Feb 26, 2026
Women Leading Water Spotlight Series
The water industry is driven by individuals who care deeply about the work they do.
Our Women Leading Water Spotlight Series features women from the organizations supporting this initiative by sharing their journeys, reflections on leadership, and what being a woman in water means to them today.
We’re grateful to spotlight the voices and perspectives that help strengthen and support the water community. Join us to celebrate Women Leading Water this March at The Water Tower.
Meet Monica Pineda Guzman
Project Manager, Reeves Young
Can you share a bit about your journey and what led you to work in water?
Having spent my life around farming, a desk job was never in the cards for me. That natural draw toward hands-on work led me to construction, eventually falling into the water sector. While my start in the water industry was unexpected, I’ve grown to love the unique challenges and complex problem-solving it demands. Most of all, this journey has given me a deep respect and gratitude for the teams that keep our critical infrastructure alive.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing tangible, physical structures and systems take shape from drawings to reality, providing a lasting, visible impact on the community.
Why is celebrating women in water so important?
By bringing distinct perspectives, expertise, and critical soft skills to the table, women in this industry play a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity and strengthening project success.
What advice would you give to young women just joining the water industry?
Don’t limit yourself, get involved in the field/site work and learn from each trade and person that has come before you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, embrace curiosity and being comfortable in the uncomfortable.
We thank Monica and our Partner, Reeves Young, for supporting Women Leading Water and sharing their perspective with our community!
The Water Tower consists of two nonprofit organizations: The Water Tower at Gwinnett, a 501(c)4 – responsible for the development and operations of the campus, and The Water Tower Institute, a 501c3 – responsible for solutions, instruction, and engagement programming. Together, these entities are cultivating an ecosystem of water innovation fueled by imagination, informed by research, and powered by pioneers. The Water Tower brings together public and private sectors of the water industry, side by side with academia and nonprofits, to tackle the industry’s greatest challenges.