As is the case in many STEM-related fields, the water treatment industry has a gender gap in its workforce. According to Zippia, only 9% of water treatment workers are women. I think we can agree that those women who are a part of this industry are some of the most hard-working people and innovative minds anyone could ask for.
One of the clearest examples of female influence in water treatment is Bernadette Combs, President of the Industrial Water Engineering (IWE) – first female president of the Association of Water Technologies (AWT), and a true a trailblazer in the water treatment industry. Her career is punctuated by achievements and certifications, including a CWT and ASSE 12080 for Legionella Water Safety and Management, making her a leader not only in title, but in expertise.
Bernadette’s journey began with a mechanical engineering degree, focusing on aerospace. Despite the possibility of an exciting opportunity with Boeing, her passion for hands-on problem-solving drew her into the water treatment sector through summer internships at IWE, a company owned by her parents, Les and Pat Norman. This hands-on experience was a revelation for her, steering her toward industrial applications of thermodynamics involving heat exchange systems and boilers.
Her professional trajectory was set during a career assessment with water treatment company owners, where she realized her preference for fieldwork over a “desk job”. Starting as a Quality Manager at IWE, she oversaw auditing processes and managed customer relations, gradually expanding her responsibilities as the company evolved. Nepotism was not at play when it came to Bernadette’s trajectory. IWE prides itself on treating every employee like family, and Bernadette worked hard to get involved in all areas of the business, gain new skills, and work her way up from the ground level. When the time came for Les to pass the torch, Bernadette approached the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead with enthusiasm, grit, and her team’s full support.
Stepping Up as President
Bernadette’s presidency at IWE commenced about eight years ago and has now spanned more than a decade. Her influence is marked by continuous improvement and strategic rebranding, which was made necessary due to the retirement of key team members, along with needed infrastructure expansion. Bernadette’s leadership philosophy centers on growth and adaptability, ensuring her team remains rooted in the company’s foundational values while embracing necessary changes.
Under Bernadette’s leadership, IWE aims to save 1 billion gallons of water over the next decade, reflecting a commitment to innovation and sustainability. She emphasizes the importance of integrating smart technologies to enhance training and operations, while also maintaining a strong human element in interpreting and applying data effectively.
Advocacy for Women in Water Treatment
As a pioneer in a male-dominated field, Bernadette leverages her position to advocate for more women in the industry. She actively encourages women to engage with industry boards and take on visible roles, challenging the status quo and promoting inclusivity.
As a mother, Bernadette integrates family life with her professional role by involving her children in the company’s activities, fostering a culture of learning and volunteerism. She supports community outreach, understanding that exposing young people to the industry is crucial for its future. Her 10-year-old daughter even loves coming to the office and getting to work, right alongside her mom.
Bernadette’s story is not just about breaking barriers but also about setting new standards for leadership and commitment in the water treatment industry. Her multifaceted role as a leader, advocate, and innovator continues to inspire and shape the sector.
