Educating the Future of Irrigation: A Conversation with Dr. Derek Heeren

Derek Heeren, PhD, Professor and Irrigation Engineer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, shares insights into his award-winning work in irrigation education. Honored with the 2025 Irrigation Association’s Excellence in Education Award, Heeren discusses his leadership in developing coursework, certificate programs, and a graduate specialization in agricultural water management. He also highlights his role as general editor for Irrigation Systems Management procedures published with ASABE in 2021. Beyond teaching and research, Heeren drives curricular reform, builds faculty teams, and fosters partnerships with community colleges. He further supports global and domestic irrigation efforts as the IWMI Education Coordinator for the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute. Podcast Recorded on September 18, 2025