For students and young professionals, WEFTEC is more than a place to learn about what’s happening across the water sector. It’s an opportunity to meet future employers, build relationships with peers and experienced professionals, discover ways to get involved in the water community, and start shaping the career you want.
From the Students and Young Professionals Career Fair to networking, volunteer opportunities, community meetings, and some of WEFTEC’s favorite social events, there are plenty of ways to connect before and throughout WEFTEC 2026 in New Orleans.
“WEFTEC is where students and young professionals can kickstart their volunteer journey. It’s the best place to make networking connections, build your knowledge base, and learn about all the opportunities to get involved,” said Jack Connors, WEF’s Director of Community Engagement – Operations.
Put Your Resume in Front of Water Sector Employers
The WEFTEC Career Fair for Students and Young Professionals connects job seekers with employers across the water sector who are looking to meet emerging professionals and new graduates.
The Career Fair takes place Monday, September 28, from 1–4 p.m. at Booth 151 in Great Hall D, with entrance at Exhibit Hall B1.
Job seekers can connect directly with hiring companies, learn about career opportunities across the sector, expand their professional networks, and take advantage of private interview booth space available for same-day interviews.
Planning to attend? Submit your resume by Sunday, September 6 to give participating employers an opportunity to get to know you before the Career Fair. Job seekers who submit a resume in advance will also receive a complimentary boxed lunch just before the fair begins.
Start Connecting Before WEFTEC
Pre-WEFTEC Webinar: Advancing Sustainability and Resilience in the Water Sector
Thursday, September 10 | 45 minutes | Online
Students and young professionals are encouraged to join WEF and Xylem for a conversation about sustainability, resilience, innovation, and workforce development, along with a preview of sustainability programming coming to WEFTEC.
As a bonus, all webcast registrants will be automatically entered to win two tickets to Jammin’4Water.
WEF Sustainability Partner: Xylem
More Ways to Connect at WEFTEC
Unless otherwise noted, the following events take place at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
WaterPalooza
Friday, September 25 | 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Pierre Capdau STEAM School
SOLD OUT — Volunteer capacity has been reached.
Community Service Project
Saturday, September 26 | 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
The NET: Gentilly School
SOLD OUT — Volunteer capacity has been reached.
Jammin’4Water
Saturday, September 26 | 6 p.m.–Midnight
Generations Hall
Kick off your WEFTEC experience with a night of live music, dancing, and connection at one of WEFTEC’s favorite after-hours traditions. Jammin’4Water brings the water community together while supporting global water, sanitation, and hygiene charities.
You must be 21 or older to enter.
Student Design Competition
Sunday, September 27 | 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Rooms 271, 279, and 281
Cheer on students as they produce and present written and verbal design projects in this annual competition. The competition concludes with an awards ceremony and light fare.
Students and Young Professionals Reception
Sunday, September 27 | 7–9 p.m.
JAMNOLA
940 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Enjoy beverages, appetizers, and conversation with fellow students and young professionals. Attendees will be asked for ID before being served alcohol and must have a WEFTEC badge for entry. Soft drinks are also available.
Sponsored by Schneider Electric
Student Chapter Meeting
Monday, September 28 | 10–11 a.m.
Room 221
Network with other student chapters, share ideas, and learn how WEF can support you as you begin your professional career through the Student Activities Community, a subcommunity of the WEF Students & Young Professionals Community.
Students & Young Professionals Community Meeting
Monday, September 28 | 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Room 221
Young professionals, students, academics, and Member Association leaders are invited to this annual WEFTEC meeting. Join the conversation and help shape future WEFTEC programs for students and young professionals.
Young Professionals Transition Panel
Monday, September 28 | 1–2 p.m.
WEF Community Hub, Booth 6322 in Hall G
Hear from volunteer leaders and senior young professionals about the benefits of community involvement and discover pathways for beginning or expanding your volunteer journey with WEF.
Young Professional Community Engagement Fair
Monday, September 28 | 2–3:30 p.m.
WEF Community Hub, Booth 6322 in Hall G
Meet community representatives, learn more about their work, and find ways to get involved right away.
Not Yet Registered? There’s Still Time.
There’s still time to make WEFTEC 2026 part of your plans.
WEF student members can register for WEFTEC at no cost. For student nonmembers, Expo Only registration is available for $155 at the current rate.
Young professional members can register for the Full Conference & Expo for $855 at the current rate. YP Members who prefer an Expo Only registration can attend for $275. Young professionals who are not WEF members can register at the current nonmember rates of $1,785 for Full Conference & Expo or $375 for Expo Only.
Not yet a member or need to renew? Join or renew your WEF membership before registering to access eligible member rates.
Full Conference & Expo and Expo Only options make it possible to choose the WEFTEC experience that works best for you.
Whether you’re searching for your first role in water, looking to build your network, or ready to become more involved in the water community, WEFTEC offers opportunities to make connections that can continue well beyond New Orleans.