Jennifer Aguirre, Wastewater Treatment Superintendent, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District
Each day, Jennifer Aguirre stands on the frontlines of environmental protection, taking great pride in that responsibility. She serves as superintendent of the 7.2 mgd Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District treatment facility in Lake Elsinore and oversees its 415-mile-long sewer system. Holding SWRCB Grade V certification, she manages a team of 12 operators and plays a key role in two multi-million-dollar water reclamation facility construction projects.
She also leads a robust lake management program and is deeply involved in preserving wetlands, critical ecosystems that provide both natural water filtration and vital habitats for wildlife.
Aguirre proudly calls herself a “Chingona”—a strong, unstoppable woman who leads with heart, breaks down barriers, and never stops learning.
“But being a Chingona isn’t just about strength,” she says. “It’s about lifting others as you climb, showing up with integrity, and turning every challenge into an opportunity for growth. It means owning your space in the room—even when you’re the only woman there—and using your voice to make sure others are heard too.”
In 2013, Aguirre entered the field of wastewater treatment as an unpaid Operator-in-Training (OIT) at the San Bernardino Municipal Water Department. At the time, she was pursuing college courses and came across the opportunity through her school. With zero pay but 100% dedication, Aguirre showed up every day ready to learn—ready to get her hands dirty, both literally and figuratively, in a field few people understand but everyone relies on.
Aguirre’s hard work and impact have earned her several honors.
“Her award-winning approach to hazardous materials handling and her innovative strategies have not only enhanced operational efficiency but also created a positive safety culture within her team,” says Beatriz Cornejo, EVMWD community affairs specialist. “She was awarded EVMWD’s Safety Person of the Year in 2023 and received the prestigious H.R. LaBounty Safety Award in 2024. These accolades highlight her commitment to reducing warehouse hazards and improving team safety.”
Her passion extends to the people in the industry—and to those who haven’t yet discovered the often-overlooked world of wastewater treatment. Inspired by her own journey, she’s made it her mission to introduce others to this essential field and guide them through it.
Through events like EVMWD’s annual community gatherings, which showcase various aspects of the water district, such as Splash Into Summer, Bring Your Child to Work Day, and educational plant tours, she is helping people understand that wastewater treatment isn’t just a gross afterthought—it’s cutting-edge science, essential infrastructure, and a surprisingly fulfilling career path, explains Cornejo.
“Let’s be real,” Aguirre says, “ wastewater work is more than fishing turds out of water. It’s about protecting public health, preserving the environment, and doing work that matters.
“Whether you’re male, female, young, straight out of high school, or looking for a career change, you can thrive in any field. You don’t need to fit a mold. You just need the mindset, the support, and maybe a good pair of waterproof boots.”
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