Message from the Chair

Growing Through Service: Why Mentorship Matters in CSWEA and the Water Industry

By Joe Lapastora

One of the things I value most about working in the water industry is that leadership
rarely happens in isolation. It grows through service, relationships, and the willingness of others to invest their time and experience in you along the way. As I reflect on my own journey, I can say with confidence that much of my growth within CSWEA has been shaped by the encouragement, mentorship, and trust of members who took the time to guide me early in my career.

Today, I have the privilege of serving as CSWEA Illinois Section Chair, WEF SYPC 2nd Vice Chair, and Co-Chair of Global Water Stewardship. Each of these roles has given me a different perspective on service and leadership, but they all share a common
purpose: supporting the people, partnerships, and progress that move our industry forward. Whether the work is local, national, or global in scope, I continue to be inspired by the professionals who give their time to strengthen our organizations and create
opportunities for others.

My involvement and growth within CSWEA did not happen by accident. Early in my career, experienced CSWEA members (henceforth referred to as “seasoned professionals”) welcomed me, encouraged me to get involved, and showed me that there was room to contribute, learn, and lead within our wonderful member association. Their mentorship was instrumental in helping me build confidence, understand the value of professional service, and recognize that leadership is not about a title—it is about showing up, participating, and helping others succeed. Those early conversations, invitations, and words of encouragement had a lasting impact on me, and they continue to shape how I approach my own role in this profession today.

That is why I believe so strongly that all industry professionals in the Illinois Section should take young professionals and new CSWEA members under their wings to provide mentorship and offload knowledge. The future of our industry depends on more than technical knowledge; it depends on our willingness to share experience, offer guidance, and make space for the next generation to grow. A simple invitation to attend a meeting, serve on a committee, ask questions, or speak up can make a lasting
difference in someone’s career. Mentorship does not have to be formal to be meaningful. Sometimes, the most important thing we can do is help someone feel that they belong and that their voice matters.

I am grateful for the mentors who helped shape my path, and I see mentorship as one of the most important ways we can give back to this profession. If we want to build strong future leaders within the water industry and within CSWEA, we need to be intentional about developing them now. By investing in young professionals and new members, we are not only supporting individual growth—we are strengthening the future of our organizations, our communities, and our industry as a whole.

I look forward to my upcoming term as IL Section Chair and I plan to lead under the same principle my parents have instilled in me; I intend to leave the IL State section in a better place than when I took the reigns! With our supporting cast and the leadership of our state section committees, I am confident we can achieve this. Cheers to a wonderful year ahead!