Laura Ramos is a highly respected water professional with more than two decades of experience dedicated to advancing water resource management through education, collaboration, and applied research. As the Director of Research and Education at the California Water Institute at California State University, Fresno, Laura leads strategic initiatives that bridge the gap between academic research and real-world implementation—helping communities across California, particularly in the San Joaquin Valley, navigate complex and evolving water challenges. In her current role, Laura oversees a diverse portfolio of programs focused on sustainable water management solutions for agricultural, urban, environmental, and disadvantaged community interests. Her work centers on engaging a wide range of stakeholders—including faculty, students, public agencies, water managers, and community leaders—to collaboratively address pressing water issues such as infrastructure reliability, water use efficiency, system consolidation, and long-term resource planning. With a strong belief that informed communities are empowered communities, Laura is deeply committed to “elevating the water IQ” through accessible education, outreach, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Laura’s leadership is defined by her ability to translate complex technical research into practical, actionable strategies. She has successfully facilitated partnerships between university researchers and local communities, forming multidisciplinary teams that deliver innovative, data-driven solutions. Her efforts have supported feasibility studies for consolidating small and disadvantaged water systems, advanced stakeholder engagement around critical infrastructure needs, and expanded access to technical assistance and training programs throughout the region. Prior to her current role, Laura served in several key leadership positions within the California Water Institute, including Interim Director and Associate Director of Research and Education, as well as Programs Manager. In these roles, she managed multiple large-scale programs and grants, while also overseeing marketing, operations, and strategic communications. Her ability to align programmatic goals with community needs has made her a trusted connector between academia and industry. Laura’s career began at the Center for Irrigation Technology at Fresno State, where she spent over 18 years as a Program Coordinator. There, she managed staff and mentored students, helping to prepare the next generation of water professionals for successful careers in the field. She also played a key role in organizing and executing dozens of national and international conferences, workshops, and training programs each year—building platforms for knowledge exchange and industry advancement. Her program experience spans a wide array of initiatives, including water use efficiency for specialty crops, fertigation training, watershed management education, disadvantaged communities technical assistance, and long-standing water policy and technology programs. Laura has also been instrumental in maintaining outreach channels, managing communications platforms, and representing her organization at industry events worldwide. At the core of Laura’s work is a passion for collaboration, education, and impact. She is continually seeking opportunities to identify water management challenges that can benefit from academic partnership and is driven by the belief that solutions are most effective when they are co-developed with the communities they serve. Laura holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in International Business from California State University, Fresno.More
