The MRWA Apprenticeship Program: Your Opportunity to Build a Strong, Skilled Workforce
Water and wastewater operations are the backbone of every community—and demand for skilled operators is rising. Nearly half of Maryland’s certified Water and Wastewater Operators will reach retirement eligibility in the next five years. Add in growing populations and increasing water needs, and the demand for trained professionals is greater than ever.
With a skills shortage in the industry, facilities have been forced to re-evaluate how they can acquire relevant skills across all levels.
The MRWA Apprenticeship Program partners with water and wastewater facilities across Maryland to bring in fresh talent and train them in the right way—on the job, with experienced mentors. This two-year, federally registered program blends coursework with real-world learning, so apprentices are ready to pass the MDE Operator Licensing Certification Exam and step into their careers.
Apprenticeships offer utilities assistance in growing the skilled workforce they need, while giving new talent real hands-on experience. For employers, it’s a simple, cost-effective way to grow your talent, plan for the future, and keep your operations running strong.
Facility Benefits:
- Grow your talent through a structured pipeline
- Reduce recruitment and training costs
- Strengthen succession planning and increase retention
- Transfer vital knowledge from experienced staff to apprentices
- Engage staff as mentors and leaders
- Alleviate the skills shortage with licensed, career-minded operators
- Support local talent and community ties
Apprentices are hired as employees of the town or utility, and MRWA handles all the tracking, reporting, and paperwork, allowing the system to focus on training and operations.
Currently hiring, or planning to hire in the near future? An apprentice could help you grow and strengthen your team!
If this opportunity sounds like a good fit, complete this short employer questionnaire, or contact Patty Shreves, Apprenticeship Coordinator – patty.shreves@md-rwa.org