Karen Lopez

WASH Adviser
Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Professional Overview

Karen Lopez is an experienced WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Adviser with a strong background in public services, water sector management, and policy development. She has a proven track record of driving sustainable water and sanitation initiatives in both the public and non-profit sectors.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the WASH Adviser at CAWST (Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology), Karen leverages her expertise to support organizations and communities in improving access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services. In this role, she provides technical assistance, capacity-building, and strategic advisory services to help address complex WASH challenges.

Career Progression

Prior to her current position, Karen held various roles within the water and sanitation industry. She served as an Especialista en Servicios públicos (Public Services Specialist) at WaterAid, where she contributed to the development and implementation of water and sanitation projects. Additionally, she held the position of Director de proyecto (Project Director) at WaterAid, leading cross-functional teams in the execution of high-impact initiatives.

Karen's earlier career experiences include roles as a Contratista Subdirección de Regulación (Contractor, Regulation Subdivision) at the Comisión de Regulación de Agua Potable y Saneamiento Básico - CRA (Drinking Water and Basic Sanitation Regulation Commission), and as a Profesional especializado, Dirección de Política Sectorial, Viceministerio de Agua y Saneamiento (Specialized Professional, Sectoral Policy Directorate, Vice-Ministry of Water and Sanitation) at the Ministerio de Vivienda, Ciudad y Territorio (Ministry of Housing, City, and Territory).

Academic Background

Karen holds a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from the Universidad de los Andes - Colombia. Her academic achievements and specialized training have equipped her with a deep understanding of water resources management, policy development, and sustainable WASH solutions.

Areas of Expertise

• Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) program design and implementation

• Water sector policy and regulatory framework development

• Project management and stakeholder engagement

• Technical advisory and capacity-building in WASH solutions

• Strategic planning and sustainable program development

Professional Impact

Throughout her career, Karen has contributed to the advancement of WASH initiatives in various contexts. She has played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of water and sanitation projects, demonstrating her ability to drive tangible improvements in access to safe water and sanitation services. Karen's expertise and collaborative approach have earned her recognition as a respected WASH professional within the industry.

Conclusion

With her extensive experience, technical expertise, and demonstrated commitment to sustainable WASH solutions, Karen Lopez is well-positioned to continue making a meaningful impact in the water and sanitation sector. As the WASH Adviser at CAWST, she remains dedicated to empowering organizations and communities to overcome water-related challenges and improve the overall well-being of the populations they serve.