Our ability to adapt to a changing climate with uncertain water resources necessitates cultivating the next generation of climate and water leaders through immersion in scientific evidence. Secure Water Future provides a selective cohort of graduate students with an experiential summer training program designed to introduce western water management complexity, climate change challenges, and a network of water leaders to build their skills in climate adaptation science, science communication, and transdisciplinary research. This Climate Adaptation Science Academy Experiential Learning Expedition (CASA ELE) brings unique field learning experiences, hands-on training in climate-affected organizations, and the development of educational, outreach, and translational products. CASA ELE graduate student participants become proficient in communicating hydroclimate information and societal response across the western United States.