NRWA and US Department of Labor Launch an Apprenticeship Program

 
On November 14, in celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) and the US Department of Labor (DOL) signed an agreement that launches a nationwide apprenticeship program.  The NRWA WaterPro Apprenticeship Program, tailored to water and wastewater system operations specialists, is now a nationally-recognized standard with the DOL.  CoBank, a cooperative bank serving agribusinesses, rural infrastructure providers and Farm Credit associations, will underwrite $250,000 to help establish the program.
At the signing ceremony, Sam Wade, NRWA’s Chief Executive Officer, said, “The WaterPro Apprenticeship Program will ensure a well-trained and capable water sector workforce to meet the increasing demands of the water industry.  Advancements in water treatment and supply technology have increased the skills and training needed to protect public health and the environment.  The apprenticeship program will ensure we have the skilled and educated workforce we need well into the future.
Attendees at the signing ceremony also included representatives from several Rural Water State Affiliates, the US Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Program, and US Environmental Protection Agency’s Offices of Ground Water and Drinking Water and Wastewater Management.  ASDWA was also present for the celebratory event.
To learn more about this apprenticeship program, go to https://nrwa.org/initiatives/apprenticeship-program/.