Think about how many people you know who wake up every morning, maybe make a cup of coffee, and prepare for their 9-to-5 jobs. Here are some stats to put it into perspective: The U.S. workforce consists of millions of people. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women made up 47% of the workforce as of March 2025. However, when looking at the water industry specifically, the story is different. Only 14.9% of workers in that field are women, according to a 2016 study from Brookings. That represents only a fraction of the workers keeping water flowing to our homes, ahead of International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting some of the hardworking women at Raleigh Water who are paving the way for future generations.
The women in Raleigh Water are influential in all parts of the water from water distribution, sewer maintenance, at wastewater treatment plants, testing water in the laboratories, finance, human relations, administration, engineers, planners and beyond. Everyone's got their own story and reasons for getting into the water industry, plus what keeps them motivated in their current careers. We asked them a few questions to get the insider scoop from the pros:
Why are you passionate about working in the water industry?
"I’m passionate about my role in the water industry because it gives me the chance to protect public health every day. Whether I’m helping customers understand their water, responding to concerns like lead and copper, or ensuring reliable lab testing, my work helps strengthen trust and confidence in the water people rely on." - Amy Hamilton
"We need water to survive. That means, clean water is a necessity to maintain our health and routines. Without our Raleigh Water departments working together, our customers would not get the quality water and service that we present every day, and I take pride in being part of that team." - Jodaris Diaz-Hernandez
"My background is in environmental science, and I’ve always been driven by a desire to protect and preserve our natural resources. Water is finite, essential to life, and foundational to thriving communities and economies. It sustains ecosystems, supports public health, and fuels economic vitality. Working in the water industry allows me to live at the intersection of people, the planet, and prosperity, ensuring environmental stewardship while delivering essential services that communities depend on every single day. There is something incredibly meaningful about contributing to an industry that safeguards both our environment and our collective future." - Kathleen Jordan
"I am passionate about working in the water industry because it is universal to everyone. I get to work to provide an essential need to the community and it feels great to be able to contribute." - Sophie Jones
"Water is important for everyone’s survival. Working behind the scenes to provide safe, palatable drinking water and fire-flow protection is a humble opportunity to serve." - Catherine Willis
"When I’m asked why I’m passionate about working in the water industry, my answer has always been the same. Without water, civilization cannot exist—and without clean water, it cannot thrive. That belief grounds everything I do. The work we do in this industry impacts people’s lives every single day, often in ways that go unseen but are absolutely essential. Providing clean, reliable water and wastewater services protects public health, safeguards the environment, and strengthens the resilience of our communities. Knowing that my work plays a role in something so fundamental, supporting not just today’s needs, but future generations, gives my career deep purpose. The water industry allows me to lead through service, solve complex problems, and contribute to something bigger than myself. It’s meaningful work, and it’s work I’m incredibly proud to be part of." - Carla Meadows
What advice would you give your younger self about your career today?
"I would tell my younger self- You are a warrior. You are a survivor. You have purpose. You are deeply loved, and you absolutely belong. Every dream that God placed in your spirit is achievable. The path to your success will not be linear, it will curve. But those curves will not break you; they will shape you. They will build your resilience, strengthen your faith, and expand your vision for not only for what lies ahead, but for what surrounds you." - Martesa Webb
"Find a career that gives you a future, good benefits, job security, and any opportunities you are willing to strive for. Pay attention every day and learn something new whenever you get the chance." - Catherine Willis
"Take a local government management class and pursue your interests in the public sector sooner. Have more confidence in your interests. What’s the point of money if you’re unhappy?" - Sophie Jones
"I would tell my younger self that there is no single 'right' path. Everyone on this planet is experiencing life for the first time. There’s no handbook, no universal formula for success. For a long time, I allowed conventional definitions of practicality and prestige to shape my decisions. I was discouraged from pursuing my passions because they weren’t seen as traditional or secure. In doing so, I lost time trying to fit into a mold that was never meant for me. I would tell her: Honor who you are. Trust what excites you. The path may not look conventional, but it will be yours, and that makes all the difference. Don’t let anyone else define your potential." - Kathleen Jordan
"I would advise my younger self to accept change. Things do not always go as planned, but it does not have to. Life is not a straight line, and there are always opportunities to find in any situation that we find ourselves in." - Jodaris Diaz-Hernandez
"I would tell my younger self to trust my voice sooner and not wait for permission to lead. Confidence grows through action, not perfection. Speak up, take risks, and don’t shy away from challenges just because they feel uncomfortable. Every experience, especially the hard ones, builds resilience and clarity. Growth happens when you stop doubting yourself and start owning your value." - Carla Meadows
What advice would you give to other young women about building their careers and futures?
"My advice would be to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Depending on your field, you may often find yourself as “one of one” or “one of very few” women in the rooms you walk into, but do not let that deter you from pursuing your career or passion." - Cydney Terry
"Find what truly ignites your passion and pursue it with everything you have. No matter who or what stands in your way, refuse to be limited - break every ceiling, rise from every challenge, and keep pushing forward with confidence in your own strength and resilience. As Maya Angelou said, ‘We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated,’ let that be your reminder that your perseverance is the force that will carry you to places beyond your dreams." - Haley Page
"Don’t expect because you are a female to be given opportunities because your gender. Prove you belong because you are one of the best at it. People will depend on you, be capable simply because you are." - Catherine Willis
"Trust yourself more and follow where your aptitudes lead you. Don’t try to pursue goals that aren’t your own or compromise what you want for others. Advice is always great, but make your own decisions." - Sophie Jones
"Always shoot for the stars and give things a try. Only you get to decide what you can and cannot do, but first you have to try it to figure it out!" - Jodaris Diaz-Hernandez
"Own your voice early. You do not need to shrink yourself to make others comfortable, and you do not need to have everything figured out to take up space. Seek mentors, ask questions, and step into opportunities even when you don’t feel 100% ready. Growth rarely comes from waiting until you feel perfectly prepared. At the same time, stay grounded in your values. Skills can be developed; integrity and self-awareness are what sustain a career. Most importantly, define success on your own terms. Your career is not just about titles or accolades. It’s about building a life that aligns with your purpose, your passions, and your well-being." - Kathleen Jordan
"Believe in your ability before anyone else does. Be bold, stay curious, and don’t minimize your strengths to make others comfortable. Seek mentors, build strong networks, and advocate for yourself unapologetically. Your perspective matters, your voice belongs at the table, and your leadership is needed. Success doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to fully step into it." - Carla Meadows
Thank you for caring about our communities, our families, friends, getting clean and safe water to schools, churches and homes. Thank you for wanting a better future for our next generation. Thank you for inspiring others to chase their dreams and want to create a better Raleigh Water.
