During her participation in the Women in Water series, Commissioner Adriana Reséndez shared a testimony that deeply resonated with women across generations. Speaking from her role at the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC), she addressed essential topics such as binational diplomacy, gender equity in water, and the importance of evidence-based decision-making.
Her story was also a personal reflection on what it means to be a woman in science. Like many professionals, she faced the challenge of balancing a demanding career with motherhood. She recalled her early years as a single mother studying law, and how she had to prioritize work to ensure her daughter’s well-being. Although she admits that stage came with guilt and doubt, she recognizes that her daughter became her main motivation to persevere.
The Commissioner emphasized the need for more women to reach spaces where technical decisions are made. In her words, “every woman in science brings a unique perspective—often more empathetic and comprehensive—that enriches decision-making.” Her shift in career from aviation to the water sector was driven by a desire to create environmental and social impact, especially with future generations in mind.
Mentorship was another key theme. Reséndez stressed that a woman in science should not only forge her own path but also build support networks to help others advance. She herself found strength and growth in women’s organizations, where sharing experiences without judgment was vital to her development.
Finally, she called for broader recognition of the value women bring to water-related science. A woman in science, she affirmed, not only seeks technical answers but also works to build solutions grounded in social awareness and long-term sustainability. Her leadership demonstrates that science and humanity are not in conflict—together, they can transform the world.
Discover her story, her career, and her contributions to the management of binational waters between Mexico and the United States.
Know her story, career, and contributions to managing binational waters between Mexico and the United States.
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