Building the Water Workforce: Recruiting and Retaining the Next Generation of Utility Workers 4a4z1c

17/02/2023

The water sector has untapped potential for Americans looking for a fulfilling career working...

The water sector has untapped potential for Americans looking for a fulfilling career working with ever-advancing technologies and serving the public. Building this pipeline is increasingly critical as long-time workers retire and others leave the industry, with repercussions for communities across the nation—particularly in our smaller towns and rural areas. How can drinking water utilities and local governments attract and train a diverse, skilled workforce and adapt to retain these new employees over the long term? ELI’s Cynthia R. Harris and Ella Stack in a conversation with Shannon Walton (National Rural Water Association), Connie Stevens (Alliance of Indiana Rural Water) and Sophia Overton (Del Mar Water Treatment Department) for a look at how the industry is changing, the invaluable role of apprenticeships to the sector’s future, and how water utilities can help build the next generation of utility workers.
Hosts: Cynthia R. Harris & Ella Stack, Environmental Law Institute
Guests: Shannon Walton, National Indiana Rural Water, Connie Stevens, Alliance of Indiana Rural Water & Sophia Oberton, Del Mar Water Treatment Department
In This Episode We Cover:
Who the “water workforce” includes and what these roles entail in an evolving field
The certification, licensing, and training processes required to become a water or wastewater operator
How the water sector is responding to and maximizing technological advancements
Steps utilities can take to recognize the value of a diverse workforce and improve representation in the field
Advice for improving succession planning and retention
How utility companies can take advantage of and start their own apprenticeship programs
Additional Resources:
National Rural Water Association
Alliance of Indiana Rural Water
Del Mar Water Treatment Department
LGEAN Wastewater 
LGEAN Drinking Water
LGEAN Stormwater 
EPA resources on Safe Drinking Water Act Operator Certification
Renewing the Water Workforce study 
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov)
World Toilet Day
World Water Day

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