to the critical importance of diversity and inclusion. Special attention will be given to our Collection Systems community, a vital segment of our membership that plays a key role in protecting public health and the environment. Additionally, we’ll highlight the incredible work being done by Women Impacting Water, an initiative that underscores CWEA’s commitment to supporting women in our field.
Left to right: Kaitlin Gellerman, Stephanie Douglass, and Roya Yousefelahiyeh
As we move forward, it’s important to remember that CWEA’s strength lies in its members. You are the driving force behind our success. Whether you’re attending a Local Section meeting, participating in a certification program, or joining us at the Annual Conference, your involvement makes a difference. Together, we are champions for California’s wastewater community, and together, we will continue to build a brighter, more sustainable future.
Thank you for your dedication and passion. It is an honor to serve as your President, and I look forward to what we will accomplish together.
My Profile
