EPA Convenes Roundtable Focused on Strengthening the Water Sector Workforce
WASHINGTON – Yesterday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) convened a roundtable on water workforce to discuss how to help recruit and retain individuals into meaningful careers in water and to identify opportunities where EPA can help reduce barriers and improve interstate coordination. EPA’s Office of Water was joined by water systems, water associations, states, and other partners to engage in proactive discussions about how to address a potential widespread shortage of qualified workers due to anticipated retirements. This engagement will inform EPA’s efforts to revitalize the 2020 Water Workforce Initiative—developed and released in the first Trump Administration—while creating an online toolbox with resources that water systems, states, and technical assistance providers can use to improve recruiting, development, and retention.
“Every time we turn on the tap, flush the toilet, or water the garden, we are depending on the dedicated professionals managing public water systems. It is imperative that the water sector be set up for success, which is why the Trump EPA is focused on working with our partners to bolster career recruitment and retention,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer. “This roundtable discussion was a meaningful step in this shared effort because there are proactive actions we can take to reduce barriers and encourage talented professionals to enter the water sector and help protect public health by ensuring that all Americans can rely on clean, safe water.”
The water sector, including drinking water and wastewater systems, is facing a widespread shortage of qualified workers due to expected retirements. Approximately one-third of the water workforce is nearing retirement age. Additionally, new technical and scientific skillsets are needed to operate and maintain modern systems, implement cybersecurity best practices, and address new challenges. This wave of retirements also comes at a time when new investments are needed to address the nation’s aging water infrastructure. While investments in water infrastructure through the State Revolving Fund Programs, the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program, and other programs are critical, investing in human capital is essential to strengthening the water sector to benefit current and future generations.
By connecting individuals to jobs in the water sector, providing critical training, and expanding public awareness about the benefits of careers providing vital water services, EPA will help the water sector meet current and future needs. Developing internships and apprenticeship programs, education programs, and other resources will ensure a strong pipeline of workers and high-quality jobs to provide clean, safe drinking water for all Americans.
Background
One way EPA supports the water workforce is through the Innovative Water Workforce Development Grant Program. Since the program’s inception in 2018, this grant program has invested more than $15 million in the expansion of public awareness about job opportunities in the water sector.
EPA also supports the workforce through national oversight of state Operator Certification Programs that are required under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The agency works with states to deliver best practices and resources, such as operator training and technical assistance. These help operators gain the technical expertise and certifications needed to treat and deliver safe drinking water.
Learn more about EPA’s water infrastructure sector workforce activities.
Learn more about EPA’s operator certification workforce activities.