Aaron Kirkland, Superintendent of the Philadelphia Water Department’s Green Stormwater Operations Unit, is celebrated as a Hydro20 honoree for his leadership in green stormwater infrastructure maintenance and inclusive workforce development.

Recognizing that green stormwater systems, vital for managing flooding and ensuring environmental sustainability, were often neglected post-construction, Kirkland emphasized the importance of ongoing maintenance to preserve their effectiveness. He highlighted the risk of invasive weeds overtaking these systems, which could undermine significant investments if left unaddressed.

Starting as an apprentice through the Philadelphia PowerCorps program, Kirkland overcame employment barriers to rise through the ranks.

After completing a six-month program and a year-long apprenticeship with the Philadelphia Water Department, he began as an entry-level maintenance worker and eventually became a supervisor. In this role, he built strong relationships with workforce development partnerships and HR to strengthen the apprenticeship-to-career pipeline, creating opportunities for others from underserved communities.

Kirkland’s leadership has transformed Philadelphia’s stormwater systems, particularly through the Green City, Clean Waters initiative, while fostering job creation and upward mobility.

By maintaining and expanding green spaces in underserved neighborhoods, he has enhanced community environments and provided a model for other cities to learn from Philadelphia’s successes and challenges.

Aaron Kirkland’s dedication to sustainable stormwater management and inclusive workforce development has earned him a well-deserved place among the Hydro20 honorees.