Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators at COSI’s Color of Science

When we talk about the future of water management, we’re not just thinking about infrastructure—we’re thinking about people. That’s why events like COSI’s Color of Science matter. It’s where passion for science meets the power of representation. And we were proud to be a part of it.

Hosted at the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio, Color of Science is more than a science fair. It’s an immersive experience designed to amplify the voices and stories of underrepresented professionals in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM). This year’s event brought scientists, engineers, educators, and community members together to connect with the next generation of thinkers—and to spark new possibilities in young minds.

For us, the event aligned perfectly with our purpose. We were there to show how science and sustainability come together in our daily work—and to show what a career in water management can look like. From designing underground stormwater systems to advancing recycled materials, we gave attendees a closer look at how infrastructure and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. 

We came ready to engage—with displays designed to spark curiosity. A 60-inch stick of our N-12 Dual Wall HDPE Pipe stood front and center, and it became a favorite stop for kids who walked through it to get a sense of the scale and strength of our products. It wasn’t just about size—it was about connection. Feeling the texture, stepping inside the pipe, and realizing where it fits in the world helped them picture our work in action.

Next to that display, we showcased our recycling process. Attendees could see the full lifecycle of materials: from HDPE bottles like the ones in their kitchens, to the flakes and pellets we transform into infrastructure solutions. The visual journey helped demystify the recycling process and emphasized the role science plays in building something better.

To tie it all together, we introduced a 3D-printed display showing how we manage the lifecycle of a raindrop—from where it lands, to how it’s captured, stored, and reused in a sustainable stormwater system. It offered a clear, creative way to visualize how our solutions protect water and communities everywhere. 

Color of Science also speaks to a larger opportunity: representation in STEAM. When young people see professionals who look like them working in science and engineering, they’re more likely to see that path as possible. As a leader in water management and recycling, we take that responsibility seriously. Engagement today builds the workforce of tomorrow. 

To the team at COSI—thank you for creating a space where curiosity thrives and diversity is celebrated. And to every young visitor we met: your questions, energy, and imagination reminded us why this work matters.

At ADS, we believe the future of water—and the future of science—depends on who gets invited into the conversation. Color of Science is one way we help open that door.