Strengthening Collaboration

Hi there BAYWORK followers,
 
For those of you I haven’t met yet, my name is Laura Combs. I stepped into the BAYWORK Manager role in late September after spending more than a decade working in community social services, including workforce development, housing, and mental health.
As I reflect on my first few months here, I’ve realized a couple of things about this industry that I never would have expected in my previous roles.
 
First, the water and wastewater industry is filled with truly dedicated people. I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t genuinely care about the work they do. That level of passion is incredibly refreshing and has made my experience with BAYWORK stand out from any other industry I’ve worked in.

Second, this industry truly embodies collaboration. While many fields value partnership, I’ve seen that the water industry depends on it in a unique way. Public agencies, private agencies, schools, coalitions, and nonprofits are all working toward the same goal: protecting clean water for generations to come. That shared mission makes collaboration not just beneficial, but essential.

With these reflections in mind—and looking ahead to 2026—I’m excited to share two main goals for BAYWORK in the new year.

Bringing in more dedicated people.
As many professionals retire, this industry needs the next generation ready to step in. That means meeting people where they are and showing them why this field might be the right fit. This could include more targeted outreach through social media, starting conversations earlier with high school–age students, and expanding internship opportunities within our existing network.

Strengthening collaboration.
We want to continue building strong partnerships with our signatories, local colleges, and other organizations. Sustainability needs are constantly evolving, and staying informed requires open, frequent conversations about what’s happening across the industry. In the coming year, I’m hoping to help bring these experts together and keep those conversations going.

Sesa (our BAYWORK Coordinator) and I can’t do this alone—we need your support. There are many ways to get involved in 2026, but here are a few key opportunities:

  • Host an intern in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027. Let’s start these conversations now. We know approvals can take time, and the sooner we begin, the more emerging professionals we can support.
  • Represent BAYWORK at an event. Signatories are welcome to use our materials and talk about BAYWORK at events you’re already attending—job fairs, college fairs, internal agency events, or conferences.
  • Stay connected. Follow us on social media, share what we’re doing, and reach out anytime at info@baywork.org. Collaboration is the foundation of this work, and staying in touch helps keep it strong.

Let’s make 2026 the year of water. Talk soon,

Laura Combs
BAYWORK Manager
laura.combs@baywork.org

To connect with Laura on LinkedIn, click here.

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