Engineers work with students at Alfredo Andrews Elementary School on interactive water activities. Top right: Fordham McElroy, Engineering Technician III, demonstrates a gravity-fed water system. Bottom right: Matthias Clarke, Mechanical Engineer II, guides students through a water pipe activity challenge.
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (February 26, 2026) – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) proudly celebrated National Engineering Week with its Engineers Summit, held on February 25, 2026. The summit brought together the Authority’s engineering professionals under the theme, One Engineering Team. One WAPA., to recognize their critical role as problem-solvers and change leaders within the organization.
The purpose of the summit was to honor WAPA’s engineers for their expertise, innovation, and dedication, while encouraging them to remain at the forefront of addressing operational challenges and driving transformation across the Authority. The collaborative session created space for open dialogue, idea-sharing, and forward-thinking discussions focused on continuous improvement and sustainable growth.
Engineers engaged in meaningful conversations about strengthening team structures, enhancing collaboration, and fully leveraging their skills and experience to advance WAPA’s strategic priorities.
“It was my pleasure to spend the most rewarding part of my day with WAPA’s robust and agile team of engineers,” said Lemuel Lavinier, Chief Operating Officer of Electric. “What our engineers do today matters at WAPA—contributing directly towards our mission which is delivering reliable electricity and safe water to the community.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
Building on the momentum of the Engineers Summit, WAPA extended its commitment to innovation and problem-solving to the next generation. Today, February 26, 2026, the Authority hosted an outreach event on St. Croix at the Alfredo Andrews Elementary School, engaging 44 elementary students in grades 3 through 6 in hands-on STEM activities.
WAPA engineers, alongside the Communications Team, introduced students to the exciting world of engineering. The session began with a simple yet powerful explanation: “Engineers are problem-solvers who build things that help people.”
The interactive session featured engaging questions and hands-on engineering challenges designed to spark creativity and critical thinking. In one activity, students constructed and repaired water pipes, learning how problem-solving skills are applied to maintaining reliable water service.
In another demonstration, students explored how gravity-fed water tanks deliver water to homes at different elevations. Engineers showed how height and gravity influence water pressure, helping students understand why elevation plays an important role in water distribution systems across the territory.
By connecting with students and highlighting real-world applications of engineering, WAPA reinforced its commitment not only to strengthening its internal team, but also to preparing the next generation of innovators in the Virgin Islands.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.