Over the next decade, the water sector is expected to lose up to 50% of its workforce to retirement. The Mass Rural Water Association (MassRWA) is proud to offer an apprenticeship program in the drinking water field, offering the next generation of Water Operators an opportunity to learn from an experienced workforce and preserve decades of industry and utility knowledge. The MassRWA Apprenticeship Program is here to help bridge the gap!
MassRWA’s Apprenticeship Program is designed for candidates with limited or no experience. We currently offer one apprenticeship track: Water Systems Operation Specialist. Each apprentice is assigned a mentor during 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 exam preparation for the Mass DEP Operator licensure.
Why Join the Industry
System operators draw on vital knowledge of regulations and technical skills, making them essential to the continued safety of both the public and the environment. By joining the industry, you are helping water utilities ensure communities have access to clean drinking water and a healthy environment. The water industry urgently needs motivated individuals who want to serve their communities and help protect one of its most vital resources.
Become an Apprentice
MassRWA’s Apprenticeship is registered with the Mass Department of Labor, Division of Apprentice Standards. Placements are typically two-year, full-time positions in which the participating utility pays apprentices a salary. The Apprentice will be an employee of the utility. Apprentices will receive 4,000 hours of on-the-job training (OJT) and 300 hours of Related Technical Instruction (RTI).
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
Click below to read more about NRWA’s Apprenticeship Program.
If you are ready to begin the apprenticeship application process, click below to create an account and submit your information.
The Apprenticeship Program is a partnership between the Mass Rural Water Association and the National Rural Water Association, and is registered through the Mass Department of Labor, Division of Apprentice Standards.
Hire an Apprentice
If your water system is interested in hiring an apprentice or currently employs an operator(s) with limited experience and would like to learn more about how the program could benefit you, please contact Jason Blais
Contact Us
If you have any questions, please contact:
Jason Blais
Director of Capacity Development & Apprenticeship Coordinator
413-325-4644
jblais@massrwa.org, or
apprenticeship@massrwa.org
Non-Discrimination Policy: The Mass 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. Mass 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.