Why Membership Counts

By Annabel Martinez, CWEA Director of Member Services, Announcements

Anabel Martinez, MBA, PMP Director of Member Services

Your CWEA membership is about unlocking resources, tools, and connections that help you grow, stay informed, and feel supported in your career. Beyond the certifications, events, and newsletters you already know, there’s a growing list of opportunities and often overlooked perks designed to help you get the most from your membership. Here’s what’s new, old and sometimes overlooked.

We want to make sure you are informed and connected.

With new virtual learning series and on-demand webinars available through OWEN, accessing training is more convenient than ever. Explore over 100 online courses led by industry experts including certification prep, and opportunities to earn CWEA and SWRCB contact hours.

If you’re looking to connect with peers, CWEA’s local sections have a variety of events like networking mixers giving you more chances to meet professionals across the state and share insights directly. Did you know you can attend events outside your local section? For example, you might work in one local section’s area but live in another, attending events in both allows you to build a broader professional network, access more training opportunities, and stay connected. It’s a great way to maximize the value of your membership and stay engaged no matter where your home or job is located.

What are some of the often overlooked perks?

Your membership also gives you access to our California Water Job boards, where employers specifically seek CWEA-certified professionals, a huge advantage in a competitive job market.

The CWEA Community is your go to space to instantly connect with over 10,000 water professionals across California. Whether you’re troubleshooting an issue, looking for advice, or sharing resources, it’s a great way to tap into collective knowledge and get input from peers who understand your work. community.cwea.org

Another overlooked benefit is volunteering. Serving on a committee or helping at the local section isn’t just about giving back; it’s a way to build leadership skills, expand your network, and even add experience to your resume. Many members have found their next job or career advancement opportunities simply by being active volunteers.

Your membership is a toolkit for building your career, staying connected, and staying on top of our fast-moving industry. Don’t let the perks sit unused. Explore them, use them, and let your membership work for you!