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

Water UP! Returns to Camden to Empower the Next Generation in Water Careers

Five years have passed since Water UP! launched in Camden, New Jersey, with a mission to create opportunities in the critical water industry. This workforce development initiative, a program of New Jersey American Water, is now making its return to the city where it all started, reinforcing its goals to strengthen the region’s future workforce.

The Water UP! program aims to introduce talented individuals to essential careers in the infrastructure sector, providing a vital link between them and job opportunities they may not have previously considered. As the nation faces an increasing need for skilled workers, initiatives like Water UP! play an essential role in guiding participants towards stable and fulfilling careers.

Through this paid 10-week program, participants gain professional development, industry exposure, and hands-on experiences in various critical roles such as utility mechanic, production mechanic, operations specialist, water quality technician, and customer service representative. Upon successful completion of the program, participants earn OSHA 30 certification, equipping them with essential skills needed for safe and reliable water and wastewater service.

A key partner in this initiative is Hopeworks, a local organization dedicated to assisting young adults in building meaningful careers. Together, they are fostering pathways that not only benefit participants but also uplift the communities they belong to. “Water UP! is about opening doors,” remarked Dan Rhoton, CEO of Hopeworks. Many individuals enter without realizing the myriad opportunities the utility sector offers. By facilitating training, mentorship, and professional exposure, they help participants build a foundation for future careers aligned with community needs.

A notable success story is that of Myles Jefferson, a Water UP! participant in 2023. Through the program, he discovered a clear path in the utility sector and has since gained valuable experience working with the Evesham Municipal Utilities Authority before advancing to a utility mechanic role at PSEG. “Water UP! helped me understand the range of careers available in the utility industry and gave me a clearer path forward,” said Myles. His experience epitomizes the program’s broader mission of connecting talent with opportunities that nurture career growth.

Over the years, Water UP! has successfully guided more than 50 participants toward careers within the utility industry, reinforcing alliances among workforce development organizations, community partners, and industry employers. It has played a crucial role in empowering participants with the skills, credentials, and industry knowledge necessary to thrive in an expanding job market.

“The future of the water industry depends on attracting and developing talented individuals from the communities we serve,” stated Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water. Water UP! exemplifies what can be achieved through collaboration between workforce development organizations, community entities, and industry leaders, creating beneficial opportunities for all involved.

In summary, Water UP!’s return to Camden not only reinforces its original aim to build a future-ready workforce but also reflects a commitment to community and economic growth. By continuing to engage with young adults and providing them with impactful career pathways, the program is sowing the seeds for a more sustainable and skilled workforce in New Jersey’s water sector, ultimately enhancing the essential services delivered to communities throughout the state.

For further details, explore more about Water UP! and its impact on the community at American Water and follow New Jersey American Water on social media platforms.