#United States #Camden #New Jersey American Water #Water UP! #Hopeworks

Celebrating Five Years of Water UP!

New Jersey American Water recently celebrated a significant milestone: the graduation of its fifth cohort from the Water UP! program. Launched in 2021, this initiative has served as a gateway for individuals seeking careers in the water and utility sector, marking the training and graduation of a total of 61 participants over its five-year journey.

The graduation ceremony was held at the company's Camden headquarters, where family members, community partners, and employees gathered to honor the ten individuals who completed the 2026 program. The atmosphere was filled with pride and hope as these graduates prepared to step into roles that support essential water services in their communities.

Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water, emphasized the program's value, stating, “Celebrating five years of Water UP! is an incredible milestone, but what matters most is the opportunity this program creates for people to develop new skills and explore careers in the water industry.” He highlighted how this initiative prepares the next generation of utility professionals for an industry that myriad communities rely on daily.

Over a concentrated span of ten weeks, participants of Water UP! undergo a comprehensive training program that equips them with invaluable skills applicable in various utility roles. The curriculum integrates classroom instruction with practical experiences and is designed to cover vital subjects, including financial literacy, customer service, leadership development, OSHA training, and the intricate mechanics of utility operations. This broad spectrum of training not only grants graduates a solid foundation but also enhances their employability in a growing sector.

The 2026 cohort included several Camden residents, underscoring the program's significance in this community. Collaborating closely with Hopeworks, a local organization dedicated to empowering young adults, Water UP! has solidified its reputation as a vital steppingstone towards employment. Since its inception, Hopeworks has played a critical role in recruitment and skill training, making the collaboration pivotal to the program's success.

Dan Rhoton, CEO of Hopeworks, remarked, “We are proud to partner with New Jersey American Water for the 2026 cohort and help connect participants to meaningful career opportunities. Programs like Water UP! provide exposure to industries they may not have otherwise considered, while building the credentials and confidence needed for long-term career success.”

The return of the program to Camden not only showcases the successful partnerships that exist within the community but also highlights how collective endeavors can indeed create substantial opportunities for local youth. Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen expressed gratitude towards American Water for their commitment, stating, “I can’t say enough about American Water and everyone who has played a part in making this happen. All of our partners are here for our young people, addressing their needs and creating chances that can lead to successful careers.”

The graduation ceremony culminated in participants receiving certificates, marking their achievements in the Water UP! program. Among these graduates, Mia Morales reflected on how the experience bolstered her professional development. “Water UP! has given us the skills to enter the utility field with confidence and competence. My time spent networking, receiving feedback, and acquiring practical skills, such as changing water meters and repairing water main breaks, has been invaluable,” she shared. Her impressive progress exemplifies the program’s efficacy in preparing participants for the workforce.

As Water UP! celebrates its fifth year, the program has proven to be a successful model for workforce development aimed at introducing young adults to viable careers in the water utility industry. The initiative not only strengthens local communities by fostering essential job skills, but it also equips individuals with the professional training and confidence to excel in this essential field.

For more insights on New Jersey American Water’s workforce development initiatives, visit New Jersey American Water.

About American Water

American Water, established in 1886, stands as the largest regulated water and wastewater utility in the United States. The firm, serving about 14 million people across 14 states and various military installations, prides itself on ensuring safe and dependable water service. As it celebrates 140 years in 2026, the company's philosophy of “We Keep Life Flowing” resonates with its mission to provide excellence in drinking water and wastewater services.

About Hopeworks

Hopeworks is dedicated to transforming lives through technology and entrepreneurship. By offering technical training, work experiences, and career readiness, it empowers young adults to build sustainable and fulfilling careers. Through partnerships like that with New Jersey American Water, Hopeworks continues to broaden career avenues for communities it serves.