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? Join 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