DENVER, CO, May 4, 2011 -- As Drinking Water Week continues, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and its members urge students and job seekers to consider careers in the water sector.
"The water community offers careers that are both central to public health and the environment, and are personally and professionally rewarding," said AWWA Executive Director David LaFrance. "Plus, it's an ideal time to become part of the water workforce. There are excellent opportunities available almost everywhere, because water is essential to every community."
AWWA and the Water Environment Federation (WEF) have partnered on a "Work for Water" web site and outreach campaign to showcase the many water-related opportunities for young people and others looking for new career opportunities. The web site, www.workforwater.org, includes information on necessary skills, training programs, testimonials from individuals currently working in the water community and resources for water professionals. It also links to the Water Sector Competency Model developed by AWWA, WEF, the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
North Americans rely on safe, sustainable water supplies for everything from drinking to fire protection to public health and sanitation, and water career opportunities exist in every state and province for almost every skill set. Workforce shortages are projected for treatment plant operators, distribution system mechanics, engineers, scientists and many other positions from throughout the water sector.
About Drinking Water Week
For more than 35 years, the American Water Works Association and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week -- a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together to recognize the vital role water plays in our daily lives.
AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the world. AWWA advances public health, safety and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the entire water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest good of the people and the environment.
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