Marla Smith–Nilson

Founder and Executive Director

Marla brings extensive hands-on field experience with water supply projects in developing countries. Prior to founding Water 1st, Marla was the Co-Founder and Director of International Programs for WaterPartners International. From 1992-2005, Marla oversaw the evaluation and monitoring of all aspects of WaterPartners-supported partner organizations and community water projects in developing countries. Marla has overseen the implementation of over 150 community water projects in Latin America, Asia and Africa benefiting 100,000 people. Marla is a civil engineering graduate of the University of North Carolina and the University of Arizona.

• M.S. Environmental Engineering, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
• B.S. Civil Engineering, Summa Cum Laude, University of Arizona
• Registered Professional Engineer