Meet Our Water Education Team

McAllen Public Utility’s Water Education Team is dedicated to inspiring the next generation through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Through STEAM-focused camps and outreach programs, the team promotes smart water usage, environmental stewardship, and introduces youth to exciting careers in the water industry.

About Us

McAllen Public Utility’s Water Education Team is dedicated to inspiring the next generation through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Through STEAM-focused camps and outreach programs, the team promotes smart water usage, environmental stewardship, and introduces youth to exciting careers in the water industry.

Katia Falcon

Water Education Team

Katia holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a concentration in Environment and Society, as well as a Master’s Degree in Disaster Studies from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Before joining McAllen Public Utility, she served as a planner for the City of McAllen, where she began her career in municipal government. Katia also gained valuable experience working with the USDA and NOAA, further fueling her passion for environmental protection and sustainability.

Katia also brings valuable experience from the classroom which strengthened her passion for working with young children and inspired her to combine environmental education with hands-on, engaging learning. Now at McAllen Public Utility, she is devoted to community outreach and fostering environmental stewardship, especially among the next generation.

Yesenia Tijerina

Water Education Team

Yesenia holds an Associate Degree in Business Administration from South Texas College and has been a proud member of the McAllen Public Utility team for over four years. She began her journey as a part-time administrative assistant at the Water Plant, a role she loved and where she developed a strong appreciation for the vital work done behind the scenes.

Her passion for working with young children and her friendly, outgoing nature shine through in her outreach efforts. Yesenia is deeply committed to educating the community—especially its youngest members—about the value of water and why McAllen’s water stands out as the best. She also enjoys contributing to MPU’s digital presence by assisting with content creation for the utility’s social media platforms, helping to educate and engage the community in fun and creative ways.