Event: Cranfield Water Network Summer Event – IWA Young Water Professionals Pitch Session

Date: June 2023

Location: Cranfield University, UK

Type of CPD: Event hosting / innovation leadership / mentoring early‑career professionals

Duration: Half‑day event (host + participant)

Summary of the Event

I took part in the Cranfield Water Network Summer Event 2023, a gathering that brings together researchers, early‑career professionals, academics and industry leaders to explore emerging ideas in water science, technology and policy.

I was invited to host the IWA Young Water Professionals Pitch Session, a platform designed to showcase early‑stage research, novel technologies and innovative concepts from the next generation of water sector talent. The session formed a key part of Cranfield’s commitment to supporting innovation and strengthening links between academia and industry.

My role involved facilitating the pitches, engaging with presenters, providing constructive feedback and creating an environment that encouraged confidence, creativity and technical clarity.

My Contribution: Host of the IWA Pitch Session

Key responsibilities and contributions:

• Served as session host, introducing speakers, managing time and ensuring smooth delivery of presentations.
• Provided technical and strategic feedback to early‑career researchers on their innovation concepts.
• Encouraged presenters to articulate the practical impact of their work, including environmental, operational and societal benefits.
• Highlighted the importance of innovation pathways, including piloting, validation and commercialisation.
• Facilitated audience Q&A, promoting dialogue between industry, academia and young professionals.
• Represented industry perspectives, helping bridge the gap between research and real‑world application.

Key Themes Covered

Academic–industry collaboration Strengthening links between universities and the wider water sector.

Emerging water technologies Novel sensors, treatment processes, digital tools and modelling approaches.

Research‑to‑practice translation How early‑stage ideas can be developed into deployable solutions.

Innovation culture and capability building Supporting young professionals in communicating and advancing their work.

Environmental protection and sustainability Research aligned with climate resilience, water quality and resource efficiency.