The categories below reflect those in use up to 2022. For the refreshed, 2023 award categories, click here.
People
Academic Leader: This award is given to an individual who has demonstrated leadership in the academic sector through their administration of water programs, involvement in the operation of water programming, research of water issues of national significance, and/or the teaching of students on the subject of water within an academic institution.
Business Leader: This award is presented to a person in the private sector who has demonstrated leadership in the Canadian water sector both inside and outside of their professional position.
Government Leader: This award is presented to a person in the public sector who has demonstrated significant leadership, innovation, and influence. This category includes municipalities, agencies, and First Nations governments. This award will not only evaluate the work done within the person’s profession, but also within the greater Canadian water community.
Non-Government Leader: This award is given to a person in the non-government sector that has demonstrated significant leadership, innovation, and influence in the water sector. These characteristics should be demonstrated through work completed both within their professional mandate, as well as in working with other leaders in the Canadian water sector.
Operator (Water/Wastewater): This award is given to an operator whose demonstrated leadership shows a commitment to going above and beyond the demands of the job.
Young Professional: This award is presented to a young professional in the water sector who has demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and growth potential. This category is open to both students working towards careers in the Canadian water sector, as well as those who are already working within the industry.
Projects & Technology
Drinking Water: This award is given to a project or technology that has significantly improved the quality of or access to reliable drinking water.
Early Adoption: This award is given for a new technology that has been adopted by a municipality, corporation, or institution and has potential for wider adoption.
Education and Outreach: This award is given to a municipality, academic institution, government, or non-government organization that has made significant strides in driving a new initiative forward that will provide tangible benefits for the Canadian water sector.
Stormwater: This award is given to a project or technology that has been undertaken or implemented to efficiently and effectively manage and treat stormwater in a municipal, commercial, or industrial setting.
Wastewater: This category recognizes a project or technology that manages and treats municipal or industrial wastewater, including non-point source pollution. Applicants that demonstrate effective resource recovery are also considered for this award.
Water Resources: Awarded to a project, technology, or innovation that aids in the protection of surface water, groundwater, and aquatic ecosystems.
Overall
Company/Organization of the Year: This award is presented to a company or organization that is leading the way in the water industry. The winner of this award is chosen from the finalists of the six awards in the Projects and Technology category.
Project of the Year: This award is presented to a project that has demonstrated significant value and excellence. The winner of this award is chosen from the finalists of the six awards in the Projects and Technology category.
Water Steward of the Year: This award is given to an individual whose exemplary leadership, innovation, and creativity is worthy of national recognition. The winner of this award is chosen from the finalists of the six awards in the People category.
