Camden-based American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the US, has been recognized on the Forbes 2026 list of America’s Best Employers for Company Culture.
This marks the second consecutive year Forbes has recognized American Water in this category, following its inclusion on the inaugural 2025 list.
“Being recognized for our company culture is especially meaningful because it reflects how our employees experience American Water every day,” Lori Sutton, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, American Water, said in a release. “Our employees can grow, feel valued, and make an impact within our company.”
The company invests in initiatives that support employee development, strengthen connections across teams, and reinforce a shared commitment to operational excellence and community impact.
Among the annual training and development opportunities that American Water provides for its workforce are:
- Future Wavemakers College Internship Program: A cornerstone initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of water and wastewater industry leaders.
- Flow Forward: Offers high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors a multi-day summer camp featuring skill-building workshops, resume and interview preparation, and networking with industry professionals.
- Water UP! program: Providing hands-on training for adults in local communities and helping them identify and pursue careers in the water sector. Developed in partnership with Rowan College of South Jersey and hosted annually in different locations throughout New Jersey, Water UP!’s curriculum spans water treatment, distribution, safety and ethics, reflecting the range of skills required across the industry.
- Hopeworks partnership: Working with a Camden-based nonprofit on train-to-hire programs that have successfully engaged, trained, and employed young adults on geographic information system projects.
In April, American Water executive Suzanne Chiavari, senior director of engineering, was honored with the George Warren Fuller Award.
Presented by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), it is considered one of the water sector’s most prestigious accolades. It recognizes individuals for their distinguished service, leadership, and significant contributions to the advancement of water works practices.
