In this episode, I talk with Jennifer Brunton, PE, CFM, CERP, senior vice president of Water at WSP, about innovative water engineering strategies, advanced technologies, and collaborative efforts aimed at tackling the urgent challenge of water scarcity.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Jennifer:



How has water engineering become a key player in addressing today’s major challenges?

With issues like water scarcity, a seemingly finite problem, what creative solutions can engineers explore?

How are data and AI helping manage and predict infrastructure failures, like leaks, before they become major problems?

Where have you found strong communication skills to be most critical in defining solutions and getting work done?

What final piece of advice you would give to engineers working in water resources today?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Implement Water Engineering Strategies for a Sustainable Future:





Water engineering has moved from background roles to center stage, tackling critical issues like climate change, aging infrastructure, and population growth. With increased public support and funding, they now lead efforts to develop innovative solutions to these pressing challenges, making it an exciting time for the field.

Addressing water scarcity, especially in areas like the western U.S., involves establishing new water sources, using data to manage resources better, and reducing water loss through leak repairs. Public acceptance and strong communication are vital to moving these solutions forward and gaining the trust needed to implement them effectively.

Data and AI allow engineers to move from a reactive to a proactive approach, predicting and prioritizing repairs to prevent issues before they escalate. This shift conserves resources, reduces disruptions, and enables more strategic budget allocation, as seen in examples like Cape Town's “Day Zero” crisis, where real-time data helped mobilize public action.

Strong communication is essential in resilience projects, especially when engaging vulnerable communities after a crisis. In water engineering, engineers must actively listen, confirm understanding, and navigate both fixed and flexible project elements to build trust, ensure transparency, and work through complex challenges alongside stakeholders.

Engineers should remain curious, embracing learning and growth to adapt to the field’s rapid changes. Staying open to new perspectives and being comfortable with friction points are key to finding innovative solutions in a field that lacks a set playbook, allowing engineers to drive progress and tackle evolving challenges.



About Jennifer Brunton, PE, CFM, CERP

Jennifer Brunton, P.E., CFM, CERP, is a civil and environmental engineer dedicated to bringing diverse teams together to solve complex technical challenges that enhance both the natural and built environments. She believes the future depends on helping clients and communities build resilience. Her goal is to leave a lasting, positive impact on the planet, the teams she leads, and the clients she serves.

About the Host: K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E.

K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E., is a licensed professional engineer and an associate vice president at Verdantas, an emerging environmental, engineering, and technical consulting company with a green, sustainable, and people-first approach in the foreground. James has over 17 years of experience in civil engineering in the land development and municipal fields. Land development services include the design of subdivisions and site plans for compliance with local codes and ordinances, civil/site engineering, stormwater management, road design,