Industry & Community

WEST Center is a resource for industry and the community.

Ways to be involved at WEST:

• Public utilities and private companies can partner with WEST Center through membership in the National Science Foundation Water and Environmental Technology Center (WET), or by working directly with a researcher to design and conduct experiments at WEST Center.
• Organizations interested in utilizing the facility and University expertise for technical trainings and certifications can work with a University of Arizona faculty to develop short courses and coordinate professional trainings.
• Students and community members are welcome to visit WEST Center or attend the annual Citizen Water Academy.

What WEST Center offers industry:

• Direct linkage into a 21st century wastewater treatment plant (Agua Nueva) with access to plumbed-in reclaimed water
• The capability to house intermediate field-scale water treatment trains within a high bay area
• A state-certified laboratory for analysis of human microbial pathogens
• World-class expertise in chemical and microbial emerging contaminant analyses
• Deep knowledge of new energy resources including solar technologies and algal biofuel production
• The University of Arizona Real-Time Sensor Laboratory
• The University of Arizona, National Science Foundation, Water and Environmental Technology Center

Benefits to potential partners/members:

• Access to more than 400 world class scientists and engineers working at the University of Arizona, ready to share their expertise in water and energy.
• Access to critical infrastructure and state-of-the art research laboratories and hi-bay area with intermediate field-scale treatment trains.
• Knowledge of advancements in technologies that maintain or enhance water quality with a reduced energy and carbon footprint.
• Enhanced funding via federal grant acquisitions.
• Opportunities for technical training and certification of scientists, technicians, and utility operators
  • Executive education can include modular short courses for technical support staff and utility personnel and continuing education credit
  • Example classes include: advanced water treatment technologies and analysis; real-time sensor technologies; and molecular/microbial detection of emerging microbial pathogens
• Enhanced marketing opportunities and credibility
  • National exposure
  • International networking
  • Ability to demonstrate and showcase new water and energy technologies
• Recruitment opportunities
  • Access to undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Arizona
  • Internships