Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this research was to understand water and wastewater industry leaders' perceptions of the future role of workplace spirituality in their government agencies. Methodology. The Delphi technique was chosen to solicit input and opinions and gain consensus from top level managers in the water and wastewater industries regarding the future of workplace spirituality in government agencies. Data collection methods combined qualitative and quantitative research designs. Input and opinions were gathered through three rounds of questionnaires administered through an online survey. Findings. Consensus was achieved that employees' having a higher sense of purpose currently exists in the water and wastewater industries and is the greatest benefit of workplace spirituality in the future. Other top themes were related to one another and included making a positive impact on the environment and going beyond compliance, collaborating with the community, creating a connection to peers, and encouraging organizational belonging. Numerous other benefits were highlighted. Consensus was also achieved regarding obstacles that must be overcome for workplace spirituality to play a role in the future of industry, including terminology and leadership. Conclusions. Results of this study suggest there is a current role, as well as a future role, for workplace spirituality in water and wastewater organizations. These agencies may be able to achieve the organizational benefits that are suggested for private organizations where workplace spirituality is present or has been further developed. Recommendations. Further research and empirical studies are needed, focusing both on utilities and other government organizations. An in-depth phenomenological study is recommended to gain further clarification on the meaning of having a higher sense of purpose, especially in this government utility context. Further qualitative studies could examine the water and wastewater industries in terms of current and potential practices for making a positive impact on the environment and going beyond compliance and how it contributes to workplace spirituality and a higher sense of purpose. Further enhancement of workplace spirituality in water and wastewater agencies seems possible, especially if leaders are able to overcome the barriers identified in this study.