Unlocking Georgia's Water Infrastructure: Judy Adler's Vision for Sustainable Solutions

Judy Adler, the Director of Water Resources at the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), is set to deliver the opening keynote at the 2024 Water Finance Conference in Buford, Georgia. As a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in water infrastructure and sustainability, Adler's insights promise to provide valuable guidance to conference attendees on the challenges and opportunities facing Georgia's water systems.

Empowering Georgia's Water Future: Adler's Expertise Shines

Driving Water Infrastructure Investments in Georgia

Adler's role as the Director of Water Resources at GEFA puts her at the forefront of Georgia's water infrastructure development. Under her leadership, the agency oversees over 0 million in annual investments, with a particular focus on supporting disadvantaged communities. Adler's expertise in navigating the complexities of water infrastructure financing and project management will be invaluable in addressing the state's pressing water-related challenges.Through the GEFA's administration of the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Fund, Adler and her team provide federal assistance to public water and wastewater systems across Georgia, enabling critical capital improvement projects. This vital work ensures that communities have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water resources, laying the foundation for economic growth and improved quality of life.

Leveraging Sustainability and Innovation

Prior to joining GEFA, Adler's impressive career trajectory included serving as the Vice President and Head of Global Sustainability for Gap Inc. In this role, she directed the company's corporate strategy and operations for environmental sustainability and social impact, with a particular focus on water stewardship, clean energy, and climate solutions.Adler's experience in driving sustainability initiatives at a global scale will undoubtedly inform her approach to addressing Georgia's water infrastructure challenges. By integrating innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and a holistic understanding of environmental and social impacts, Adler is poised to guide the state towards a more resilient and equitable water future.

Diverse Expertise and Certifications

Judy Adler's professional background is marked by a diverse range of experiences and certifications that underscore her expertise in the field of water resources and environmental engineering.Adler holds a bachelor's degree in civil and environmental engineering from Vanderbilt University, as well as a master's degree in environmental engineering from the University of North Carolina. She is a licensed professional engineer, a certified energy manager, and a LEED Green Associate, further demonstrating her commitment to technical excellence and sustainability.Prior to her roles at GEFA and Gap Inc., Adler served as a president and senior program officer at the Turner Foundation Inc., a program manager and senior engineer at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and a project manager and engineer at Metcalf and Eddy (now AECOM). This diverse background has equipped Adler with a deep understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing water infrastructure and the strategies required to address them effectively.

Championing Equity and Inclusion

Adler's commitment to water infrastructure development extends beyond technical expertise; she is also a passionate advocate for ensuring equitable access to clean water and sanitation services, particularly in disadvantaged communities.Through her leadership at GEFA, Adler has made it a priority to direct resources and support towards underserved areas, recognizing the critical role that reliable water infrastructure plays in fostering economic growth, public health, and overall community well-being.By leveraging her extensive experience and collaborative approach, Adler is poised to drive meaningful change and inspire others to join the effort in building a more sustainable and inclusive water future for Georgia.