Dear Wastewater Professionals,
One of the most urgent challenges facing our industry today
is the aging of our workforce. Many of our most seasoned operators are nearing
retirement, and unless we act with intention, we risk losing not just
experienced professionals—but institutional knowledge that will be difficult to
replace. The question we must all ask is: who will step up next?
For those of us already in this field, we know how
rewarding this work can be. It’s a profession grounded in public service,
environmental stewardship, and technical expertise. It offers long-term job
stability, even through economic downturns. And perhaps most importantly, it
provides purpose—you go home knowing you’ve contributed to the health and
sustainability of your community. It’s time we help others see that too.
Recruiting and training the next generation of wastewater
professionals must be a shared priority. Fortunately, there are several
excellent programs and opportunities available right here in western
Pennsylvania to support new operators and encourage their growth.
WPWPCA continues to offer our Operator’s Scholarship, which
provides up to $2,500 in reimbursement for anyone taking coursework to prepare
for the state operator certification exam. Whether someone is just entering the
field or already working in a plant and looking to advance, this scholarship
can help make that next step more accessible. The application period will open in early 2026.
In addition to our scholarship program, two local colleges
offer DEP-approved certification training. The Community College of Allegheny
County (CCAC) recently launched a 180-hour Wastewater Operator Certificate course that introduces students to core treatment
processes, regulations, and the role of the operator—with a plant tour
included. The course is ideal for both beginners and current operators looking
to prepare for the state exam. For more
information, please contact Reginald Overton at roverton@ccac.edu or 412-788-7536.
The Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) also offers a
longstanding DEP-approved 180-hour Wastewater Treatment Operator program. The
course runs from October 7, 2025, to May 21, 2026, with classes on Tuesday and
Thursday evenings from 6–9 PM. It includes hands-on training, plant site tours,
and automatic enrollment in the on-campus PA DEP exam. For more information, please contact Ronda
Ortiz at ronda.ortiz@ccbc.edu or
724-480-3451.
Beyond the classroom, WPWPCA also organizes four to five
wastewater treatment plant tours each year. These events provide an excellent
chance for new and aspiring professionals to experience plant operations
firsthand, interact with seasoned operators, and begin building a professional
network. If you’re a manager or supervisor, I strongly encourage you to make
space for your team members—especially newer staff—to attend these tours and
get involved.
Recruitment isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about
cultivating interest, sharing our passion, and offering mentorship to those who
will carry this work forward. For those of us who have been in the field for
many years, this is an opportunity to lead by example. A kind word, a bit of
shared knowledge, or simply taking the time to support someone new can go a
long way. If you know someone who’s looking for a meaningful career path—maybe
a recent graduate, a military veteran, or someone searching for greater
stability and purpose—tell them about this industry. Invite them to your plant.
Encourage them to attend an event. Let’s each do our part to ensure the next
generation of wastewater professionals is not only prepared—but welcomed and
supported every step of the way.
Warm Regards,
Robert Herring, PE, PMP
President (2024–2025), Western Pennsylvania Water Pollution
Control Association
Executive Director, Washington-East Washington Joint
Authority
