Executive Director | Water Collaborative Delivery Association
“We are truly stronger together, and it is inspiring to see the work being done around the world to advance the role of women in water.”
A Unique Path into the Water Industry
Barbara Martin’s journey into water wasn’t linear, it began in music performance. After starting her academic career as a music major, she pivoted to chemistry, where graduate research on disinfection by-products introduced her to the world of drinking water treatment.
That research sparked something lasting. She fell in love with both the science and the community behind the industry. Nearly three decades later, she continues to serve the water sector with the same passion and purpose that first drew her in.
Leading Through Collaboration
Today, Barbara serves as Executive Director of the Water Collaborative Delivery Association, where she leads an organization focused on equipping utilities and industry partners with tools, knowledge, and strategies for collaborative project delivery.
Her role blends strategic leadership, team building, and mission-driven impact — helping utilities navigate increasingly complex infrastructure, regulatory, and funding challenges through partnership and innovation.
Community and Perspective Through CWiW
Barbara joined the Community of Women in Water (CWiW) five years ago. Since then, she credits the group with broadening her international perspective and deepening her appreciation for the work being done globally to elevate women in the water sector.
For Barbara, CWiW represents connection, solidarity, and a reminder that progress happens faster, and better, when women support one another.
Leadership Built on Teams and Communication
During her time as AWWA’s Director of Engineering and Technical Services, Barbara saw firsthand the power of exceptional teams and clear communication. That experience reinforced an important lesson: leaders must often make informed decisions with limited data while remaining open to piloting innovative approaches.
Strong leadership, in her view, is about empowering teams, communicating clearly, and creating space for thoughtful experimentation.
Facing Industry Challenges Together
Barbara sees infrastructure renewal, funding constraints, and evolving regulations as some of the most pressing challenges facing utilities today. Smaller systems in particular face technical and financial barriers that demand new approaches.
She believes collaboration, regionalization, and innovative delivery models will be essential in helping utilities meet these demands while maintaining public health and regulatory compliance.
Unlocking Innovation Through Culture
When it comes to innovation, Barbara believes culture is both the greatest barrier and the greatest opportunity. Because public health is at stake, utilities are understandably cautious about being first to try something new.
But strong internal champions, transparent communication, and strategic pilot programs can help shift mindsets and build confidence. Innovation, she believes, is less about technology alone and more about people, trust, and shared purpose.
Advice for the Next Generation
Barbara’s advice to those considering a career in water is refreshingly direct:
“Just do it.”
Water is essential to life. A career in this field is meaningful, impactful, and rooted in protecting the world’s most vital resource.