About the SC Water Workforce Collaborative
In South Carolina and across the nation, water and wastewater utilities are facing a shortage of operators and other skilled workers as many veteran operators prepare to retire. Recruiting the next generation of water professionals is a top priority.
To accomplish this, the SC Water Associations is coordinating the formation of a utility workforce collaborative. Member utilities will pool resources to develop a strong, stable workforce that is essential for utility operations. This collaborative effort is modeled after Baywork, a similar network of utilities in California that has improved the workforce pipeline in the Bay area.
The current workforce climate is influenced by many factors, but one that stands out as best addressed collectively is our lack of visibility. The water industry has long operated below the public radar, quietly providing the essential services that our communities rely on. As a result, many students and young professionals don’t know about career options in the water industry. We aim to change that.
The collaborative is still in the development phase, and the founding member utilities are developing the organizational structure and objectives of the collaborative. The initial goals are to build out this website to house water career information and develop a marketing campaign to attract workers to our industry.
If your utility is interested in joining the collaborative, please contact David Baize, Executive Director, SC Water Associations.
Download a presentation explaining the SC Water Workforce Collaborative (PDF)
FAQs
What's involved in becoming a founding member of the collaborative?
Becoming a founding member means your utility is committed to supporting the creation of an SC Utility Workforce Collaborative. This includes providing a representative to help develop the organizational structure and objectives of the collaborative, including governance and dues. There is no up-front financial commitment; you just agree to help implement the collaborative.
What is the cost of joining the collaborative?
A dues structure will be developed by the founding members, so cost information isn't available yet, although member dues will likely be based on utility size.
Is membership only for water/wastewater utilities?
Yes, only SC utilities are eligible to join the collaborative.
What is the SC Water Associations' role in the collaborative?
The SC Water Associations will provide administrative support for the collaborative, as many of our members have expressed interest in a collective approach to addressing workforce challenges.
Do I have to be a member of the SC Water Associations (WEASC or SCAWWA) to join the collaborative?
No, the collaborative is open to all SC water/wastewater utilities.
How can I learn more?
Contact David Baize, SC Water Associations Executive Director.
The water industry has long operated below the public radar, quietly providing the essential services that our communities rely on. As a result, many students and young professionals don’t know about career options in the water industry. We aim to change that.
Join us!