Making Water Sexy: A Collaborative Approach to Innovation and Technology

When it comes to advancing the water industry, protecting our communities, and recruiting the next generation of water workers, innovation and collaboration go hand in hand. With up to 50% of water workers retiring in the next 5-10 years, innovative technology is not only crucial to streamlining and improving treatment and processes for utilities, but also necessary to attract and engage the future water workforce.

The Water Tower, the new global water innovation hub northeast of Atlanta, Georgia, is breaking down traditional silos in the industry and bringing together utilities, universities, private industry, and NGOs under one roof to expedite implementation of innovative water and wastewater solutions. TWT offers resources including a living laboratory with live water process flows, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a network of water experts for the industry to conduct pilot testing and R&D. Hands-on training programs and technology demonstration days allow utilities to explore and operate innovative technologies firsthand.

Several innovative digital and physical technologies currently demonstrating their products at The Water Tower will be highlighted, including a smart septic system, smart hydrant, acoustic leak detection system, and more.

By forging powerful R&D collaborations, fostering economic development, and equipping water and wastewater utilities with the research and technology they need, The Water Tower strives to make a positive impact on the industry and our communities.