With retirement numbers climbing among water and wastewater plant operators, the industry faces a serious workforce shortage across the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency forecasts that nearly half of current water workers could retire within the next decade. Efforts are underway to attract new workers, especially those with high-tech skills since automation takes on larger roles in water treatment. 

Training programs are partnering with local communities to recruit and train the next generation of operators. There is focus on practical experience through on-site internships and certifications.

Explore the full article at radio.wcmu.org to see how utilities are addressing these shortages and the role of new training programs in the field.