David Cowan: Amplifying Impact Through Service and Clean Water

What does it look like when professional skills, faith, and service come together? In the latest issue of a national engineering honor society newsletter, David Cowan, P.E.—a longtime VAVV missionary and volunteer—shares how mentorship, service, and lifelong involvement have shaped his vocation as an engineer and leader.

In a special feature highlighting his recent service trip to Peru, David reflects on working alongside Vera Aqua Vera Vita to support clean water and sanitation solutions in underserved communities. From monitoring an existing water treatment system in Monte Castillo to launching WASH education, forming local water committees, and helping establish a “virtual pipeline” to deliver safe water to Las Mercedes and La Merced, his story shows how sustainable change is built through partnership, humility, and action.

This powerful piece reminds us that clean water is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline—and that when people use their gifts in service of others, real and lasting change follows.

👉 Read the full article and David’s complete reflection here.