Over the next decade, the water sector is expected to lose up to 50 percent of its workforce to retirement. If the next generation of Water and Wastewater Operators do not step up to learn from our aging workforce, decades of industry and utility specific knowledge will be lost. The PRWA Apprenticeship Program is here to bridge that gap. See the operator demographic chart below.

PRWA’s Apprenticeship Program is designed for candidates with limited or no experience. It is divided into two different tracks, Water Systems Operations Specialist and Wastewater Systems Operations Specialist. Each apprentice is assigned a mentor during their time in the program. Our staff will work with utilities to help select mentors, provide coaching, and ensure the result is a well-rounded industry professional. We will also provide the apprentice with technical training, including certification preparation for PA DEP Operator licensure.

Become an Apprentice

PRWA’s Apprenticeship is registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. Placements are two-year full-time positions, during which apprentices will be paid a salary. Apprentices will receive 288 hours of Related Technical Instruction (RTI) and 4,000 hours of on-the-job training (OJT).

Earn while you learn to become a licensed operator in a stable, non-fluctuating industry.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be 18 years old or older
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Have a valid driver’s license
• Be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the apprenticeship program

Apply to Become an Apprentice

If you are ready to begin the apprenticeship application process, create an account and submit your information here.

Apprentice Training

The program includes required Apprentice guidance and training. Curriculum training will soon be available here.

Hire an Apprentice

If your Water or Wastewater System is interested in hiring an apprentice or currently employs operators with limited experience and would like to learn more about how the program could benefit you, please contact Ryan Orgitano at (814) 470-9130 or [email protected].

The Apprenticeship Program is a partnership between the Pennsylvania Rural Water Association and the National Rural Water Association and is registered through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.

       

For more information contact Ryan below, or email and a dedicated team member will contact you.

We Need Apprentice Operators

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PLEDGE: The Pennsylvania Rural Water Association will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 40 years old or older. The Pennsylvania Rural Water Association will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 30.