Jane Hurley
Central Arkansas Water
Education Outreach Specialist
CURRENT WORK
This summer, I led a two-day educational experience for middle school students of CAW employees, helping them explore where their water comes “from forest to faucet.” We hiked Bufflehead Bay, boated on Lake Maumelle, and toured a water treatment plant. Along the way, they learned how CAW manages and protects our water resources. It was rewarding to see them fully engaged – having fun while learning about environmental stewardship.
BEGINNING INTERESTS
I was working in a technical role at one of CAW’s water treatment plants when our current CEO, Tad Bohannon, recognized the need for a dedicated education and outreach position. He saw potential in me to step into that role, and in 2016, I accepted the challenge and hit the ground running. That opportunity opened the door to a career I’ve come to love – one where I get to connect people to the science and value of water every day.
LOVE THE WORK
It’s all about connecting people and science! I get to work with a wide range of individuals – water industry professionals, community leaders, educators, students, and everyday citizens. I enjoy translating complex topics into experiences and conversations that build understanding and strengthen their connection to water and the environment.
SURPRISING BUT TRUE
So much creativity exists in STEAM fields. I used to think I wasn’t creative because I wasn’t artistic or crafty. But in my current role, I’ve discovered that creativity comes in many forms – like designing engaging, meaningful learning experiences. It’s about solving problems, thinking differently, and making complex ideas accessible and fun. That’s creativity, too.
ADVICE
You don’t have to be a straight-A student to succeed in STEAM – but you do need to show up, stay curious and keep working. I earned my chemistry degree through consistency and effort, not perfection. I went to class, took notes, joined study groups and never missed a lab.
