Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority

10 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 10, ISSUE 8 resonates with a broader vision of resilience, growth, and nurturing young talent. Whether it’s about invigorating the Virgin Islands with renewable energy or directly engaging with local students to promote STEM careers, its strategy is as comprehensive as it is compassionate. Its investment in technology and infrastructure is equally remarkable. Reflecting on its improvement in reliability and system hardening, Smith states, “After the storms of 2017, FEMA has been engaged with us ever since in a number of projects.” An example is the installing of composite poles and undergrounding transmission and distribution lines, aimed at ensuring the most robust, storm-resistant infrastructure possible. Moreover, the Authority’s water initiatives are set to revolutionize the system in Saint Croix with a FEMA funded project that will “completely modernize that system and get it to best-in-class in terms of what it needs to be,” according to Smith. This intricate web of projects, guided by thoughtful prioritization and backed by federal partners, symbolizes VIWAPA’s steadfast dedication to its mission. It’s a vision that not only fortifies the Virgin Islands against physical challenges but also nurtures a generation of young professionals equipped to lead the territory into a bright, resilient future. PREFERRED VENDORS/PARTNERS n Seven Seas Water Group www.sevenseaswater.com Established in 1996 in the US Virgin Islands, Seven Seas Water Group annually delivers 18 billion gallons of treated water and wastewater through its Water-as-a-Service® approach. Seven Seas forms long-lasting partnerships with clients in the governmental, municipal, industrial, and hospitality industries, to tackle the complexities of water resource and management challenges. Offering engineering experience, operational excellence, and financial resources, Seven Seas will design, build, acquire, refurbish, and operate plants to perform at maximum efficiency, guaranteeing price, superior water quality, and ample water quantity.