American Water Named No.1 Utilities Employer for Second Year, Surveying 217,000+
American Water ranked No.1 in the water and wastewater utilities sector on Forbes' 2026 Best Employers for Company Culture list for the second straight year, based on surveys of over 217,000 employees. The company runs programs like Future Wavemakers internships and Water UP! training to develop industry talent.
1. Recognition Details
American Water secured the top position in the water and wastewater utilities category on the 2026 Best Employers for Company Culture list for the second consecutive year. This marks back-to-back wins reflecting the company’s emphasis on a supportive and growth-oriented workplace environment.
2. Ranking Methodology
The ranking drew on survey data from more than 217,000 full- and part-time employees, personal evaluations from industry peers and respondents’ networks, and analysis of culture-related performance indicators. These combined inputs determined American Water’s leading score in its sector.
3. Workforce Initiatives
The company invests in multiple talent-development programs, including the Future Wavemakers College Internship, Flow Forward multi-day youth camp, Water UP! adult training series and train-to-hire partnerships such as the Hopeworks GIS initiative. These efforts aim to build technical, operational and leadership skills across its workforce.
4. Operational Footprint
With regulated operations in 14 states and service to roughly 14 million customers, American Water employs about 7,000 professionals. The sustained focus on culture and training is designed to bolster retention, operational excellence and community impact across its service areas.