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Women’s History Month

Highlighting women in the groundwater industry

Kyrie BergstromKyrie Bergstrom
Rock Well Water Systems & Pumps
NGWA Member

How did you enter the groundwater industry?

I have grown up in the groundwater industry my whole life and I am the third generation of our family company (with the fourth generation on the way due in August!). For as long as I can remember, my whole life and career has revolved around groundwater and this industry. Growing up, I was homeschooled which allowed me to really be a big part of learning the industry and how our family business functioned. Since then, I have never looked elsewhere — I fell in love with what we do and how we are able to provide an essential part of life for those in need.

What has been your proudest career achievement so far?

The thing that I am most proud of about my career in this industry so far has been being a part of our Washington State Ground Water Association. This will be my third year serving on the board of directors, and it is an honor to make a difference locally for groundwater protection, as well as pave the way for other girls and women to be a part of what we do.

Who influenced you to dive deeper into a groundwater-related industry?

My biggest influencer has been my dad. I grew up napping under his desk in the shop, learning about all the tools and trade. He taught me what it means to have a real work ethic, and I still learn from him to this day. I now work alongside him helping manage the family business. I take pride in what our family does, and, most importantly, he has taught me what a joy it is to help people enjoy the water in their lives.

What do you hope for the future of groundwater, hydrogeology, and/or environmental science?

In the future I hope to see more women involved, more family businesses thriving, and more young people learning and growing into this industry. I think there is a large age gap currently and I hope to see that filled as this is such a great industry to be a part of.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female groundwater professionals?

Advice I would give to the next generation is to never give up, chase your dreams, and seek out others who will challenge you and help you learn and grow along the way. Stand up for what you believe in; don’t let others come down on you for being the minority. Be proud of the industry and the work that you do.

To read more profiles of women in the groundwater industry, click here.