Learn About Workforce Issues
Water and wastewater treatment plant operators provide clean and safe water to the public and are vital to protecting public health. However, the industry predicts large scale retirements, which poses challenges for recruitment and succession planning.
EPA, states, and industry organizations work to promote professional development in the water sector to help ensure there is a pool of qualified water professionals to meet current and future public health needs. The following are avenues for recruitment and training in the water sector:
- 2024 Interagency Water Workforce Working Group Report to Congress
- America’s Water Sector Workforce Initiative
- Water Operator Contract and Hiring Guide
- Water Workforce Veteran Promotion
- Water Workforce Training Programs
- Supporting Water Operator Apprenticeship Programs
- EPA’s “Water You Waiting For?” Recruitment Videos