Event: Cranfield Water Network Annual Event – IWA Young Water Professionals Pitch Sessions

Date: October 2022

Location: Cranfield University, UK

Type of CPD: Event hosting / innovation leadership / mentoring and sector engagement

Duration: Half‑day event (host + participant)

Summary of the Event

I took part in the Cranfield Water Network Annual Event in October 2022, a gathering that brings together researchers, early‑career professionals, industry leaders and innovators to explore emerging ideas in water science, technology and policy.

I was invited to host the IWA Pitch Sessions, a platform designed to showcase early‑stage research, new technologies and innovative concepts from young water professionals. The session formed part of the wider Cranfield Water Network programme, which promotes collaboration between academia and industry.

My role involved facilitating the pitches, engaging with presenters, providing feedback and helping create an environment that encouraged creativity, confidence and constructive discussion.

My Contribution: Host of the IWA Pitch Sessions

Key responsibilities and contributions:

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

Sustainability and environmental protection Research aligned with climate resilience, water quality and resource efficiency.