The Irrigation Association (IA) announced that José L. Chávez, PhD, of Colorado State University, is the recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Education Award. This award recognizes an outstanding educator who teaches irrigation, water management and/or water conservation and has a commitment to not only elevating the level of education but also promoting the field of irrigation as a viable and sustainable career to students.
José L. Chávez has made a significant and sustained impact on irrigation education through his leadership in teaching, research and outreach at Colorado State University. Over the course of his academic career, he has developed and modernized key graduate courses in irrigation water management, systems design and drainage engineering, integrating real-world data, advanced technologies and conservation-focused practices. His work bridges foundational irrigation science and engineering with emerging tools such as remote sensing, evapotranspiration modeling and precision irrigation, equipping students with the skills needed to address complex water management challenges.
“José Chávez has dedicated his career to advancing irrigation education and helping students apply irrigation science with practical water management challenges,” said IA CEO Natasha Rankin. “Through his leadership in teaching, mentorship and outreach, he has equipped students and professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to work with the tools and practices shaping modern irrigation. His commitment to connecting research, technology and practical application has strengthened irrigation education and helped prepare the next generation of irrigation professionals.”
Through mentorship, outreach and professional engagement, Chávez has extended his influence well beyond the classroom. He has advised and guided numerous graduate students, visiting scholars and researchers, while actively connecting them to industry opportunities, professional societies and applied research experiences. His university extension work, international training and involvement with industry organizations have helped translate research into practice and strengthen irrigation education globally. Through hands-on instruction and applied learning, Chávez has helped prepare a generation of irrigation professionals grounded in both technical expertise and practical application.
“I am deeply grateful and honored to be selected as the recipient of the Irrigation Association’s 2026 Excellence in Education Award,” said Chávez. “Educating and mentoring the next generation of irrigation professionals while advancing science-based solutions for efficient irrigation and water management has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. I am sincerely grateful to the Irrigation Association for this recognition and to the many students, colleagues, farmers, industry partners and Colorado State University whose support, collaboration and dedication have made this achievement possible.”
The 2026 IA Award recipients will be honored at the 2026 Irrigation Show and Education Week in Las Vegas, Dec. 7-10.