The Water Environment Federation launched a new student chapter at Wichita State University to address issues that affect the quality of Kansas’ water and public health.
Kansas Water Environment Association is a technical and educational organization that focuses on ways to improve and preserve water quality in Kansas. The organization offers training and educational services to scientists and engineers.
“This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a new era for our organization,” President of the KWEA Alex Beck said. “The creation of this student chapter is not just a testament to the growth of interest in the water profession among young people, but also as a reflection of the collaborative spirit that defines our association and industry.”
President of the WEF WSU chapter, Shyanne Eckis, talked about the impact a group like this could have on WSU. Eckis is a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in environmental health engineering and a Water Science Communications fellow.
“I feel like everybody (in WEF) has very similar interests and very similar passions, and I wanted to continue to bridge the gap between industry and students here at WSU,” Eckis said.
WEF is a group for students to gain professional experience in water and environmental sectors, but it is also open to anyone who wants to be involved in environmental sustainability in Kansas.
“We’re creating a pipeline of skilled professionals who will help lead the way in addressing the critical water issues of our time,” Beck said. “These students will be at the forefront of driving change and making a difference in our water environment.”
The student chapter of WEF is also going to work with the Young Professionals Committee, which focuses on helping students communicate with professionals in certain industries. For WEF specifically, YPC will help students develop their careers in sustainability.
Representative for YPC Jennifer Salvo said that YPC encourages students in WEF to use their resources for connecting with professionals. Not only will students be able to help students start their careers, Salvo said, but they’ll also “help with the education and promote the health of water in Kansas.”
Eckis said that this group will help give students opportunities for professional development through guest speakers, field trips and networking with community members that share similar passions.
“I think it’s important because a lot of the time, students get kind of bored in the classroom, and they want to see where they’re going to apply their studies,” Eckis said. “In a group like this, you’re getting first-hand experience.”
All WSU students can join the student chapter, and general meetings and activities will start at the beginning of the fall semester.
