American Water Earns Forbes Recognition as Top Employer for Women

Lori Sutton, the company’s executive vice president and chief human resources officer, credited the ranking to a deliberate focus on inclusivity and professional growth. She noted that the organization prioritizes a workplace environment where diverse backgrounds and viewpoints are integrated into daily operations. Central to this strategy is the Women’s Empowerment Champion & Ally Network, or WE CAN, an internal group dedicated to professional enrichment and community building.

The Forbes methodology relied on more than 4 million individual evaluations compiled over a three-year period. Participants assessed their employers on metrics ranging from parental leave policies to overall work-life balance. Beyond this latest recognition, the company also appeared on the 2026 list for Best Employers for Company Culture. As it celebrates its 140th anniversary, the utility firm continues to manage services for approximately 14 million people across 14 states and 19 military installations, supported by a workforce of 7,000 professionals.