Drinking Water

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Considering the Barriers to Clean, Safe Water on World Water Day

March 20th, 2024

On March 22, Water First asks us to reflect on the safety of a resource many of us take for granted

Creemore, Ontario March 20, 2024 — As we approach World Water Day on March 22, Water First Education and Training Inc. wants to know what safe water means to you.

For the Creemore, Ontario-based nonprofit, safe water means continuing to collaborate with Indigenous communities that have identified education and training as critical solutions to many water challenges. It means removing barriers to opportunities that may exist in other classroom models. It means building local capacity for independent and long-term water protection. It means skilled, passionate people working in their communities.

From the launch of the recent Drinking Water Internship Program with Interlake Reserves Tribal Council in Manitoba – the first such program to be implemented outside of Ontario, to the new ground-breaking Environmental Water Internship Program, Water First is dedicated to working in collaboration with Indigenous communities across Canada to support safe water sustainability.

Safe water can mean a lot of things, from the personal to the practical, and it means something different to every person in every community. For most of us, safe water means not even considering the act of turning on the tap, cooking dinner, or taking a shower. But for Indigenous communities across the country, safe water supply is at risk.

Access to safe, clean water in Indigenous communities in Canada continues to be a critical issue. In Canada, 14 percent of First Nations are affected by a drinking water advisory. The challenges are complex and layered. Communities may face issues relating to infrastructure, source water quality, or people to manage water systems – or more than one of these issues at a time.

Reflecting on the importance of World Water Day and raising awareness of the disproportionate effects of climate change and the number of drinking water advisories in Indigenous communities, John Millar, Water First’s Founder and Executive Director, says, “To me, safe water means the ability to feel respected because everyone should have access to safe, clean drinking water in Canada. It is disrespectful that the vast majority of people in Canada do – while far too many people in Indigenous communities do not.”

Many Indigenous communities in Canada have identified the need for more qualified, local personnel to support solving water issues. Water First training, education and internship programs, developed in collaboration with the communities in which these programs are being implemented, help ensure that there are skilled people to keep local water safe for the long term.

For Hunter Edison, a graduate of the Drinking Water Internship Program now employed as the lead operator at his community’s water treatment plant in Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation in Northwestern Ontario, safe water means that everybody in his community can turn on their tap, fill a glass of water and drink it. Thanks to his training and employment, “If any problems arise within the community they can be addressed and resolved within a timely manner with my team.”

“To me, safe water means turning on the tap and not wondering if the source of the water was safe, or considering what equipment was used by how many skilled people,” says Water First Project Manager Krysta Wordock. “Water Operators are the invisible superheroes who make safe, clean drinking water possible.”

Says Millar, “Safe water means the ability to focus on other important things in our lives like family and friends and work and school because we’re not preoccupied with trying to figure out where we’re going to get safe water from.”

For more information on Water First’s #SafeWaterMeans campaign, and for opportunities to help support programs that address water challenges in Indigenous communities across Canada, visit www.waterfirst.ngo/springcampaign.

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World Water Day is a global effort coordinated by the United Nations to raise awareness and inspire action to tackle the global water and sanitation crisis. This year’s theme is “Water for Peace.” Learn more at https://www.un.org/en/observances/water-day.

About Water First Education & Training Inc. (Water First):
Water First is a registered Canadian charity that works alongside Indigenous communities to address water challenges through education, training, and meaningful collaboration. Since 2009, Water First has collaborated with more than 90 Indigenous communities located in the lands now known as Canada while supporting Indigenous youth and young adults to pursue careers in water science. Learn more: www.waterfirst.ngo.

For more information, please contact:

Ami Gopal
Director of Development and Communications
Water First
1-800-970-8467 ext. 106
ami.gopal@waterfirst.ngo

Water First and Interlake Reserves Tribal Council Launch New Internship Program

February 28th, 2024

Partnership marks the organization’s first skills training program to operate in Manitoba

Winnipeg, Manitoba, February 28, 2024 — Water First Education & Training Inc., in partnership with Interlake Reserves Tribal Council (IRTC) and participating communities, is proud to announce a new water treatment plant operator training program for local community members. The expansion to Manitoba marks the first Drinking Water Internship Program to operate outside of Ontario and supports Water First’s commitment to help develop these critical projects with communities across the country.

Interns from the seven Interlake Reserves Tribal Council communities will participate in the 15-month Drinking Water Internship Program to pursue valuable provincial certifications, which help trainees begin their careers in the water field. The internship launched February 12, 2024, with an Introduction Week in Pinaymootang First Nation, and will see twelve participants study safety, watersheds, water treatment and distribution, water chemistry and sampling, as well as tour the Lake St. Martin First Nation water treatment plant. This project was developed in collaboration with IRTC, with a focus on networking opportunities and sharing knowledge between the participating communities.

“Local, skilled people are critical in maintaining sustained access to clean water,” said John Millar, Executive Director of Water First. “We’re excited that the planning and collaboration with Interlake Reserves Tribal Council will result in this group pursuing further education and careers in the water sciences. We hope the success of this program leads to many more collaborative projects in Manitoba.”

Regarding the launch of the Internship, Interlake Reserves Tribal Council Chief Executive Officer, Karl Zadnik says, “On behalf of the Interlake Reserve Tribal Council, we are proud to be the first Communities in Manitoba to partner with Water First to establish a Water Treatment Internship program for our people. This opportunity will provide members of our communities with skills and training to pursue further education and certification in water and wastewater treatment, leading to a greater pool of water safety experts to serve our communities and beyond.”

During the 15-month internship program, each intern will accumulate 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in their home community water and/or wastewater treatment plants, which is a part of the certification process. As part of the program, interns pursue certification as small drinking water and small wastewater operators as well as Class 1 water treatment and wastewater treatment. Interns also round out their training with additional workshops in water quality analysis, introduction to environmental water sampling, introduction to mapping and Geographic Information Systems, as well as career readiness training.

These trainings can lead to work in both drinking water treatment, wastewater treatment, and environmental water careers. The Internship also encourages increased participation of women in the water sciences and offers wrap-around supports to reduce barriers to participation, including childcare services and transportation. Graduates of the program become part of the Water First Alumni Network, with access to continuing career development and education opportunities, as well as an ever-expanding professional network.

“I’m very happy to be a part of the Water First Internship. Sharing ideas and supporting each other while making those ideas become reality will be a huge boost for our respective communities and their water treatment programs,” shares Walter Spence of Peguis First Nation. “Water is sacred, it is where we began our journey in this world. Now, we are making career choices about working with water. It is a big responsibility but one we can manage by continuing to work together. I am very excited to learn what I can over the next 15 months.”

Sustainable access to safe, clean water in Indigenous communities in Canada continues to be a critical issue. In Canada, 14 percent of First Nations are affected by a drinking water advisory. The challenges are complex and layered. Communities may face issues relating to infrastructure, source water quality, or people to manage water systems – or more than one of these issues at a time. Water First works with Indigenous communities that have identified education and training as part of their solution to the water crisis. Safe water needs skilled people.

The IRTC Water First Internship is funded through Indigenous Services Canada, Indigenous Skills and Employment Training, and First People Development Inc., together with the support of Water First’s donors. This collaboration will support the IRTC in training future water operators and in increasing local, technical capacity and autonomy in the water management field for today and for generations to come.

This is Water First’s sixth Drinking Water Internship Program. To date, 46 interns from 31 Indigenous communities have graduated from Internship programs and logged approximately 117,000 hours working in local water plants and attending workshops.

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About Interlake Reserves Tribal Council Inc. (IRTC):
The Interlake Reserves Tribal Council Inc. consists of a partnership of seven (7) Manitoba Interlake communities working together to advance our collective well-being of members from the following communities:

Dauphin River First Nation
Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation
Lake Manitoba First Nation
Lake St. Martin First Nation
Little Saskatchewan First Nation
Peguis First Nation
Pinaymootang First Nation

Learn more at www.irtc.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Ami Gopal
Director of Development and Communications
Water First
1-800-970-8467 ext. 106
ami.gopal@waterfirst.ngo

Karl Zadnik
Chief Executive Officer
Interlake Reserves Tribal Council
(204) 956-7413
info@irtc.ca

Lasting results begin with strong relationships

February 22nd, 2024

Lasting results begin with strong relationships

2023 Annual Report

“For Water First, the most successful projects springboard into enhanced partnerships and deeper relationships. There’s no better feeling than getting invited back to collaborate on a new project.”

Cory Girard, Project Manager
Water First

With every collaboration Water First embarks on, we strive to first understand what the community wishes for the long term, and then offer support that leverages our technical expertise.

Our goal is to co-create sustainable positive outcomes that support each community’s priorities and goals, so the benefits of the work stay with the community for generations to come. Lasting results like this are built on strong relationships, meaningful collaboration, and trust.

This year, we launched a new partnership with the Ogemawahj Tribal Council (OTC), to train Indigenous young adults to become water treatment plant operators. The announcement was made in June 2023, but the initial conversations began many months prior. Investing time in conversations and listening to ensure we understood the goals of OTC and participating communities was a critical first step. From that foundation, and through ongoing work to nurture and support that relationship, the newest Internship Program was launched. This cohort of interns are on a journey to develop technical skills and certifications to be the next generation of water operators.

Strong relationships can also lead to ongoing collaborations, such as our Summer Credit Program. This multi-week, land-based, experiential learning program is full of fun, hands-on water science activities. While the main objective is for students to earn high school credits in subjects like geography or science, we deliver the program with partners in a way that embraces Indigenous culture: learning on the land, working with water and fish, and learning from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, local organizations, and community programs.

Sheshegwaning First Nation

Saugeen Ojibway Nation

Spotlight Story

Water First has been collaborating with Beausoleil First Nation since 2018. In summer 2023, Water First returned to southern Georgian Bay to deliver a third year of the Summer Credit Program, as well as a Drinking Water Internship in partnership with Ogemawahj Tribal Council, that welcomed two young adults from the community.

It is through sustained collaborations like these that we’ve developed – and continue to strengthen, relationships. Being invited to attend the school powwow in July was certainly a highlight of the season.

“We were touched and honoured to be invited to share in this amazing celebration of culture, and to get to see people that we’ve worked with and built relationships with,” said Dillon Koopmans, Water First’s Senior Manager, Education. “It really validated our relationship-first approach.”

Spotlight Story

Water First has been collaborating with Beausoleil First Nation since 2018. In summer 2023, Water First returned to southern Georgian Bay to deliver a third year of the Summer Credit Program, as well as a Drinking Water Internship in partnership with Ogemawahj Tribal Council, that welcomed two young adults from the community.

“We were touched and honoured to be invited to share in this amazing celebration of culture, and to get to see people that we’ve worked with and built relationships with,” said Dillon Koopmans, Water First’s Senior Manager, Education. “It really validated our relationship-first approach.”

When a community reaches out to us for support in implementing an environmental project or training strategy, it often marks the beginning of a long-term relationship. Just as with a shoal rehabilitation project, laying a solid foundation now can mean successful outcomes in years to come, as with Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation in Labrador. Collaboration with the Environmental Water team began in 2021, and has led not only to a long-term fish habitat monitoring program, but the partnership has facilitated enhanced monitoring plans and greater awareness of climate change-related challenges.

Water First is in a unique position to be able to work with individuals across different age groups – in-class workshops with school-aged children, young adults starting a journey to a career in water science, as well as Elders, parents, and partners who are working together towards community goals. Our focus on relationships and ongoing learning allows us to have a positive impact that can be felt for generations to come.

To read more stories like this, check out our

2023 Annual Report

Listening and adapting to community needs

January 19th, 2024

Listening and adapting to community needs

2023 Annual Report

“It was humbling to begin the week beside the water, being welcomed by Kookum Shirley’s Thanks Giving Prayer and student-sung honour song.

It brought a clear focus to the rest of the week and a shared goal between us and the students for the rest of the program.”

Tanya Sackaney, Indigenous School Engagement Coordinator
Water First

Adapting to the unique needs and priorities of each community we partner with is a hallmark of Water First’s approach.

Our robust programs are delivered in collaboration with many different communities and partners. We continually refine programs to make them more effective and efficient, and are constantly researching best practices and new approaches in education and training. However, delivering education and technical skills training programs that will have lasting results starts with listening and understanding what a community’s goals are. That’s why we embed flexibility in our planning, allowing us to be responsive and adapt to what each community wants to achieve.

Sometimes, adapting a program to better meet the needs of participants comes down to making minor changes that can have a big impact. This can look like changing the timing of a program module to better suit the needs of participants – like we did with the geographic information systems (GIS) training for our partnership with the Ogemawahj Tribal Council (OTC). Normally, GIS is offered much later in the program, but the community was interested in having interns apply skills right away, so it was moved closer to the beginning of training.

Adaptation can also look like changing the scope of a program after launch. A new collaboration with the Cree Nation Government (CNG) began with a water quality monitoring workshop for participants from the Cree Nation of Waswanipi, similar to previous work with the Cree Nation of Nemaska.

Spotlight Story

Water First began a partnership with Brunswick House First Nation (BHFN) in July 2022 to provide technical training to a team of passionate young participants. The community was interested in establishing a program that could track the effects of climate change on the waters and plants that they most heavily relied on. Water First’s role was to support the team in mastering their field and data collection skills.

The first field season was a great success, thanks to the confidence and capabilities that the team members demonstrated. Santana Vanbuskirk, the team lead, was inspired to continue this project and along with the Lands and Resouces Department, was keen to work with Water First again.

Taking time to understand the community’s vision, the group decided to adjust the climate monitoring program’s 2023 field season, slowing the pace of technical duties to create more space and time for cultural activities like water ceremony, and focusing on monitoring one specific lake – the community’s drinking water source – for contaminants from mining activities.

The 2023 field season – a successful adaptation based on community-led priorities – was ambitious, yet balanced the scientific work with moments to connect with the land and each other.

“My goal for this project is to create climate change awareness in the community and document long term effects of climate change.

I would like to see the Mountbatten Climate Change Project continue to strive for years to come.

Climate change means to me that Mother Earth is in pain and she needs more people to protect the water, the trees, the ground and everything in between.”

Santana Vanbuskirk, Environmental Water Program participant
Brunswick House First Nation

Spotlight Story

The 2023 field season – a successful adaptation based on community-led priorities – was ambitious, yet balanced the scientific work with moments to connect with the land and each other.

“My goal for this project is to create climate change awareness in the community and document long term effects of climate change.

I would like to see the Mountbatten Climate Change Project continue to strive for years to come.

Climate change means to me that Mother Earth is in pain and she needs more people to protect the water, the trees, the ground and everything in between.”

Santana Vanbuskirk, Environmental Water Program participant
Brunswick House First Nation

As discussions progressed, CNG identified the need for this training for participants from Ouje Bougoumou and a refresher for Nemaska participants. Our adaptable programs expanded a small workshop with Waswanipi into two weeks of training for thirteen participants, a complete lake survey, and new co-developed water quality monitoring plans for two different Cree communities.

In some cases, adapting a program can mean digging deeper into what a community wants to achieve in the long term. As relationships grow, we gain further insight into what a community’s objectives are, and we can create solutions together. With Innu Nation, our team worked with the community to build a new aquatic department, beginning with consultations and planning for the future, supporting with grant writing, and translating community priorities into a plan.

Water First engages students in outdoor experiential learning opportunities that integrate land-based teaching with guidance from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, water organizations, and community programs. These programs are adapted to local environments, school contexts, and traditions.

This is particularly impactful in a school setting, where students can be inspired by making connections between a water science workshop and something already happening in their school or community. Integration like this was especially evident in our collaboration with the community of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg.

Kitigan Zibi School reached out to us about collaborating on a water-themed week that also encompassed World Water Day. The team was able to work with every class from kindergarten to grade 12 at the school, taking each group outside to learn about environmental water quality indicators on the frozen lake. Indigenous Guardians also led two groups of students in looking at the water quality of a natural spring in the community. Learning on the land, and relating the learning to local traditions and contexts, helped to align the program with the community’s own interests and goals.

Spotlight Story

Water First has been partnering with Sagamok Anishnawbek over the past few years on water science programs. Our visit in June 2023 was going to be a major milestone: for the first time in our history, all three Water First program areas – a Schools Program, the Environmental Water Program, and the Drinking Water Program – were set to happen in the same community at the same time.

Things didn’t go exactly as planned, due to the impact of wildfires that were threatening northern Ontario and Quebec. But this change in plans presented an opportunity for the community to come together to address a pressing challenge. And sometimes Water First is lucky to be there, in the community, to support these efforts.

“When you’re working in the field, Mother Nature will do her thing, or other challenges will arise that mean you have to change priorities or adapt plans.

At Water First, we’re led by community-identified priorities. We strive to be flexible, understanding, and supportive – even if all we can do is postpone a program so community members can focus on other priorities.

We are honoured to be able to support community partners in any way we can.”

Mason Prout, Communications & Development Specialist
Water First

Spotlight Story

“When you’re working in the field, Mother Nature will do her thing, or other challenges will arise that mean you have to change priorities or adapt plans.

We are honoured to be able to support community partners in any way we can.”

Mason Prout, Communications & Development Specialist
Water First

Successful collaborations start with strong relationships, and strong relationships are built on communication, respect, and trust. For Water First, nurturing and strengthening these relationships involves continuous engagement, regular check-ins, and being open to feedback, which all help to ensure that our programs are successful in meeting each community’s unique needs. Through a focus on dialogue, program evaluation, and reciprocal learning, we can support a community in achieving lasting results.

To read more stories like this, check out our

2023 Annual Report

Nurturing connections between interns, peers and communities

January 18th, 2024

Nurturing connections between interns, peers, and communities

2023 Annual Report

“When interns become alumni, they will continue to have the support of the Water First staff. But they also leave with an entire cohort of supporters. No matter where they end up post-internship, they will always have the connections that they built through their fifteen months together.”

Jacey Bonertz, Technical Trainer & Project Coordinator
Water First

Participants in a Water First program can count on developing new technical skills related to water sciences or resource management that are aligned with a community’s long-term goals. Beyond these outcomes, it’s the connections developed between interns, peers, and communities that will stand the test of time.

Interpersonal connections are nurtured and deepened in collaborations that continue past one successful project – like our collaboration with the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach in northern Quebec since 2018. In a testament to the long-term nature of the relationship, participants from past projects shared their knowledge from previous training with new participants to help the team pick up the skills they needed.

Graduates of the Drinking Water Internship Program achieve the technical skills and valuable certifications that will serve them on their path to employment in water treatment or to further education. But for many interns, one of the most rewarding aspects of the program is the connections they make. Kyle Porter, a 2023 graduate from Garden River First Nation, had this to say: “I joined because I was seeking an opportunity to become involved in my community, and also to learn new skills. Personally, I find that being able to contribute to the community I belong to brings me closer to my family and friends.”

Spotlight Story

In the spring of 2023, staff from Water First attended the annual Aboriginal Water and Wastewater Association of Ontario (AWWAO) training conference and trade show in Rama First Nation. Nathan Pamajewon, a graduate of the Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship Program from Shawanaga First Nation, helped organize a special Alumni Network event to bring together graduates and current interns.

“Water is life, and I consider this to be an honour to keep it protected for now and the future. I’m glad I learned the process and how to take pride in your work and in keeping everyone safe.”

Nathan Pamajewon, Alumni
Shawanaga First Nation

Spotlight Story

“Water is life, and I consider this to be an honour to keep it protected for now and the future. I’m glad I learned the process and how to take pride in your work and in keeping everyone safe.”

Nathan Pamajewon, Alumni
Shawanaga First Nation

Upon graduation, Drinking Water interns are encouraged to join Water First’s Alumni Network. As alumni, they can access ongoing support for their professional journeys in the water science field: access to a newly unveiled online portal, educational opportunities, funding, and a community of fellow professionals to cheer each other on. Revamped and enhanced in 2023, the Alumni Network is a hub for networking, professional development, and ongoing connections with Water First staff and other graduates.

Water First programs also facilitate connections and support reciprocal learning between communities. Environmental Water participants, for example, often have the opportunity to share their learnings and experiences with peers at conferences and community presentations. The connections that develop through Water First partnerships sustain results well into the future.

Spotlight Story

Jaylen Andre, from the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach, began his journey with Water First through school workshops when he was 14 years old, in May 2022. He learned about watersheds and water chemistry using Water Rangers kits, which are water quality testing kits designed for educators. Jaylen got to meet Water First’s environmental team and participants, and see the “big kid” versions of the water quality equipment. Jaylen enjoyed the experience so much that he ended up getting hired through a collaboration with the community to work throughout the summer, learning how to do water and fish sampling.

In February 2023, Jaylen, along with two other Naskapi participants, travelled from Kawawachikamach, Quebec to Park Lake, Labrador for a winter water monitoring workshop. At Park Lake, Jaylen made an impression on the guides from Sheshatshiu Innu Nation — they liked working with the Naskapi, and specifically with Jaylen as a youth. They were impressed by his passion and enthusiasm, and by how much he loves being on the land.

Spotlight Story

To read more stories like this, check out our

2023 Annual Report

Drinking Water Internship Program

October 31st, 2023

Tapping Into Opportunities

Drinking Water Internship Program | Fall 2023

Why Is Each Drinking Water Internship Unique?

Because it Works.

To date, Water First’s Drinking Water Internship Program is about engaging with, and listening to, the specific needs and priorities of the communities it serves. This means solutions are tailored to the unique challenges and circumstances of each community.

The program focuses on training and skill development for young Indigenous adults, recognizing that technology alone is insufficient to ensure access to safe drinking water. Interns gain technical skills, experience and confidence to help address the immediate need for safe drinking water while also ensuring a future generation of leaders.

Water First has collaborated with 37 First Nations communities through the Drinking Water Program. Interns have worked more than 90,000 hours in their local water plants, and 46 interns have successfully graduated from the program.

Graduation Day! 🎓

Celebrating the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators

In late September 2023, Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council (NSTC), in collaboration with Water First, celebrated the graduation of 11 interns from their 15-month Drinking Water Internship Program. This marks Water First’s fourth successful Drinking Water Internship Program completed to date.

Over the course of the program, each Intern accumulated 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in local water treatment plants, essential in achieving Water Operator in Training (OIT) certification. In addition Interns pursued training in water quality analysis, GIS, and water sampling, broadening their skill set and expanding their potential career opportunities in water treatment and in the environmental water field.

The NSTC Drinking Water Internship Program was funded through the North Shore Tribal Council member First Nations employment and training program, together with the support of Water First donors. This collaboration highlights the importance of collective efforts in tackling complex issues like access to clean water.

Watch the video below to enjoy a recap of the celebrations!

“Clean, safe, potable drinking water is a fundamental need in our communities. The success of this program has enhanced our community’s capacity to meet future demand. Congratulations to our Interns who worked hard to achieve their certifications in the water industry. We are proud of your accomplishments.”

Allan Moffatt, CEO
Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council

Experiential and Hands On Learning Leads to Success

Highlights from our latest internship

Water First’s latest internship, in partnership with Ogemawahj Tribal Council (OTC), began this past June with 8 Interns, from 5 participating communities, embarking on a 15-month paid Drinking Water Internship Program. Set to graduate in September 2025, Interns will pursue valuable provincial certifications, gain experience working at local water treatment plants and kick-start their careers in water.

Over the summer, the group studied legislation and safety, water treatment, water chemistry, water distribution, and mathematics. It was a lot to retain but Water First Educators are known for making lessons engaging and fun. Experiential learning is part of all Water First training. Jonathan, one of the community water operators, graciously toured Interns through the Mississaugas Of Scugog Island First Nation Water Treatment Facility, allowing Interns to see their learning at work. Hands-on learning, another hallmark of Water First training, was applied as Interns skillfully created models of drinking water treatment plants using anything they could get their hands on! All of this hard work culminated with OTC Interns writing their Operator-in-Training exam.⁠ Well done interns!

In the coming weeks the Interns will gather to prepare and study for their Entry Level Course and exam, a mandatory course run by Walkerton Clean Water Centre. The Entry Level Course provides new operators with a basic understanding of water characteristics and pathogens, treatment and distribution processes, and the regulations that govern water quality.

Staying Connected

Water First's Alumni Network

With Water First’s Drinking Water Internship, the learning doesn’t stop when the program finishes. Through the Water First Alumni Network, Interns remain engaged, build local networks and access opportunities for ongoing professional development and peer support.

Water First recently launched additional supports for our Alumni Network. This includes a new site, which is a one-stop shop for resources, information, access to the Professional Development Fund, links to various job boards to aid in job searches, and director-certified courses. An interactive photo and video gallery for Interns to stay connected and engaged. And the discussion board also creates a space for Alumni to share with each other and Water First staff.

In Their Words

Elijah and Kayla

“Working at a water treatment plant is hard work but it’s also rewarding.”

Listen to more of our conversation with Elijah Toulouse, Drinking Water Graduate and his coworkers, Kayla and Jaiden, on their work at the Sagamok Anishnawbek water treatment plant.

Play Video

Save the date: November 30 🗓

Get ready for our next virtual event

Interested in hearing from participants in the Drinking Water Internship Program? Mark your calendar for Safe Water Needs Skilled People!

Join us on November 30th at 12:00-1:30 PM ET (9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 1:00 PM AT, 1:30 PM NFLD) for an opportunity to hear impactful stories from Water First staff, interns and graduates of our programs and from our Indigenous Advisory Council.

New Year, New Internship

Launching our 6th internship in the new year

Water First is looking forward to launching the next Drinking Water Internship Program in Manitoba in the new year. This program will mark the first internship outside of Ontario. It’s been a long journey to get us to this point, developing new materials based on different provincial requirements. Stay tuned for an official announcement in the coming months!

There is so much to celebrate:
New graduates from the program, current interns engaged and seeing success, and a new internship set to launch soon. All of this is possible thanks to our generous supporters. Thank you!

Thank you for supporting Drinking Water interns on their path to careers in water science!

Fall 2023

October 20th, 2023

Quarterly Newsletter

Drinking Water

The latest news and updates on our programs.

Graduation Day! 🎓

Celebrating the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators

Graduation often marks the end of a journey. For the Indigenous youth and community members of Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council, who recently completed their Drinking Water Internship Program, graduation is just the beginning.

In late September Mamaweswen and Water First celebrated 11 interns on their graduation from the 15-month Drinking Water Internship Program. The Internship includes a paid training program where interns obtain entry-level certifications required to begin careers in water treatment. Sustainable access to safe, clean water in Indigenous communities in Canada continues to be a critical issue, and as qualified, local personnel, graduates bring technical skills and capacity to communities to ensure access to safe, clean drinking water for the long term.

Following graduation, interns join the Water First Alumni Network to stay engaged, build local networks and access opportunities for ongoing professional development and peer support.

“In the last 15 months, here with Water First, I’ve seen that we don’t have to look too far for inspiration and that we each have the potential to make that inspiring contribution to others. When you leave here today, celebrate what you’ve accomplished, but look forward with an eye towards how you too can be that inspiration to others.”

Nigel Debassige, Valedictorian
Atikameksheng Anishnawbek

The North Shore Tribal Council Drinking Water Internship Program began in June 2022 and marks Water First’s fourth successful Drinking Water Internship Program completed to date. The program was funded through the North Shore Tribal Council member First Nations employment and training program, together with the support of Water First donors.

Water First has collaborated with 37 First Nations communities through the Drinking Water Internship Program. Interns have worked approximately 98,000 hours in their local water plant, and 46 interns have successfully graduated from the program. A fifth internship program is underway with Ogemawahj Tribal Council, and Manitoba’s first internship program is soon to be launched.

Over the course of the North Shore Tribal Council Drinking Water Internship Program, each intern accumulated 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in water treatment plants, which is part of the water operator in training (OIT) certification process. Interns pursued additional water operator certification exams, including water quality analyst and technical training like GIS and water sampling, leading to jobs in water treatment and in the environmental water field.

In Canada, 14% of First Nations communities are affected by a drinking water advisory; in Ontario, it’s 25%. The challenges are complex and layered. Communities may face issues relating to infrastructure, source water quality, or having enough trained people to manage water systems – or more than one of these issues at a time. Water First works with Indigenous communities that have identified education and training as part of their solution to the water crisis. Safe water needs skilled people. Learn more at www.waterfirst.ngo.

Allan Moffatt, CEO
Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council

Up and Running 🏃🏽‍♂️

Our 5th Internship Program is well underway

The latest Internship Program, a partnership with Ogemawahj Tribal Council, was launched in June 2023, with 7 interns from 5 communities beginning their journeys to becoming water treatment plant operators. After gathering in Rama First Nation to complete the first of many in-person training workshops together over the course of the program, the group is now in full swing. The group has also already gathered for a week to explore the importance of mapping and GIS and to prepare for and write their Operator in Training and small systems exams. Next, the group will gather in early November to prepare for and write their Entry Level Course exam.

Save the date: November 30th! 🗓

Get ready for our next virtual event

Interested in hearing from participants in the Drinking Water Internship Program? Mark your calendar for Safe Water Needs Skilled People! Join us on November 30th at 12:00-1:30 PM ET (9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 1:00 PM AT, 1:30 PM NFLD) for an opportunity to hear impactful stories from Water First staff, interns and graduates of our programs and from our Indigenous Advisory Council. Click the button below to RSVP.

Summer Success Stories ☀️

Earning high school credits through experiential learning

Earning high school credits is a priority for Water First and our students. We make this happen in our Summer Credit Program by emphasizing learning in a relevant and meaningful way. Integrating learning on local lands with guidance and teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, water organizations and community programs, translates to buy-in from students, a love of learning, and ultimately success.

This Summer Credit Program, co-delivered by certified educators at Water First along with plenty of community collaborators, is a multi-week education program for youth in school in Indigenous communities. By participating in the land-based, experiential learning program, which is full of fun, hands-on water science activities and collaborations, students gain a Geography or Environmental Science high school credit! Students gain credits towards high school graduation in a way that meets their needs, allowing them to continue in their learning journey. Hands-on, experiential learning is prioritized as an alternative to mainstream teaching methods.

For the third year in a row, the program was delivered this summer with students from Beausoleil First Nation on Christian Island, as well as a second year of programming with students from Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and Saugeen First Nation on the Bruce Peninsula, and new this year, the Schools team worked with students from Sheshegwaning First Nation on Manitoulin Island.

Water First awarded 33 high school credits as a result of this summer’s credit program!

We’re excited to announce that communities continue to show interest in our summer programs, and we are exploring additional programs with partners. Stay tuned for future updates.

“During this week, some students told me they struggle to focus when sitting at a desk all day and often get removed from their school classrooms for being too disruptive. Yet these students were some of the most engaged and inquisitive participants in this outdoor experiential learning program.

I ended the week with a quiet realization that we were helping students, who simply may not fit into the mold of a traditional classroom, be successful and achieve their goals.”

Caleb Girard, reflecting on his time with students from Saugeen First Nation and Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation

Our 3rd year of partnering on a Summer Credit Program with Beausoleil First Nation

2 years of partnering with students from Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and Saugeen First Nation

New this year: a Summer Credit Program delivered to students from Sheshegwaning First Nation

Meet Aiden 👋🏼

Aiden began his journey with Water First as a student in a week-long school program back in 2019. Since then Aiden has participated in four Water First school workshops and Water First’s Summer Credit Program. In addition to learning the ins and outs of water sampling and tackling the local phragmites problem Aiden enjoyed the plethora of outdoor activities, like kayaking, which are integral parts to Water First Programming.

This past summer Aiden joined Water first once again but this time as an assistant! Thank you Aiden for all your valuable help over the past few months assisting with in-school workshops and all of our outdoor learning.

Better Together 🌊

Deeper relationships lead to greater impact

At Water First, there’s no better feeling than getting invited back to a community to collaborate on a new project. For Water First, the most successful projects springboard into enhanced partnerships and deeper relationships. When Cory Girard, Project Manager for environmental water at Water First, returned to Brunswick House First Nation (BHFN) in early July 2023, she experienced this feeling firsthand.

Brunswick House First Nation is located about 150 kilometres northeast of Sault Ste. Marie. Girard has visited the community three times over the past year to train BHFN staff on the technical aspects of their climate change monitoring program, by tracking the effects of climate change on the waters and plants most heavily relied on by the community. After a successful field season in 2022, Water First was asked to return for training on a new-and-improved climate change monitoring program.

Read more about the inspiring journey of Santana, Shawn, Paradise and the growing BHFN team, who have worked tirelessly over the past year to enhance their climate change monitoring program, highlighting the connections of cultural activities like water ceremonies and careful observation of plants, animals and water sources to climate action.

“My goal for this project is to create climate change awareness in the community and document the long-term effects of climate change. I would like to see the Mountbatten Climate Change Project continue to strive for years to come.

Climate change means to me that Mother Earth is in pain, and she needs more people to protect the water, the trees, the ground and everything in between.”

Santana Vanbuskirk, Environmental Water Program Intern
Brunswick House First Nation

Participants from Brunswick House First Nation collecting water samples

Park Lake, Labrador 🎣

Restoration for the future

After acquiring an old fishing lodge on Park Lake, Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation (SIFN) in central Labrador is embarking on a 10-year journey to clean up and improve the lodge site to run a 100% Innu-owned and operated tourism lodge, just south of Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve. In 2021, Water First began working with SIFN to develop a long-term fish habitat monitoring and fish habitat restoration program for Park Lake.

For the second time in 2023, members from the Environmental Water team returned to beautiful Park Lake in June, spending two weeks out on the water trapping fish with Fyke nets for assessment. The team also continued the water quality monitoring work that has been conducted over the past two years.

The team visited once more in September, working with Elders, looking at habitats for fish species like brook trout and salmon, going over data management techniques and getting the opportunity to collaborate with local Knowledge Keepers on the continuation of the project.

Charity Intelligence ⭐️

Water First Gets 5 Stars

Water First has been rated a 100 charity in Canada and was given 5 stars by Charity Intelligence, an organization that conducts assessments of charitable organizations to promote transparency and accountability with a focus on results. Charitable Intelligence’s rating is based on financial transparency, results reporting, demonstrated impact, need for funding, and cents to the cause.

Fall greetings from Water First!

From all of us, thank you for being a supporter and champion of Water First’s mission.

Celebrating the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators looking to inspire others

September 26th, 2023

Internship graduates bring technical skills and capacity to critical water issues

Sault Ste. Marie, ON, September 26, 2023 – Graduation often marks the end of a journey. For the Indigenous youth and community members who recently completed a training program to become certified water treatment plant operators, graduation is just the beginning.

“Our time and weeks of training together will always have a spot in my heart. On graduation day, too, we look outside for inspiration to drive us forwards, but I see that inspiration right here among us,” shared valedictorian Nigel Debassige, from Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation.

Last Friday, September 22, Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council and Water First Education & Training Inc. celebrated Debassige and the 11 interns who graduated from the 15-month Drinking Water Internship program for local Indigenous youth and young adults.

“Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council looks for partnerships that will enhance the communities to the highest standards possible,” said Allan Moffatt, CEO of Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council. “The Water First Internship program was a ‘win-win-win opportunity.’ First Nations obtain Water Plant Operators; Tribal Council involvement with a proven training program for youth and water departments; Water First further develops their Programming with our communities. Clean, safe, potable drinking water is a fundamental need in our communities, the success of this program has enhanced our community’s capacity to meet future demand. Congratulations to our Interns who worked hard to achieve their certifications in the water industry, we are proud of your accomplishments.”

Sustainable access to safe, clean water in Indigenous communities in Canada continues to be a critical issue. The graduates completed the paid training program to obtain entry-level certifications required to begin their careers in water treatment. As qualified, local personnel, they bring technical skills and capacity to communities to ensure access to safe, clean drinking water for the long term.

Over the course of the program, each intern accumulated 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in water treatment plants, which is a part of the water operator in training (OIT) certification process. Interns also pursued additional water operator certification exams including water quality analyst and the entry-level course for drinking water operators, as well as other technical training like GIS and water sampling which can lead to work in water treatment and the environmental water field.

Following graduation, interns join the Water First Alumni Network to stay engaged, build local networks and access opportunities for ongoing professional development and peer support.

“It’s been a pleasure seeing their confidence grow throughout the past 15 months,” said Kendra Driscoll, Senior Manager of the Drinking Water Internship at Water First. “With training and mentorship by our staff, the tribal council, and dedicated community water operators, the interns have had the opportunity to build critical skills needed to be successful water treatment plant operators. I wish them all the best for the future, and look forward to seeing them as part of the alumni network.”

The North Shore Tribal Council Drinking Water Internship Program began in June 2022, and marks the fourth successful internship program completed to date. The program was funded through the North Shore Tribal Council member First Nations employment and training program, together with the support of Water First’s donors. A fifth internship program is underway with Ogemawahj Tribal Council, and another internship is soon to be launched for the first time in Manitoba.

Water First has collaborated with 37 First Nations communities through the Drinking Water Internship, where interns have worked approximately 98,000 hours in their local water plants. To date, 46 interns have graduated from the program.

Debassige went on to share, “In the last 15 months here with Water First, I’ve seen that we don’t have to look too far for inspiration and that we each have the potential to make that inspiring contribution to others. When you leave here today, celebrate what you’ve accomplished, but look forward with an eye towards how you too can be that inspiration to others.”

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About Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council:
NSTC’s mandate is to assist and facilitate the activities of the member communities of the North Shore Tribal Council. In a manner that promotes the cultural, spiritual, political, economic, environmental and social well being of the member First Nations, the Tribal Council acts to serve three primary functions:

Research, develop and deliver regionally based products and services to member communities when directed by NSTC member communities
Provide advisory services to member communities
Provide collective political support to advance the betterment of First Nations people

Learn more at: https://mamaweswen.com

About Water First Education & Training Inc. (Water First):
Water First is a registered Canadian charity that works alongside Indigenous communities to address water challenges through education, training and meaningful collaboration. Since 2009, Water First has collaborated with over 80 Indigenous communities located in the lands now known as Canada while supporting Indigenous youth and young adults to pursue careers in water science. Learn more: www.waterfirst.ngo

For more information, please contact:

Ami Gopal
Director of Development and Communications
Water First
1-800-970-8467 ext. 106
ami.gopal@waterfirst.ngo

Allan Moffatt
Chief Executive Officer
Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council
1-877-633-7558
allanm@mamaweswen.ca

Ogemawahj Tribal Council and Water First announce new training internship for water treatment plant operators

July 13th, 2023

Partnership supports technical skills development and community capacity for water resources management

Rama First Nation, July 13, 2023 – Water First Education & Training Inc., in partnership with Ogemawahj Tribal Council (OTC) and participating communities, is pleased to announce a new water treatment plant operator training program for local Indigenous youth and young adults. Interns from five First Nations communities will participate in the 15-month paid program to pursue valuable provincial certifications, which help trainees begin their careers in the water field.

The internship kicked off in June in Rama First Nation with eight interns from communities in the Tribal Council area. During their first week, interns began with learning about and participating in a water ceremony, and then dove into learning about watersheds, water treatment processes, and math and chemistry.

One highlight of the first week was a tour of the Rama First Nation water distribution system and the drinking water treatment plant. Chad McRae, the Overall Responsible Operator, took the interns on a tour of the distribution system where they got to see the inside of a water tower. This tour gave the interns a greater understanding of underground infrastructure and the conventional water treatment steps, which interns are required to know for their tests.

“On behalf of the OTC Board of Directors, we are thrilled to welcome this amazing opportunity to partner with Water First to train our Nation’s members in Water Treatment. This type of expertise will provide our members with opportunities to utilize their skills in our communities and also provide a pool of skilled workers that can be utilized in any community, Ontario wide.”

Mary McCue-King, Executive Director

Ogemawahj Tribal Council

During the 15-month internship program, each intern will accumulate 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in water treatment plants, which is a part of the certification process. As part of the program, interns pursue Operator in Training (OIT), Entry Level Course (ELC), and Water Quality Analyst (WQA) certifications, which, along with additional workshops like introduction to mapping and GIS, and introduction to environmental water, can lead to work in both drinking water treatment and environmental water careers.

“Local, qualified personnel are critical to ensuring sustainable access to safe water,” said John Millar, executive director at Water First. “Through the Drinking Water Internship collaboration with Ogemawahj Tribal Council, interns gain important skills and experience towards future careers in the water sciences, as well as employability skills and access to an Alumni Network. We are excited to be embarking on this partnership with Ogemawahj Tribal Council and supporting the interns on their education and employment journeys.”

The OTC Water First Internship is partly funded through Ogemawahj Tribal Council, member First Nation resources and the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, together with the support of Water First’s donors. This collaboration will support the OTC in training future water operators and in increasing local, technical capacity and autonomy in the water management field, for today and for generations to come.

Water First has already successfully implemented four internship partnerships, with the fourth internship approaching graduation in the fall of 2023. To date, through Water First’s Drinking Water Internship Program, 48 interns from 31 Indigenous communities have passed their Operator in Training exams and logged approximately 81,000 hours working in local water plants and attending workshops.

Kyle Porter, an intern in the North Shore Tribal Council internship from Garden River First Nation, said, “I joined because I was seeking an opportunity to become involved in my community, and also to learn new skills. Personally, I find that being able to contribute to the community I belong to brings me closer to my family and friends.”

“I initially joined the internship program because it lined up with my interest in environmental science, and for the opportunity to grow in my career and have stable employment,” said Laura Mallinson, an internship graduate from Nipissing First Nation.”The training and certifications open doors to so many opportunities. In the community, having more local people trained as water operators means we can do more preventative maintenance and daily tasks, and not just react to issues. There are more trained people who can help keep the water flowing.”

Sustainable access to safe, clean water in Indigenous communities in Canada continues to be a critical issue. In Canada, 14% of First Nations communities are affected by a drinking water advisory; in Ontario, it’s 25%. The challenges are complex and layered. Communities may face issues relating to infrastructure, source water quality or people to manage water systems – or more than one of these issues at a time. Water First works with Indigenous communities that have identified education and training as part of their solution to the water crisis. Safe water needs skilled people.

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About Ogemawahj Tribal Council:

The Ogemawahj Tribal Council provides superior professional and technical services to its six member First Nations: Alderville, Beausoleil, Georgina Island, Moose Deer Point, Rama, and Scugog Island. The Board of Directors is comprised of the Chief and one Elder from each member community. The Executive Director and Board of Directors provide direction to the organization in its strategic planning, capacity and policy development. To assist in these activities, the Tribal Council maintains highly skilled technical staff to support its efforts in helping their communities to prosper. Learn more: https://www.ogemawahj.on.ca.

About Water First Education & Training Inc. (Water First)

Water First is a registered Canadian charity that works alongside Indigenous communities to address water challenges through education, training and meaningful collaboration. Since 2009, Water First has collaborated with more than 70 Indigenous communities located in the lands now known as Canada while supporting Indigenous youth and young adults to pursue careers in water science. Learn more: www.waterfirst.ngo.

For more information, please contact:

Ami Gopal
Director of Development and Communications
Water First
1-905-805-0854
ami.gopal@waterfirst.ngo

Mary McCue-King
Executive Director
Ogemawahj Tribal Council
249-385-6072
MMcCue-King@ogemawahj.on.ca

Adaptability in Action

June 20th, 2023

Written by Mason Prout, Communications & Development Specialist at Water First

Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation is located on the north shore of Lake Huron, in the stunning landscape along the Spanish River. It’s a community with more than 2,000 members – the largest First Nations community on the north shore, and the only one with a K-8 school. Water First has been partnering with Sagamok Anishnawbek over the past few years, and we’re continuing to build a strong relationship. Our Schools Program was in the community this June to deliver weeklong water science programs to students at the local school, Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik, for the third year in a row.

But the Schools Program wasn’t the only Water First team in Sagamok Anishnawbek. For the first time in our history, all three of our program areas – the Schools Program, the Environmental Water Program, and the Drinking Water Internship Program – were happening at the same time in the same community, all working towards sustainable access to safe, clean water.

This year, I had the amazing opportunity to visit Sagamok Anishnawbek with the Schools Program to help deliver the workshop and see all our programs in action. I didn’t know it at the time, but I would also get to see the amazing adaptability of our team and the community in action as well.

My trip to Sagamok Anishnawbek was a doozy – it’s a 10-hour drive from Thunder Bay – but everything was so beautiful that I didn’t mind. Scenic beaches, rugged rocky shoreline, and a road that seemed like it could go on forever. The skies were a little hazy, and I assumed smoke was drifting in from far-away fires.

Previous to this trip, I had visited Kenora twice to support the Drinking Water Internship Program, and also helped with a Schools Program in Thunder Bay, but this was my first time being part of the team delivering a program in a First Nations community. Working on the communications and fundraising teams at Water First for nearly 3 years, I typically support our programs from behind the scenes, but being able to support our programs in community is so important for giving me the real-world, on-the-ground context needed to do my job well, so I really appreciated an opportunity like this.

We were all excited to get started. So much was happening! Sarah Allemang, the program coordinator, led the programming with the school. The Drinking Water Internship Program, in partnership with Mamaweswen, the North Shore Tribal Council, is nearing its end after over a year of interns pursuing certifications and working in local water treatment plants. Elijah Toulouse, an intern from Sagamok Anishnawbek, is looking forward to potentially working at the community’s water treatment plant – where he’s been gaining experience throughout the program – after graduation. The Environmental Water Program was kicking off a new project to restore walleye spawning shoals, with help from local participants, Fabian and Max. Brooke Harrison, another Water First team member, was there to support the both Environmental and Drinking Water teams.

Safe, clean water in communities requires effort from many people working in different areas. Water First strives to create opportunities for Indigenous youth and young adults to collaborate with community members working in the field of water science, and this visit was shaping up to provide that opportunity.

The original plan was for students to visit Fort La Cloche – just a short drive away – to see what Fabian and Max were working on to support the health of local walleye populations, and to visit the local water treatment plant to learn from the people who keep the water safe and clean.

On the morning of our first day of programming, as we are preparing to start a much-anticipated week of cross-program collaborations, we received word that a forest fire had started close by at Fort La Cloche. We knew there were fires all over Ontario, but hadn’t realized we’d be affected by ones so close. More fires began to pop up north of the community, where Sagamok Anishnawbek owns and operates a tourism lodge. Fabian and Max, the two participants hired for the walleye project, are part of the local volunteer fire crew and were recruited to help control the fires.

The skies were hazy, and the smell of fire was in the air all day. The entire community was on alert, and everyone was ready to help with whatever was needed. The Water First team looked to the community for guidance on what programs could proceed. The fish habitat project had to be put on hold for the week. The Schools Program was able to continue with workshops, although we had to adapt our programming since the planned collaborations with other Water First program areas wouldn’t be possible. Sarah, Brooke, and I all helped with daily prep, setup, takedown, and keeping the students engaged. We checked in with the school regularly to make sure we could do programming outside.

I honestly didn’t know how tiring this work could be! But I was excited to be there and help out in any way I could. I loved chatting with students while we were doing the activities and after the lessons were done.

The wildfires put a twist into our plans for the week, and I quickly understood that’s just the reality of this kind of work. When you’re working in the field, Mother Nature will do her thing, or other challenges will arise that mean you have to change priorities or adapt plans.

These kinds of challenges also present opportunities for the community to come together to address a pressing challenge. And sometimes Water First is lucky to be there, in the community, to support these efforts.

At Water First, we’re led by community-identified priorities. We strive to be flexible, understanding, and supportive – even if all we can do is postpone a program so community members can focus on other priorities. We are honoured to be able to support community partners in any way we can.

Our Drinking Water Internship Program is another way we can support communities, especially when it comes to the increasing threat of wildfire. Drinking Water interns are training to become water operators, playing a critical role in protecting their communities – not only do these individuals provide communities with safe, clean drinking water, but they also ensure there is enough water to respond to fire emergencies. The contributions of water operators are essential.

As my week in Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation came to a close, I looked back on all that I had experienced during my time there – the beauty of the landscape, the energy of the students, the haze and smoke from the fires, and the adaptability of community members and my colleagues. Despite our plans not working out how we had originally wanted, it was beautiful to see everyone respond with hope and resilience, and with a shared passion for protecting the land and water. I’m truly grateful I could be there to witness it.

Drinking Water Internship Program

June 14th, 2023

Charting new waters with the Drinking Water Internship Program

Drinking Water Internship Program | Summer 2023

New Drinking Water Internship collaboration with Ogemawahj Tribal Council

Water First is excited to announce a new Drinking Water Internship program with Ogemawahj Tribal Council (OTC)! This new internship launched this week, and interns from Rama First Nation, Beausoleil First Nation, Mississaugas of Scugog Island and Alderville First Nation have already started digging into their training. Over the course of this 15-month program, interns will accumulate more than 2,000 hours of on-the-job training in water treatment plants as they prepare to take certification exams. The certifications – Operator in Training (OIT), Entry Level Course (ELC), and Water Quality Analyst (WQA) – can lead to work in drinking water treatment.

One highlight from the first week was a tour of the Rama First Nation water treatment plant. With guidance from the Operator in Charge, interns got an introduction to what working in a water treatment plant is all about. They have a full program ahead of them, so stay tuned for more updates to come!

Mentors making a difference in Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation

Elijah Toulouse, from Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, is an intern in the current Drinking Water Internship Program, a partnership with Mamaweswen, the North Shore Tribal Council. Throughout the internship, Elijah and the other interns work at a local water treatment plant to gain valuable experience and hours to become certified water treatment plant operators.

In these facilities, the interns work alongside the community’s current water treatment plant operators and learn from their experience. Having a supervisor who is eager to support the interns and show them the ropes is essential to ensure the interns get the most out of the 15 months, and ultimately supports greater local capacity to manage the facility.

Kayla Abitong is the water operator at Sagamok Anishnawbek’s local facility and has been Elijah’s supervisor during the program. During a recent visit to the community, Kayla – who has been incredibly supportive of the program and of Elijah – shared her thoughts on what it means to have an intern like Elijah working at the plant with her.

Our experience has been great. Elijah's been a big help and a big support for our community. Not only is he learning about our water system, but the extra help with some of the jobs and projects that we are experiencing in the past year are needed. I enjoy having the extra set of hands.

Kayla Abitong, Water Treatment Plant Operator
Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation

After graduation later this year, Elijah will be trained, qualified, and with a bright future ahead of him in the water sciences.

Interns rise to the challenge of the WQA exam

A Water Quality Analyst (WQA) plays a critical role in testing water quality in a water system and ensuring the water is safe. For interns in the North Shore Tribal Council internship program, working towards WQA certification is a major milestone on the path to a career in water science.

The two-week WQA Workshop, hosted and facilitated by members of the Water First team earlier this spring, gave the interns a deep dive into this critical aspect of water safety. From the fundamentals of water science and chemistry math, to understanding disinfection methods and water legislation, the interns worked non-stop – except for a few breaks for pizza and a cookie challenge.

The best part of these two intense weeks? 87% of the interns passed the exam! This is the highest pass rate to date since the start of the WQA workshops. Congratulations to the interns and the training facilitators for this achievement!

Graduates and interns connect at a special alumni networking event

Earlier this spring, staff from Water First attended the annual Aboriginal Water and Wastewater Association of Ontario (AWWAO) training conference and trade show in Rama First Nation. The team had the opportunity to talk with attendees about the importance of skilled people for providing safe water. It’s always incredible to connect with individuals who share our vision.

At the conference, we also celebrated the launch of an enhanced Alumni Network for graduates of the Drinking Water Internship Program! Graduates and current interns from the area joined us for a special networking event. We shared details about the new online Alumni Network platform, which will give graduates a place to stay connected and access ongoing supports such as educational opportunities and funding, and cheer each other on their journeys into the water sciences.

North Shore interns gearing up for graduation this fall

Interns in the North Shore Tribal Council internship program are in the final stretch of the program! After more than a year of on-the-job training, career exploration, hard work and exams, the interns are eagerly awaiting graduation at the end of September. Stay tuned for more details to come about how we’ll be celebrating their achievements.

Thank you for supporting Drinking Water interns on their path to careers in water science!

Diving Into Water Quality Analysis: Two weeks of workshops, learning, and connection

May 16th, 2023

A Water Quality Analyst (WQA) plays a critical role in testing water quality in a water system and ensuring the water is safe. For participants in Water First’s Drinking Water Internship Program, working towards WQA certification is a major milestone on the path to a career in water science.

The two-week WQA Workshop, hosted and facilitated by members of the Water First team, gives the interns a deep dive into this critical aspect of water safety.

Week One was an engaging and successful start to the workshop. After opening with a ceremony from Elder Don Syrtte from Batchewana (Rankin) First Nation on day one, the interns explored the fundamentals of atomic structures, elements, and compounds, as well as chemistry math, including concentration, molarity, molality, normality, and pH. They also had hands-on experience with acids and bases labs, pipettes, and calibrated glassware.

The week also included a lesson on microbiology, where interns tested various bacteriological samples and gained experience with a colilert presence/absence test and an HPC test. The use of interactive activities and small group work made the learning process fun and effective. The week concluded with a successful practice quiz, and interns did exceptionally well. Week One was a success thanks to the dedication and hard work of the facilitators and interns.

Week Two was a mix of intense studying, fun games, and a final exam that put everyone to the test. The interns had their eyes set on passing the Provincial Water Quality Analyst Exam, and they pulled out all the stops to make it happen.

Day one began with the return of Elder Don Syrtte, who led a smudge ceremony. From there, it was off to the races with a 50-question multiple choice quiz that challenged the interns’ knowledge of water quality analysis. Through the power of dot analysis, the group decided to focus on safety and legislation in the afternoon, and even squeezed in a few games to break up the intense studying. Shoutout to Nigel, who totally rocked the cookie challenge!

Over the next few days, the interns dug deep into water chemistry terms, learned how to read the periodic table, and reviewed disinfection methods like UV and filtration. They even played a game of Blooket followed by WQA Jeopardy to test their newfound knowledge. The week culminated with a 100-question practice quiz and a pizza party study session where the interns got to practice math questions and clarify any topics they still had questions about.

The best part of these two intense weeks? 80% of the interns passed the exam! This marks the highest pass rate to date since the start of the WQA workshops, which was a testament to the hard work and dedication of both the facilitators and interns.

Overall, the WQA Workshop was a resounding success, with the interns gaining valuable knowledge and skills, while having fun and building connections with their peers. It was a critical milestone on their path to a career in water science and will undoubtedly serve them well in their future endeavors.

Turning a Dream of Clean Water Into Action

March 10th, 2023

With support from Rotary, Georgian Bay Drinking Water Program interns have a bright future ahead.

For interns of the Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship Program, graduation was just the beginning. Since completing their training, the 14 graduates have been busy engaging with their communities and pursuing further education or employment in water treatment or the water sciences field. With 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in water treatment plants under their belts, along with other training in water monitoring and environmental science, they are well on their way to a bright future.

A significant factor in their success is support from the Rotary Club of Guelph and Rotary International.

In 2020, Rotary Club of Guelph led a fundraising initiative that leveraged club and matching funds into a Global Grant of approximately $115,000 to support the Water First Drinking Water Internship Program being delivered in partnership with eight Indigenous communities in the Georgian Bay area of Ontario.

Rotary members around the world contribute their skills, expertise, and resources to help solve some of the world’s toughest problems. From providing clean water to promoting peace worldwide, Rotary Foundation grants bring service project ideas to life. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Rotary Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects to make lives better for communities here and around the globe.

Rotary International is one of the largest service organizations in the world. Their mission is to create lasting change by providing service to others, promoting integrity, and advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace through their fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.

“Our committee and I think all Rotarians have longed to provide meaningful assistance to Indigenous communities as they deal with the water crisis,” said Dianne Dance, Indigenous Awareness Committee, Rotary Club of Guelph. “The entire club often voiced frustration that we can assist Internationally but not address the water crisis affecting Turtle Island’s First Nations peoples, everyday, year after year.”

Positive change is a key outcome of the Drinking Water Internship. As part of the program, the interns worked towards the water operator in training (OIT) certification and prepared for additional water operator certification exams including water quality analyst and the entry-level course for drinking water operators. These new credentials and skills will serve the interns well as they grow in their careers and as they strive to support clean water in their own communities.

Nick Chapman, an intern from Temagami First Nation, said, “I have grown new skills and experiences I’d never thought I would get. I have taught children at my reserve what Water Treatment Operators are and how water is tested and analyzed. It was amazing seeing my community learning about what I’m trying to be.”

One key aspect of the training program is to build connections from foundational knowledge to real-world jobs and further education. Water First educators help students create these connections through hands-on activities and group work in the classroom, in the lab, and out on the land.

“Every single thing that we did was somehow wrapped into our culture,” said Bella McLeod, a graduate from Nipissing First Nation. “We always had a welcoming ceremony for each prep course. When we got together it was always very traditional, talking about our ways, the ways of the land.”

Following graduation, interns join the Water First Alumni Network to stay engaged, build local networks and access opportunities for ongoing professional development and peer support.

“I have met so many Rotarians who are supportive of Water First and our mandate, and who genuinely care and are invested in the success of the program and the interns,” said Ami Gopal, Director of Development & Communications at Water First. “With support from Rotary, these young people will go on to achieve great things and support their communities in accessing safe, clean water for the long term.”

Water First is grateful for support from the Rotary Foundation which helped fund the Global Grant Project, as well as the Rotary Clubs of Guelph and Buffalo Sunrise, Guelph Trillium, Guelph South, and Brampton, and Rotary Districts 7080 and 7090.

Rotary is an international service organization with 46,000 clubs in over 200 countries. There are 1.4 million Rotarians and Rotaractors in the world.

The Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship Program was a partnership with Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations, Gezhtoojig Employment & Training Anishinabek Nation and Water First. The program launched in June 2021 in the Georgian Bay area of Ontario. Learn more about the Drinking Water Internship Program.

GIS & Mapping Workshop

February 7th, 2023

In January, interns in the Drinking Water Internship Program gathered at the Mississauga First Nation Community Centre for a week-long Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping workshop.

Grand Council Chief Reginald Niganobe joined the group to kick off the week with a discussion of traditional navigation tools. The interns, along with Keith Sayers (Mississauga First Nation Land and Resources Manager), learned about the uses of these traditional tools, which included preserving Traditional Knowledge of sacred places, and defining traditional hunting routes and trail marking systems.

On the second day of the workshop, the interns got an overview of the different concepts and features on maps – like longitude and latitude, scale, and decimal degree – and how to read them. The group had the chance to get out of the Community Centre to find attributes around town, like hydrants and curb stops, and use GPS devices to mark them. They would use these data to make their own maps later in the week.

The next day, the group learned how a map’s look and design can impact a presentation’s ability to communicate a message successfully. Interns then had the chance to work on making their own Google Maps using the GPS data points they had collected the previous day.

The final two days of this week-long workshop were spent touring water treatment plants and seeing how essential GIS tools are to a community’s water operations. First, they went on a tour of the Class 3 water treatment plant in Blind River. The tour was followed by a session using ArcGIS to create maps of the data points they had collected on Tuesday and adding details to the maps. These are valuable skills for interns to bring back to their communities, because it means they can create asset maps for water quality management.

On the final day, the group visited the Mississauga First Nation water treatment plant (where two of the interns work) for a tour led by the local operator, Jarret. Another special guest, Jake, a GIS technician from Mississauga First Nation, explained how GIS data is used within the community and how it can be used to mark and preserve important cultural points in the community. This information is critical for the protection and rehabilitation of lands and water sources and for securing funding.

The interns will continue their learning journey with a series of employment and career workshops. These sessions will explore goal setting, mind mapping for the future, as well as how to apply to school and funding. At this point in the internship, interns are encouraged to think about what’s next for them after graduating from the program. We know they’ll be able to put their new skills to good use, whether they are moving into employment, education or another path.

Want to read more about the Drinking Water Internship Program?

From Connection to Community – Jacey’s Path to Water First

January 25th, 2023

Legend of the Blackfoot Iniskim (Buffalo Stone)

Long ago, the Blackfoot People lived in tipis and were nomadic. They followed the Inni “Buffalo” as their primary source for food, clothing and shelter. During a time when the buffalo became scarce, the Blackfoot People suffered a great famine. The Iniskim “Buffalo Stone” presented itself to a young Blackfoot woman and told her to use it and its songs in ceremony, promising in doing this that the Buffalo would return. The woman took the Buffalo Stone back to her camp and provided it to the old people who made ceremony with it and sang its song. This powerful stone called the Buffalo back to the Blackfoot people thus saving them from starvation.

The Buffalo Stone is considered sacred to the Blackfoot people, given to them by the Creator to bring assistance, luck and prosperity so as to never be without.

– Desmond Jackson, owner and founder of Buffalo Stone Clothing Co.

Sometimes, the most rewarding relationships emerge from unexpected connections. Take this story from Jacey Bonertz, a Technical Trainer & Project Coordinator with Water First.

Here, Jacey talks about how she came to work with Water First, and how she's able to do meaningful work that gives back to the community. And it all started with a chance encounter on Instagram.

It was my last semester of Chemical Engineering at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after graduation, but I was confident that I wanted to work in water. I also had aspirations to work with Indigenous youth.

Checking Instagram one day, I saw some relatives posting about Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. and how the company donating some of their profits to support an organization called Water First. I was intrigued. I loved what Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. was doing as an Indigenous-owned business (plus Desmond, the owner, is from my community, the Piikani Nation!), so I decided to learn more about Water First.

After looking into the organization a bit more, I saw that their values aligned with my own, and combined my interests in working with water and with Indigenous youth! I was excited, and reached out to them to get a better sense of what they did and what path I would need to take to do similar work in the future. I connected with Jag Saini, Water First’s Project Manager & Instructor. He told me that Water First was hiring soon and I should apply. I did – and I got the job!

After landing the job, I decided to purchase a couple of items from Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. as a silent “thank you” for the connection to Water First. I ended up having a conversation with Desmond, the owner and founder of the company, and explained to him how his brand introduced me to Water First.

Buffalo Stone Clothing Co.

“Like all things in life, Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. also has a creation story. Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. was created after many conversations had about all the negativity and division we were seeing in the world. We were tired of feeling helpless, so we began thinking of ways we could take action in a meaningful way. We knew we wanted to focus on supporting, empowering and advocating for marginalized Indigenous people as this has always been something important to both of us. Soon after, Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. was established.”

– Desmond Jackson, owner and founder of Buffalo Stone Clothing Co.

Since starting with Water First, I’ve supported and led workshops and tutorials for the young Indigenous adults training in the Drinking Water Internship Program. I’ve assisted in designing and developing content for workshops, supporting the Alumni Network for graduates, and creating spaces within the organization for staff at Water First to connect and enable reciprocal learning.

As an Indigenous woman in engineering, I have had to overcome barriers to establish myself in this field. I would not be where I am today without the support of my community, the Piikani Nation, and I am mindful of how that support allowed me to get to where I am today. It is of utmost importance to me that I honour this and advocate for Indigenous communities through my work. There is an underrepresentation of women in STEM, let alone Indigenous women, and I want nothing more than the opportunity to be the role model I would have liked to have when I started working in this field.

The skills I’ve gained through my previous engineering internship experiences are invaluable, but I have always known there was more I wanted to accomplish through my work. Breaking down stereotypes and increasing awareness for Indigenous issues has always been a priority to me, but I knew I eventually wanted to find work with an organization that puts the needs of the community first and maintains sustainable and environmentally-conscious work practices. And I think I’ve found that with Water First.

The story of my path to Water First highlights how good things happen when you support people doing meaningful work in the world. Not only did I get a job where I can put my unique gifts to good use, but I also have the opportunity to give back to the Indigenous community and support the good work of others from Piikani Nation. Thanks to Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. and others who believe in our work, Water First can continue to collaborate with more communities to support access to safe, clean water for everyone.

Giving Back

“We leave it in Creator’s hands, and he’ll never deal us a hand we can’t play.

I was fortunate enough to be transferred an actual buffalo stone and the buffalo stone tipi when I was going through personal tribulations, and now everything has been working out for me. So I am using it’s power to help all Indigenous people by donating to Water First.”

– Desmond Jackson, owner and founder of Buffalo Stone Clothing Co.

For every piece of Buffalo Stone Clothing Co. apparel or merchandise sold, 10% will be donated to Water First. Water First is a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to working with Indigenous communities across Canada. Water First focuses on both drinking water and environmental water concerns, as well as Water Science education for youth.

Drinking Water Internship Program

October 11th, 2022

DRINKING WATER INTERNSHIP

Program Update | Fall 2022

Celebrating the Graduates of the Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship

On September 23, 2022, community and family members, Water First staff and other supporters joined together to celebrate the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators as they graduated from the Drinking Water Internship Program. This program, a partnership with Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations, Gezhtoojig Employment & Training Anishinabek Nation and Water First, launched in June 2021 in the Georgian Bay area of Ontario.

During the 15-month internship program, each intern accumulated 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in water treatment plants, which is a part of the water operator in training (OIT) certification process. Interns also pursued additional water operator certification exams including water quality analyst and the entry-level course for drinking water operators, as well as environmental relevant training like GIS and water sampling which can lead to work in both drinking water treatment and the environmental water field. Following graduation, interns join the Water First Alumni Network to stay engaged, build local networks and access opportunities for ongoing professional development and peer support.

Each and every one of the 14 graduates displayed incredible dedication and skill throughout the course of their internship. After weeks of hands-on instruction in treatment plants, or in the environment learning monitoring and sampling techniques, there is no doubt that these impressive young adults will do great things for their communities. Congratulations graduates!

Highlights from Graduation Day, September 23, 2022

Watch this short video to experience some of the graduation excitement!

Understanding the importance of Traditional Knowledge

Before graduation, interns from the Georgian Bay internship spent time in Wiikwemkoong First Nation on Manitoulin Island for Traditional Knowledge week. Paige Manitowabi, local coordinator of the Drinking Water Internship Program, organized this opportunity for the interns – who were getting ready to graduate – to understand the importance of learning Traditional Knowledge alongside the western science that is taught in labs and in treatment plants.

The interns spent the week camping by the lake, where they participated in a traditional medicine walk and heard stories about the land and locations they visited. They also set nets and filleted fish for a fish fry, which Alumni from our pilot Internship Program on Manitoulin Island got to enjoy as well.⁠

North Shore Tribal Council interns write their OIT exam

In August, 10 interns in the North Shore Tribal Council (NSTC) Drinking Water Internship Program gathered in Sault Ste. Marie to prepare for and write the Operator-in-Training (OIT) exam, which is the first step to becoming a qualified water operator. With an OIT license, interns can help with their water treatment plants’ operational processes.

In preparation for the exam, students explored water treatment activities, learned to use tools like colorimeters, turbidity meters and pH probes, and reviewed important terms and definitions. They wrote the exam on August 19 – six passed and the others are re-writing the exam the week of October 10.

Learning on the land: Enviro Week at Elliot Lake

After writing their exam, NSTC interns got to enjoy Enviro Week, a fun, experiential and active week that’s all about spending time together out on the land, exploring and learning about lakes, rivers and streams. Held at Elliott Lake, Enviro Week gives interns the chance to get familiar with environmental water testing tools, learn about recording the data, and discuss what it all means from a water quality perspective. It also gives interns a glimpse into career paths beyond water treatment and reinforces a connection to water.

Want to see more highlights?

Water First is now on TikTok, where interns and staff share stories about their experiences.

Thank you for supporting Drinking Water Internship participants on their journey to a bright future!

Celebrating the Graduates of the Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship

September 23rd, 2022

In June of 2021 Water First, in partnership with Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations, Gezhtoojig Employment & Training, and Anishinabek Nation, launched a new Drinking Water Internship Program in the Georgian Bay area of Ontario.

Each and every graduate displayed incredible dedication and skill throughout the course of their internship, facing new challenges in stride. After weeks of hands-on instruction in treatment plants, or in the environment learning monitoring and sampling techniques, there is no doubt that these impressive young adults will do great things for their communities. Congratulations graduates!

Fourth Drinking Water Internship Underway

August 10th, 2022

On July 4th, the latest Water First Internship Program — in partnership with Mamaweswen and the North Shore Tribal Council— was proudly launched! The interns, NSTC members, and Water First staff gathered in Sault Ste. Marie to kick off a weeklong workshop. Ogamauh annag (Sue Chiblow) from Garden River First Nation, who is a member of our Indigenous Advisory Council, started the week with an opening ceremony.

For their first week, interns, community partners and Water First staff were in Batchewana First Nation in Goulais for a water treatment plant tour and participated in a watershed model exercise on a local beach. In the watershed exercise, interns learned about the importance of watershed management and protection. By creating these watershed models, the interns learn concepts like how industry and deforestation impact water quality, how to make decisions on where their source water comes from, and the proper treatments necessary to address issues that impact their watershed.

They also built hands-on water quality assessment skills by learning to use equipment that measures total dissolved solids and conductivity, as well as activities that introduced concepts such as coagulation, flocculation and filtration.

Each day of that week was filled with opportunities to hear from Water First Alumni about their experiences in the Internship, build relationships with each other, explore local water bodies, and participate in a series of exploratory activities related to source water contamination, treatment processes, and math and chemistry for operators.

In the time since the internship began, interns have started working at the water treatment plants in their respective communities. They also took the Small Drinking Water Systems course — and they all passed! The interns are preparing to write their Operator-in-Training (OIT) exam next week.

We’re just getting started — up next for the interns, Enviro Week in September. Congrats to all of the participants for such a great start! We can’t wait to take a deep dive into this journey of providing clean drinking water together- updates to come!

Drinking Water Internship Program

June 21st, 2022

DRINKING WATER INTERNSHIP

Program Update | Summer 2022

Conference Room Turned Chemistry Lab

It seemed an unlikely sight in the Sudbury Holiday Inn hotel conference room. Five long tables fanning out from the main table like the parallel barbs of a feather. Each table was laden with enough equipment to give the feel of a real chemistry lab. And this was exactly the point for the weeklong Water Quality Analyst training for the Georgian Bay interns early this spring.

The Drinking Water Internship is designed to support the interns to prepare for and write three provincial certification exams: Operator in Training (OIT), Entry Level Course (ELC) and Water Quality Analyst (WQA). Of the three, the last is the most challenging for the interns. This became clear when the results of the WQA exam from previous Internships were consistently unsuccessful.

To figure out how to better support the interns for the WQA exam, we had to determine the barriers to success. The main barrier was a lack of experience with the water chemistry theory, lab equipment and experimental techniques. This was understandable–when compared to larger water treatment facilities, the smaller water treatment plants the interns work in do not usually complete as much lab analysis in house, so the interns don’t get as much practice with these valuable concepts and techniques.

To overcome this barrier, an entirely new training week was designed and delivered. The week was solely focused on building foundational knowledge of water chemistry theory, lab equipment and technical lab skills through a collection of activities and hands-on lab experiments. Since the interns couldn’t go to a lab, the lab came to them.

A few weeks later, when the interns gathered in that same conference room for a second week to prepare for the exam, they studied hard with the experience and memory of blended theory and practical application. And all their hard work paid off. For certification, 70% is the pass rate and 60% of the group achieved certification. The rest of the interns were close; some within 1-2 points. Late in the summer, before graduation, they will have the opportunity to rewrite the exam and we are certain they will all be certified.

Experience in a Big City Treatment Plant

Lori Corbiere, is a current intern from Wahnapitae First Nation, which does not have a water treatment plant. In order for Lori to accumulate the required 1,800 hours of experience, she is working at the City of Greater Sudbury water treatment plant. Recently, Lori wrote about her experience at the plant in this blog.

Extension Certifications Expand Employment Ranges

When it comes to certifications for new water treatment operators, the certification exams that the Drinking Water Internship focuses on are just the beginning of the certification journey. Once the interns have their Operator in Training certification, they must then complete 1,800 hours of work experience in a water treatment plant. While they accumulate their hours, the interns can voluntarily sign up to challenge the Class 1 Operator exam. With the hours and their Class 1 exam they can apply for the Class 1 certification, which demonstrates capacity to independently operate a water treatment plant.

Operation of drinking water systems is just part of the urban water cycle process. Treating wastewater is an important part of the cycle to make sure that the water returning to the environment is safe. This branch also requires certification and work experience.

A few of the Georgian Bay interns have already gone beyond the three certifications that the Internship encompasses and have successfully completed their Wastewater OIT and Class 1 exams. This propels them along their career path even faster. As educators, a deep joy and pride fills our buckets when the interns reach even greater heights in learning and professional development that they sought for themselves.

Resume Writing and Polishing Career Portfolios

In these final months of the Georgian Bay Internship, we will be gathering once again. This time instead of preparing for a certification exam, the focus will be on supporting the development of each intern’s individual career portfolio, resume writing skills, and practicing interview scenarios. Being able to feature and share accomplishments and qualifications in the professional world is a skill set that can always be finessed and polished. In preparation for graduation in September, Water First is supporting the interns to prepare their resumes as they approach their post-Internship job search and continuing education opportunities.

North Shore Tribal Council Internship Gears Up

As the Georgian Bay Internship cohort enters the tail-end of their program, the North Shore Tribal Council (NSTC) Water First Internship cohort is being recruited. Recruitment started this spring, when we met with community representatives and each community’s water treatment operators. Advertisements were posted in all the communities and information booths were set up at two local events to help promote this internship opportunity. Now, after a review of all the applicants and interviews, 12 candidates from seven communities have been offered placements in the Internship.

On July 4th in Sault Ste. Marie, the interns, North Shore Tribal Council members and Water First staff will gather to kick off this latest Internship together. The weeklong workshop will begin with an opening ceremony with Ogamauh annag (Sue Chiblow) from Garden River First Nation, who is a member of the Indigenous Advisory Council to Water First. In Batchewana First Nation, Chief Sayers will welcome everyone and the group will tour the community’s water treatment plant. In addition to this, each day will be filled with opportunities to hear from alumni about their experiences in the Internship, build relationships with each other, explore local water bodies and participate in a series of exploratory activities related to source water contamination, treatment processes, and math and chemistry for operators.

The interns continue to amaze and inspire us with their hard work and dedication. Thank you to pir partners, donors and supporters who make this possible. Looking for more inspirational stories? Follow Water First on social media for the latest.

Experience in a Big City Treatment Plant

June 20th, 2022

Written by: Lori Corbiere, an intern from Wahnapitae First Nation in the Drinking Water Internship Program, and Kendra Driscoll, Water Quality Specialist at Water First.

Hello everyone, my name is Lori Corbiere. My spirit name is White Spotted Eagle Feather, I am the Eagle Clan. I’m 43 years old and I live in Wahnapitae First Nation. I used to be in the law enforcement field before I decided to change my field and work with water.

I believe water is the most important element that our bodies need in order to survive, WATER IS LIFE. I feel this was my true calling: to be a Water Warrior and make sure that our people and cities have clean water to replenish their bodies and lands, but we still need to save water for wildlife and wetlands.

Lori is currently a Water First Drinking Water Internship Program intern. The Internship is a 15-month training program where Indigenous adults complete training with Water First in topics related to drinking water treatment and are supported to write Ontario Drinking Water Certification exams. These certifications the interns achieve in the program are what all operators across Ontario must have to work in water treatment plants. When the interns aren’t in training and writing exams, they are working in water treatment plants learning the skills required to operate a plant and accumulating the on-the-job hours needed to become fully certified water treatment plant operators.

Some Indigenous communities, like Wahnapitae First Nation, do not have centralized water treatment plants, but the Internship Program can still be a valuable training program because it increases community capacity and water quality knowledge.

My Internship placement started in Wahnapitae First Nation, where I followed fellow co-workers around doing water sampling for the mines in our surrounding area, making sure that our water is safe for our people. Because our reserve does not have its own water treatment plant (all of us in Wahnapitae are on sandpoints and wells), I thought it was a great place to start my journey into becoming a water operator! Now I have the knowledge to see our surrounding watershed and where our water is coming from and where it’s flowing to. Cleaning the water at these mines is important before it’s discharged back to the waterways. That is why we test our water frequently throughout the week.

Even though I gained valuable experience sampling in and around my community, to become a certified drinking water operator, I need 1800 hours working in a water treatment plant. So, the City of Greater Sudbury agreed to take me on so I can start accumulating those hours towards my Class 1 certification!

When we approached the City of Greater Sudbury to see if they could host Lori at their plant. They agreed and were eager to support Lori to build her experience and accumulate the hours she needs to obtain her Class 1 Certification.

I am now at the Wanapitei Water Treatment Plant in Coniston, east of Sudbury, where the Plant is a Class 4 treatment plant. Sudbury isn’t the only city it takes care of: the SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system reaches and maintains wells, pumps, and analyzers of different water treatment in our Greater Sudbury area, which goes as far as Onaping, Capreol, Markstay, Copper Cliff, etc.

Doing my placement here has been insightful and exciting, and I hope to learn lots on water treatment. All of the operators here are at different levels. Some are waiting to take Class 1, like myself, while others are Class 4 operators that have years of knowledge. Every operator here has their own unique way of running the plant, so it’s nice that I’m learning from these operators along with their little tricks to keep everything flowing nicely.

Maintaining water with the group of water operators here has made me feel that much more confident and compassionate in myself to continue my journey working with water. Their stories on how they became water operators were inspiring and I hope to someday inspire water operators of the future. I hope to tell them that not only am I learning from operators older or the same age, but some are younger than me and I don’t mind it at all. There is so much yet to learn here at the Water Treatment Plant and I have the advantage to learn from other operators on how they do their daily tasks keeping the water safe for everyone around us. So when you do your steps from surface water to water coming out of your taps there’s so much more happening to your water to make it drinkable.

Every community’s experience and relationship with water is unique. Not all communities have challenges. Not all have treatment plants. Not all challenges are caused or solved by a water treatment plant. A big part of the challenge is ensuring that communities have capacity, knowledge and technical skills to manage water, and to do that, training programs that specifically support Indigenous adults to gain this experience are essential. That is why it is so valuable for interns to gain experience in the treatment plans and learn about treatment technologies while they work. Gaining knowledge and hands-on experience with treatment technologies allows interns, like Lori, to work someday in their home communities if the opportunity arises, but also opens up job opportunities in other communities, tribal council hubs, or other related industries.

Inter-program Collaborations in Naskapi

June 10th, 2022

In late May, Dillon from our Schools Program team was in the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach to work with students from Jimmy Sandy Memorial School. After lengthy COVID restrictions, students and staff were thrilled to have some hands-on water science activities, including time on the land with fun tools and equipment.

Dillon worked with high school classes from three different grade levels, with a theme of water quality and watershed stewardship. Students learned to run their own “micro” water quality monitoring programs in our “Model Watershed” activity. They also learned how to interpret water quality data to identify sources of water pollution in our “Watershed Mysteries” activity. This 3-day water quality workshop was a warm-up for our fish habitat work that will pick up speed this summer. The land and water was our ideal classroom to learn and practice water testing and sampling techniques – including use of a YSI meter, recording good site information on data sheets, and use of some benchtop lab instruments (a turbidimeter and a colorimeter).

The big surprise was a visit to the community drinking water treatment plant! Jag (from the Water First Environmental Water Program team) arranged a guided tour by the plant operator, and the students learned about the system of pumps and filters that purify their water. They also learned that cleaner source water requires less intense treatment in the plant, calling back to the importance of good watershed stewardship!

Students went out on the land to learn about and practice water quality testing using Water Rangers kits. In this photo, they’re doing a dissolved oxygen test which acts as an indicator of the health of the water.

In addition to participating in the environmental water project this summer, Noah visited the local school to work with our Indigenous Schools Water Program on fun, hands-on water science programming.

Being from the community, Noah was able to chat with the students in Naskapi, the local language. Keegan, one of our technical trainers, noted that the students seemed to be more engaged in what was being taught when Noah explained the concepts to them in Naskapi.

When possible, we try to bring students to the local water treatment plant. This helps bring their understanding of water and water monitoring processes full circle. It also helps to deepen their appreciation for the work that goes into providing a community with safe, clean water.

Throughout the week, Keegan (from our Enviro team) and Kabimbetas (Noah) Mokoush, a long-standing Environmental Intern from the community, joined in the school programming. They showed the students the water quality tools that they use in their own environmental projects and explained the importance of those projects in the community. Kabimbetas drew on his years of experience in these projects to explain water science concepts to the students in the Naskapi language. Hearing the concepts in their own language, explained in a more familiar context, helped the students to grasp how watersheds work.

For Water First, inter-program collaborations like these deepen the impact of our programming in the community. For our interns, teaching the concepts they’ve learned to younger students helps to deepen and solidify their own knowledge — as they say, the best way to learn is by teaching someone else. We love it when our teams get to work together. It benefits everyone!

Each week this spring, this team sampled water at several locations around their community, before we transitioned into our fish habitat assessment work in July. This water quality data will form a valuable baseline for their region, and the sampling trips will help keep their knowledge and skills sharp!

As an added bonus, Water First staff were grateful to join the Community Cookout in Kawawachikamach — an event that has been missed during the pandemic. It was a chance for everyone in the community to come together over laughter and good food, including country foods like caribou, goose, ptarmigan, and lake trout!

Noah Mokoush has worked with Water First for many years. During the training, he was able to share his knowledge of water science tools and equipment with the other participants.

Noah and Cheyenne Swappie, both past interns, took on a leadership role with the newly hired interns and demonstrated use of the tools and equipment for the group. In this photo, they’re showing the group how to use a YSI Meter that tests for dissolved oxygen, temperature and pH.

In preparation for the summer fish habitat assessment project, newly hired interns and previous partners spent time becoming familiar with various water quality monitoring tools and equipment.

Group photo outside of the Naskapi Water Pumphouse.

Dillon from our Indigenous Schools Water Program at a local feast, the first gathering since before COVID; Caribou, pemmican, geese, fish, bannock!

#NoFilter

Water First To Build New Operations Hub to Support Significant Growth in Programming

April 29th, 2022

The Water First Operations Hub will serve as a centre of effective coordination supporting partnerships with Indigenous communities from coast to coast to coast.

Water First is excited to announce plans for a new Operations Hub based at 10 Francis Street East in Creemore, Ontario. The Water First Operations Hub will serve as a centre of effective coordination supporting partnerships with numerous Indigenous community partners each year. The Creemore-based Operations Hub will provide vital space for equipment coordination, distribution, and storage, as well as vehicle and boat parking, office space, and stability for the organization.

As an organization, we have unique needs based on collaborations in education and technical skills training projects with Indigenous communities. As operations have expanded, the amount of technical water science equipment and teaching aids required for programming has also grown. As a result, our current office space is no longer suited for managing proper equipment coordination, maintenance, distribution, and storage. In response to the growing reality of increased work from home opportunities and more remote staff joining the team, the new Operations Hub will have reduced office space and increased space for equipment coordination.

Over the past year, we consulted with many donors, community supporters, and volunteers on establishing an Operations Hub. Through strategic investment, our new space will better meet the unique needs of our organization and accommodate future expansion plans. In the coming months, Water First will be launching a capital campaign to raise funds for building renovations and capital costs.

“Water First is investing in the Creemore area to support scaling our programs to meet the needs of any Indigenous community in Canada seeking a partnership with us,” shares John Millar, Water First executive director and founder. “We have seen a number of location changes as the organization has grown over the past 13 years. The new Operations Hub will provide important equipment coordination space, room for growth, and also stability to many local staff in the area. We look forward to sharing the vision for this new space with our Creemore neighbours and supporters in the near future.”

What was once a small charitable nonprofit organization, Water First is now a thriving and expanding organization with over 30 staff. To date, we have collaborated with 60 Indigenous communities across Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Labrador, and are in discussions with many potential community partners across the country to explore sustainable and collaborative water solutions.

Future Water Quality Analysts in Training

April 26th, 2022

A key aspect of our training programs is to create the bridge between the solid base of knowledge and skills that partners currently have to where they are wanting to get to. So, when the interns of the Drinking Water Internship were preparing to write the most challenging of the three certification exams, we created an entirely new workshop to build the foundation necessary for water quality analysis. This week-long workshop took the interns on a deep dive into atomic, water and solution chemistry through hands-on lab activities and group work.

A woman at a table using candy to create a diagram of neutrons and electrons. — Building atomic structures with neutrons, protons and electrons with skittles and m&ms helped to conceptualize something we cannot see.

Three adults holding signs showing the compound for water. — Compounds are made from certain elements. This compound here is H20. Water is life!

A man holding a container of pink coloured substance. — Making some Kool-aid solutions.

A table covered with class laboratory equipment. — The exam references various lab equipment and glassware. Being able to use the equipment performing lab experiments helps to solidify the names and uses for all of the equipment.

Two men using laboratory equipment to test water. — There are numerous questions on the exam about titration experiments. So, we brought titration equipment and the interns brought water samples to test for alkalinity.

Three adults around a table with laboratory equipment. — There are numerous questions on the exam about titration experiments. So, we brought titration equipment and the interns brought water samples to test for alkalinity.

In the second week-long workshop, which culminated with writing the exam on the 5th day, the interns practiced with mock exams, interactive games, and group work to help study, practice, and boost confidence in an engaging and fun way. Now that they have written the exam we are eagerly awaiting the results.

Learn more about the Drinking Water Internship here.

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively Donate $500,000 in Support of Training, Education and Skills Development for Indigenous Youth and Young Adults

March 24th, 2022

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have made a donation in support of locally-based, hands-on skills training and education programs. Reynolds’ & Lively’s $500,000 contribution will provide resources for more young Indigenous adults to become water treatment plant operators and environmental water science technicians, as well as engage Indigenous school-aged students in water science.

“Access to clean drinking water is a basic human right. Canada is home to over 20% of the planet’s freshwater — an abundance that’s envied around the world. There’s absolutely no reason Indigenous communities should not have access to safe, clean water. All the individuals involved, whether they are operating water systems or monitoring their local water bodies, are critical. We appreciate Water First’s focus on supporting young, Indigenous adults to become certified water operators and environmental technicians. These folks are helping to ensure sustainable access to safe, clean water locally, now and for the future. Blake and I are thrilled to support this important work,” shares Reynolds.

Water First has been in discussions with Ryan and Blake since January to share more about the organization’s approach to partnering and collaborating with Indigenous communities to help increase local water-science capacity.

“From our first conversation with Ryan, his genuine interest in supporting education and training opportunities for young Indigenous adults and youth has been clear. Many Indigenous community partners are reaching out to Water First to explore options to strengthen local technical capacity in the water field. Ryan and Blake’s tremendous support will significantly increase Water First’s ability to offer hands-on skills training to more Indigenous youth and young adults from coast to coast to coast,” said John Millar, executive director and founder at Water First. “We are proud to support the steps Indigenous communities are taking to address local water challenges independently and for the long term.”

Spencer Welling, Water First intern from Wasauksing First Nation shares, “I am doing this for myself, my family and community. It’s important to know how things are done and gives you a better appreciation for it. It’s a good career to have, which I’m sure would ease my parents’ minds knowing that. It also feels good knowing that my community will have a local water treatment operator at the plant for at least a couple decades.”

How to Be the Safety Line

March 15th, 2022

How to Be the Safety Line

An Intern's Perspective on the Water First Internship Program

March 15, 2022

Written by Nick Chapman, Water First Intern from Temagami First Nation.

Young Indigenous adults in Water First’s Drinking Water Internship Program are training to get the greatest results for the environment, learning how to operate in a water treatment plant and eventually becoming a water treatment plant operators.

Water First has developed a close relationship with me and the other interns, who have joined them in the fight for clean drinking water.

Together, we’ve studied how water treatment facilities work, how to filter water in various ways, and have received general training to aid us in the future. We’ve learned about watersheds and water sources, HR policies, water treatment processes, PPE (personal protective equipment) and why it’s used, work health and safety awareness, water quality results, AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) training, community water issues, math and chemistry, and equipment/appliances during the three weeks of virtual training. But there’s way more: we have learned about pipes and valves, wells, how water treatment facilities are placed in an environment, and a whole lot more.

Everyone has their Small Systems Certification accomplished, which made us all extremely excited, and we also have the OIT (Operator-in-Training) Certification. More recently, we wrote our ELC (Entry-Level Course) exams, which happened in November 2021 – everyone passed with flying colours!

“I like Water First for all of the training and work opportunities for the First Nations communities.”

Dyami Tuskin, Intern, Shawanaga First Nation

“I feel very fortunate to have this amazing opportunity to work with Water First. To better support my community and the protection of clean water for generations to come.”

Bella McLeod, Intern, Nipissing First Nation

One of the amazing things that Water Fist has done for the interns was give us a chance to be ourselves, telling stories when we had time, making Jamboards to show our beliefs and goals. That way, even though we were all online, we could feel connected to everyone and not so alone while training. They created a Facebook page and messaging group, so everyone can post pictures, ask questions, talk about what they did at the plants, and overall, to stay connected. Water First interns and instructors have even done some travelling: we’ve gone to Killarney, Sudbury, and we’re working on our own reserves, as well.

Right now, we are working on Geographic Information System (GIS), learning how to create maps and how to use them correctly. Then, we will be studying for either our Wastewater OIT (Operator-in-Training) Exam or Class 1 Exam. We are all wishing each other good luck!

We have had community members and Elders come in to share their point of view on things, like water treatment plants and water itself. Water First is teaching in different ways, so everyone can learn the way they learn best. Our group of interns and the instructors at Water First have been showing great strength and are constantly proving that we want a better future for our environment and that safe drinking water is the way to go!

“Hello my name is Nick Chapman; I am from Temagami First Nation.

Why I joined this internship was because I just got out of high school and I had no idea what I wanted to do or be, then this internship fell onto my lap out of nowhere and I decided to sign up to give it a try.

Since then, I have loved every minute of it. Working with Water First has been a blessing. I have grown new skills and experiences I’d never thought I would get.

I have taught children at my reserve what Water Treatment Operators are and how water is tested and analyzed. It was amazing seeing my community learning about what I’m trying to be.

My favourite memory Is learning how to be the “Safety Line” as I call it, making sure that everyone gets across the water safely and setting the line-up.

I love how in Water First we are all a team and are working hard to help our First Nation communities.”

Nick Chapman, Intern, Temagami First Nation

A look into the Internship Program:

To learn more about the Drinking Water Internship Program, click here!

Drinking Water Internship Program

November 2nd, 2021

Taking Water Quality Testing to the Great Outdoors

October 27th, 2021

In June of 2021, the Drinking Water Internship with Waabnoong Bemjiwang Associations of First Nations began, in partnership with Gezhtoojig Employment & Training, Anishinabek Nation and all the participating communities began. Since then, the cohort of interns have been busy studying, writing provincial certification exams and working in their local water treatment plants.

The Drinking Water Internship program includes a week of training on the Introduction to Environmental Water.

Learn more about the Drinking Water Internship Program.

Bimose Drinking Water Internship Graduation

October 26th, 2021

The Drinking Water Internship interns have officially graduated. These interns endured 18 months of hard work and dedication, long hours of studying and working, and adapting to COVID along the way — and thrived. Members from Bimose Tribal Council, our partners, and Water First staff were there in Kenora to help the graduates mark the occasion.

The graduation ceremony started indoors, where interns were presented their certificates.

There was a calm sense of accomplishment in the room; faces full of achievement and excitement for the next step. For many, they will continue to support access to clean water in their home communities.

During his ceremony speech, Jon Kocis, HUB Water Treatment Services Manager of Bimose Tribal Council gave sound words of advice (adapted from Herbert V. Prochnow):

”If you want to leave footprints in the sands of time, you have to wear work boots.”

He continued with: “So, when you get out there on your first day — lace those boots tight, put that invisible cape on, stand tall and strong like the heroes that you are, and enjoy the journey.”

When the ceremony migrated outside, we were joined by Judy DaSilva, an Elder, activist and Environmental Health Coordinator from Grassy Narrows First Nation.

She led a water ceremony that was paired with a delicious feast of traditional foods.

We are all so incredibly proud of the graduates and excited for their next chapter. They are now newly minted members of the Water First Alumni Network, where they will continue to be supported to grow and have opportunities to support each other.

Press release: New Indigenous Water-Operators-in-Training Announced by Bimose Tribal Council and Water First

Concern for water challenges in Indigenous communities runs deep at Rotary

September 9th, 2021

For years, the Rotary Club of Guelph’s Indigenous Awareness (IA) Committee puzzled over how they could meaningfully support Indigenous communities in their right to access clean drinking water. “It’s ridiculous that a country like Canada has drinking water issues. It doesn’t make sense. Personally, I believe we need to help support Indigenous Peoples and clean water is where we can start,” said Dianne Dance, whose mother spearheaded the Guelph chapter’s Indigenous Awareness Committee in 2012 and inspired her to get involved.

Despite their motivation to help, the committee acknowledged that water challenges are complex. To move the needle on this challenge requires more than money and outrage.

And then they learned about Water First.

In February 2019, after a meeting with Water First and learning about the approach to building strong partnerships with Indigenous communities that create lasting results, “We finally felt that maybe this is some way we can support the water issue in Indigenous communities,” said Dianne.

The powerful Rotary wheels began to turn. Concern turned into action.

A sustainable outlook

While the IA committee was researching how to best help, the rest of the Rotary Club of Guelph, along with 30 other Ontario Rotary clubs, were working on a special fundraiser to support clean water projects in Ontario.

“My dream was that the money raised would go towards a water project in Indigenous communities within Canada, because the need here is as great or greater than a lot of Rotary’s international [water] projects,” said Helmuth Slisarenko, a retired auto mechanic and active member of the Rotary Club of Guelph.

The IA and the fundraising committees came together and decided to fund the Water First Internship Program. “One of the things that attracted us to this program was the education aspect. We could see that through training local personnel, water treatment infrastructure would be well-used, well-maintained and ultimately achieve its purpose, which is to make sure that everybody has access to clean water,” said Liz Sandals, a Rotary Club of Guelph member, former Guelph MPP and Ontario Minister of Education.

From ‘seed money’ to global grant

Inspired by the Water First Internship Program, the Rotary Club of Guelph’s “grant guru”, Ab Moore, suggested they use the funds raised to apply for a district grant to match donations for further funding. In addition, they applied to the Rotary Foundation for the possibility of securing a Global Grant. Soon, members from various Rotary clubs were convening via Zoom to discuss the program and to try to accumulate as many “club” funds as possible to maximize district and Rotary Foundation matching grant dollars.

By the summer of 2020, the Global Grant was approved by Rotary International for approximately $115,000 for Water First to use these funds for the Internship program being delivered in partnership with eight Indigenous communities in the Georgian Bay area of Ontario.

“For the Rotary International committee to match the funds that we raised for this program certainly speaks to the faith and trust we have in Water First in carrying out this program,” said Helmuth.

The impact on Water First

“We started our third internship in June 2021 and we wouldn’t have been able to do that without the support of Rotary,” said Water First Development Manager, Sam Murray. “In addition to funding this program, we have received many inquiries from Rotary clubs across Ontario and Manitoba because of the awareness raised about Water First and our work in partnership with Indigenous communities. These connections are very significant for us and our programs.”

Dianne is gratified that the work she and her fellow Rotary club members have done will have an impact on the work that Water First is dedicated to. “[The interest] speaks to how much Canadians are concerned about this, and have been wanting to help but not knowing how. Clubs are waking up to the fact that we can be involved in a meaningful way to support Indigenous communities in Canada.”

The Rotary Club of Guelph has proven that sometimes a single drop of interest in water issues can turn into a deluge.

The Georgian Bay Internship is Underway

August 4th, 2021

This past month, Water First launched the next Water First Internship Program in the Georgian Bay area in partnership with Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations (WBAFN), Gezhtoojig Employment & Training, Anishinabek Nation, and all the participating communities. This program will train 16 young Indigenous adults to become certified water treatment plant operators. All partners are committed to addressing the local need for more young and qualified personnel in the water management field to help ensure safe drinking water in communities.

Below is a personal reflection from Justin McGregor, Water First Internship Coordinator & Trainer:

Aanii,

We kicked off a new Internship Program with eight participating communities at the end of June. I have to say that so far the engagement and participation has been amazing. We have a strong group of interns who are eager to learn new skills with regards to Water Treatment, as well as Environmental Monitoring.

Due to COVID restrictions, we started the program with 3 weeks of online introductory workshop sessions that included online learning and hands-on activities they could do at home or that took them outside.

After that, they started a Small Drinking Water Systems online certification course. This course is the perfect start for our interns to get introduced to their roles as future water operators and water quality analysts. It is geared to be a stepping point to learn best practices and theory on what it is like day-to-day in a typical water treatment plant and what to expect for future certification exams.

Working with the interns using online delivery has its limitations, but we were able to help them navigate the course through a week-long session where we discussed, summarized and reviewed topics that we found interesting and challenging. I feel confident that it really helped ensure that the interns retained the main topics of each section.

Upon successfully passing the exam, the interns will be considered a ‘trained person’ which means they will be able to assist in the daily routines at their local water treatment plants to ensure clean drinking water is being distributed to the community. These are exciting times for these interns. Stay tuned for more updates.

Miigwetch,
Justin

“The water needs our help.”

July 27th, 2021

Tasha Beeds, a Plains Cree Mide-Kwe and Water Walker, has walked nearly 7,000 km to raise awareness about the current state of water systems in Canada and the United States. She is currently a Ph.D. Candidate in Indigenous Studies at Trent University with a research focus on violence, Indigenous women, and Cree consciousness.

Tasha shared her knowledge and experiences with Nibi (water) to the Indigenous youth interested in applying for the Waabnoong Drinking Water Internship. She inspired us all with stories of her journeys across her ancestral lands and shared the ways in which we can engage with and help the water.

This is one of the many ways the Water First interns will be learning to use non-Indigenous tools alongside Traditional Knowledge and methods to help the water and people in their communities. We value this immensely.

A big thank you to Tasha Beeds for the opportunity to hear her speak and for her permission to share this video.

Resilient group of interns became new water treatment plant operators despite 2020 challenges

July 5th, 2021

The Water First Internship Program was featured in the May/June 2021 edition of Water Canada, a publication dedicated to covering a range of Canadian water issues. This edition of the magazine focused on topics such as communicating science in a crisis, governing the Blue Economy, and renewing water infrastructure.

Water First team members sat with members of Bimose Tribal Council’s technical services department to discuss their unique model, and the impact that the internship has had on communities. Wayne Holmstrom, overall responsible operator, Aaron Henry, operator in charge, and Adam Peacock, technical services officer, work closely together to service communities in what they call a hub model: a centralized system of support for water treatment plant operators in each of the Tribal Council’s communities. They have been working closely with our interns to train them—as well as depend on them.

Read the article here:

Launch of The Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship

May 31st, 2021

Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations (WBAFN) and Water First are proud to launch the Drinking Water Internship Program in member communities. This program trains young Indigenous adults to become certified water treatment plant operators.

WBAFN has invested $50,100 toward the Internship Program, along with staff and community resources.

Together, WBAFN and Water First are committed to addressing local needs for more young and qualified personnel in the water management field to help ensure safe drinking water in communities.

Not only for today, but for future generations.

Drinking Water Internship Program

May 22nd, 2021

Gearing up for the New Internship in Georgian Bay

April 6th, 2021

Training Designed to Meet a Need

Nobody understands the evolving drinking water challenges and needs of Indigenous communities more than the people who live there. Our training programs are designed to meet the needs that have been identified by our Indigenous community partners. With drinking water challenges, individuals who run treatment plants are vital to sustainable solutions.

We are very excited to share that 16 interns from 8 communities will be hired to train as drinking water operators starting June 2021:

Watch this clip where Mike Murray, project coordinator for the WBAFN Water and Wastewater Treatment Systems HUB, explains how the Water First Internship will benefit the First Nations communities in the Georgian Bay area.

Recruitment and Hiring

Water First and our community partners are gearing up for a combination of virtual and in-person recruitment aimed at building community awareness and generating excitement around the Internship. From our previous experiences, we have found this to be an area where Water First can provide valuable support. Watch for updates this summer when we introduce the new cohort of Water First interns!

Extension of the Bimose Internship and Upcoming Training

April 6th, 2021

We are excited to announce that the Bimose Internship has been extended to continue through to the end of September. This extension offers interns opportunities for more training, more preparation time to challenge exams, including Wastewater Management and Level 1 Operator, and more hands-on work experience in the treatment plants. Group training sessions, tutorials, and one on one individualized sessions will continue in full to support the interns reach their professional goals.

Through the winter months and COVID restrictions, the interns have continued working on remote learning modules related to the Water Quality Analyst (WQA) training and upcoming certification exam taking place April/May.

Most First Nation communities have smaller water treatment systems than urban cities. Depending on the source of their water (lake, wells, pump house) the community has to use one, or a combination of, treatment testing protocols to achieve potable water for their community. Without a WQA certification, tests have to be sent away to a licensed lab causing delays that could affect access to safe drinking water for the community.

A WQA certificate allows interns and operators to take a leadership role in source water protection and expand on their water sampling skills. The WQA certification is especially useful in combination with their Operator in Training (OIT) certification, as operators are often faced with unique challenges that present with the types of drinking water systems that are in their communities.

Virtual Programs with Sagamok First Nation

February 8th, 2021

An update on the Indigenous Schools Water Program

Our team recently delivered our 2nd virtual program, this time to Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik School in Sagamok First Nation.

The What’s In Your Water program was built around a workshop that allows students to go to a local body of water and take measurements of multiple parameters, like pH, hardness, conductivity, and TDS (total dissolved solids).

In the Watershed Mysteries workshop, students take water quality parameters of 5 prepared water samples to determine which hypothetical watershed each sample comes from.

Thank you to Ms. Lefebvre for providing us with the beautiful photos!

For more information on our Indigenous Schools Water Program, click here!

Thank You for a Good News Story

December 31st, 2020

2020 was quite a year! Despite the challenges we faced along the way, we’re proud of our successes. Among many other stories we could tell, here are a few of our accomplishments from 2020:

With clearance from the pandemic committee after postponing all visits, we revisited Long Point First Nation in Winneway, Quebec to reconnect and to scope our two community-suggested sites for restoration work.

Naskapi: The Importance of a Sustainable Fish Population 13

After postponing all community visits, we safely revisited Long Point First Nation in Winneway, Quebec to reconnect and to scope our two community-suggested sites for restoration work.

Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations and Water First announced our new water training partnership beginning in the spring of 2021. Together, we will begin delivering a drinking water treatment and environmental water management training program, which will support ~12 young Indigenous adults to become certified water treatment plant operators.

We halted all visits to communities, and staff worked from home while we adjusted to a new working landscape due to COVID-19, and everything ended up alright!

In late August, interns in the drinking water program with Bimose Tribal Council wrote their Entry Level Curse and Operator in Training (OIT) exams, a significant milestone in the internship program.

Indigenous School workshops, our comprehensive, STEM-based water science programs for K-12 schools, went virtual! The programs transitioned to remote programming, and our team began delivering their first online workshops to students from Beausoleil First Nation!

We created a new, school-aged youth education pilot project, Growing Roots. Through this project, we partner with different communities to expand our youth water science education programming to maximize the involvement of Indigenous youth, leading to long-term environmental action and stewardship.

We continued our 5-year project with the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach in northern Quebec, a project that helps address the community’s concerns about possible water contamination from nearby mining activities.

As we move into the new year, we are excited to continue our work in collaboration with communities across Canada, and we're blessed to have an incredible community of friends, partners, supporters and donors to help us along the way. Happy New Year!

Enviro Week!

October 19th, 2020

A few weeks ago in Kenora, Ontario, the interns in our Drinking Water Internship Program took part in a week-long introduction to water science in the environmental field.

After a long week of studying for the Operator in Training Exam, the interns were able to get out on the land, experiment with some hands-on activities, and experience some of the things they may do after completing the internship.

The first day involved an introduction to equipment and field sheets, as well as some time for reflections and observations. The following day the interns split into two groups to conduct a variety of activities (water quality, benthic sampling, etc.) — one group on the lake and the other in the stream.

Before being mailed out, all resource kits will be carefully prepared, while adhering to strict COVID appropriate sanitization and safety measures.

On the third day we held an adventure race, which had the interns using their GPS units to determine specific locations, followed by a tour of the Kenora Water Treatment Plant on day four.

On the final day of Enviro Week we had a water ceremony to close out the week. Judy Da Silva, Environmental Health Coordinator and activist from Grassy Narrows First Nation, joined us to lead the ceremony and conclude an amazing week.

Thank you to everyone involved in making Enviro Week such a success!

For more information on the Drinking Water Internship Program, click here.

Internship Milestones: Operator in Training Exam

October 14th, 2020

The Water First interns recently wrote their Entry Level Course and Operator in Training (OIT) exams. These exams are significant milestones in the Internship program, and passing this exam is the key step for the interns to become provincially certified as Operators in Training at a Water Treatment Plant.

To help the interns prepare for this particular exam, the Water First team travelled to Kenora to run a week-long review session with the interns. They covered challenging topics and wrote a mock exam to prepare.

Here are a few example questions that could have been on the exam:

The chlorine dosage of a town’s water source is 4.0 mg/L. The chlorine demand for the water is 3.7 mg/L. What is the chlorine residual?
Which of the following samples results would be classified as an “Adverse Result” under Ontario Regulation 170/03?

The internship program isn’t all about operating a water treatment plant. Environmental water monitoring training is included for a comprehensive skill set around water, from the watershed, to source water, and through treatment and distribution. After the big exam, the Water First team and interns spent a week diving into this training, out on the land and on the water. (More on this to come)

We are so proud of the interns and all the work they are doing in their journey to provide safe water for their communities.

Drinking Water Internship Program

September 16th, 2020

Bimose Tribal Council & Water First

July 27th, 2020

The Drinking Water program continues to be a priority for many communities, especially now. Clean and safe drinking water is always critical.

There is strong community demand for our program — and with your support, the program is expanding. Last fall we launched a new internship program in partnership with the Bimose Tribal Council in northwestern Ontario. We currently have 18 young Indigenous adults, from 11 participating First Nation communities, training to become certified water plant operators.

COVID-19 has posed serious challenges to our work. Together with the Bimose Tribal Council, we have been navigating our way, from solving issues with communication access to migrating training and study resources online. The response has proven positive and the program continues to be very successful.

Update on the Drinking Water Internship In Bimose

July 7th, 2020

At the time of our last newsletter we were pivoting our Internship program to remote and interactive online programming. Now that our interns have a few months of online learning experience we have settled into a routine. Each week, the interns receive a Mission Pack. It includes the week’s lesson, reflection questions that connect the week’s lesson to the work in the plant and review questions. Then during the week there are small group, or one on one, tutorial sessions with Water First staff.

As we all know, living in isolation due to the risks of COVID-19 has its challenges. Each intern has had to navigate these challenges, while trying to balance the demands of the program in an online format. Due to COVID restrictions, some of the interns were unable to do the work placements in the water treatment plants. This was the aspect of the program that they were missing the most. We are excited to report that as of the end of June all but three of the interns are back at their work placements at their local water plant, where they are putting the theory they have been learning into practice.

Thanks to our supporters, the Internship program in Bimose is expanding. Eight new interns will be starting in July on a fast track program delivered online. Jen Atkinson, our Director of Operations, explained that during the interview process the candidates expressed a keen interest in protecting and caring for water. They are interested in helping their communities address local challenges. “I anticipate a high motivation level and I look forward to them bringing new energy into the larger group overall.”

First Nations skills-training program has partnership at heart

June 3rd, 2020

Though it’s relatively well known that many First Nations communities don’t have access to clean drinking water, the complicated reasons why – and relevant solutions – are less than obvious. The Trudeau government is working to end all long-term drinking water advisories, prevent short-term advisories from becoming long-term and improve water infrastructure for public systems on reserves by May of 2021. Meanwhile, the Environmental Stewardship Unit of the Assembly of First Nations engages in discussions with the federal government on water legislation and governance. To achieve long-lasting solutions, there are many factors to consider, including laws and regulations for drinking water, adequate construction, operation and maintenance of water systems, and technical support for communities, as explained by Chelsea Vowel in her book Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit issues in Canada. Vowel points out that the way forward includes ensuring the “successful and safe operation of water-service facilities.”

This is why the team at Water First Education and Training has spent the past seven years collaborating with over 50 First Nations communities to collectively weave critical skills training and water science education together with existing community knowledge. The result is the co-creation of programs that hire and train locally to ensure communities retain their expertise for ongoing success. And it’s working. In our journey as a largely non-Indigenous organization, one that’s committed entirely to serving Indigenous communities, we have found that relevant solutions to water challenges emerge through a focus on listening and building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.

Listening leads the way

Together with insights from many First Nations community partners, we have a good handle on the intricacies of how this problem has developed over such a long time-period, with some communities still without clean water after 20 years or more under a boil-water advisory. We know the issue very well – except for having lived through it first-hand ourselves. And this is vital. Although we draw on the expertise of our First Nations Advisory Council – comprising northern First Nations community members, including water treatment and environmental water specialists, community leaders and Elders – for guidance on program development and delivery, we still have our biases and blind spots. Our intentions are good, but we recognize that intentions only go so far. After making connections with First Nations communities, our work begins with travelling to meet, to discuss, to listen.

Many First Nations with drinking water challenges in Canada have identified the need for more young, qualified and local personnel to support solving water issues independently and for the longer term. Yet every community is different, with varying situations that have contributed to these challenges. Understanding what community members and leaders have to say about their priorities and goals has been the catalyst for building adaptability, trust and effective solutions.

Persevering through challenging times

Our recently launched internship program with 11 First Nations affiliated with the Bimose Tribal Council is one of those achievements. In November of 2019, we solidified our partnership to deliver a drinking water treatment and environmental water management program with 13 young Indigenous adults who are in pursuit of their Operator in Training (OIT) and Water Quality Analyst (WQA) certifications, which will launch their careers in the water industry as stewards of their communities’ health and well-being.

After making connections with First Nations communities, our work begins with travelling to meet, to discuss, to listen.

Just months later, COVID-19 poses serious challenges to our joint plans for each intern to accumulate 1,800 hours of on-the-job experience in water treatment plants, which is a requirement for them to become level-one operators. With a lot of communicating, pivoting and trust, the Bimose water internship has developed into a story of perseverance and success through collaborative listening. During the first couple of weeks of the pandemic, the Water First team heard from some First Nations communities that interns were experiencing challenges accessing the internet and some learning resources from home. So, we mailed textbooks and prepaid cell phones. Now the program is progressing in unexpected ways: interns are learning new ways of communicating virtually and program staff are developing online tutorials and team-building exercises to support important peer-to-peer interactions under these unusual and unplanned circumstances. From working on their “why” to performing online quizzes and tutorials – the agility and participation of our interns are critical indicators of a mutually beneficial relationship that is poised to yield results, despite challenging times.

Amy Waboose, from Whitefish River First Nation, is a graduate of the Water First Internship Program who works full-time at her community’s water treatment plant, ensuring the water is safe for everybody to drink. “I just want to make sure it’s healthy. It’s my community, it’s where I come from; I take pride in what I do,” said Amy. “I came in here for a job and I ended with a career.” Amy’s passion for her work is a gift for the next generation. “That’s why I’m doing it,” she said, “… for my family, for everybody here.”

Collaboration and adaptability key to success

Capacity building, done well, is a two-way street. Listening, mutual understanding and meaningful collaboration with our First Nations partners continue to be the platforms for building reciprocal relationships that result in two-way communication and learning. Co-developing effective program strategies that address long-standing water issues, while supporting opportunities for professional development, are the result. As we navigate through these uncertain times of COVID, we have found that a commitment to collaboration and adaptability, now more than ever, is a key driver of a successful partnership. We are hopeful that our interns will one day become program graduates, entering new careers right at home in their communities.

Although we’ve spent our entire careers mastering the arts and sciences in our field, what we bring to First Nations communities is only a portion of what’s on the table. By co-developing programs with those who have the strongest connections and relationships with their communities and land, we can effectively work together to create real and relevant change.

This article was originally published on CERIC’s CareerWise website and has been reprinted with permission.

Water plant operators have an essential role

April 20th, 2020

The last few weeks have been an interesting challenge. And to be honest, Water First is still navigating our new reality. We realize more than ever how our focus on building meaningful partnerships over the past 10 years truly makes a difference today.

Recently, an intern shared their pride in coming to understand the essential role that water plant operators have. Especially during their community’s response to COVID-19.

The only time people think about where their water comes from is when they can't drink it. They don't realize people are working 24 hours a day, testing daily, weekly, monthly, to make sure the water is good.

Jamie Lee Parenteau, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation

Water First Intern

Water First would prefer to be in communities, side-by-side with our partners. But the health and well-being of Indigenous communities is our top priority. So instead, our team has been listening carefully and adapting our programs.

Water First is developing remote and interactive online programming tailored to our interns. We are working closely with each intern to understand their own personal response to the situation. This is top of mind when creating options and exploring digital solutions, especially for remote areas. In partnership with our friends at the Walkerton Clean Water Centre, our drinking water interns were shipped textbooks last week. This will allow our team to tutor interns from afar and help prepare the group for upcoming certification exams.

We are connecting with First Nations school partners, sharing learning resources like these from the National Ground Water Association. We are also supporting students, including a high school group from Lake St. Martin First Nation who are keeping the momentum going on their Water First environmental initiative. Students are creating handmade wooden signs promoting sustainability. As well as planning for gardens in their community, which was recently relocated. As our partners determine plans for the rest of the school year, we will continue to adapt our programming and support.

As always, our focus will remain on pursuing lasting results and inspiring a passion for clean water.

Internship program wins 2019 Water’s Next award

June 19th, 2019

Each year, Water Canada recognizes and celebrates the achievement of people, projects, and technology that address and improve water issues in Canada through the Water’s Next Award. The Water First Internship was one of the finalists for the 2019 Water’s Next Award in the category of Projects and Technology – Drinking Water, which is one of 13 categories of awards issued.

The winners were announced at a gala evening celebration held in Collingwood, ON, on May 30, 2019, where the Water First team proudly accepted the 2019 Water Next’s Award on behalf of the Internship project partners.

Alumni Update

April 1st, 2019

Since graduating, the Interns have been meeting regularly to stay connected, to improve the program, and to pave the way for future interns. They recognize what a powerful experience they have had and want to support future cohorts to be even more successful.

Water First has recently implemented a Professional Development Fund, to invest in Alumni and further their professional development. Alumni have expressed an interest in using these funds to pursue further Ontario water operator certifications, attend conferences and networking events, and to complete other job relevant training.

Many of the interns have also continued their training and are achieving further certifications. This includes five individuals who completed additional drinking water certifications and another who earned his high school diploma.

Alumni have also proudly represented Water First at gatherings and conferences. Most recently, two interns presented on their personal experiences throughout the program at the Assembly of First Nations 2^nd Annual Water Symposium. Interns were also represented at the 2019 Aboriginal Water and Wastewater Association of Ontario’s conference.

And most importantly — these graduates are providing safe clean water for their communities.

Water First at AWWAO Conference

February 11th, 2019

On January 29-31, 2019, Water First team members attended the 24th Annual Aboriginal Water and Wastewater Association of Ontario (AWWAO) Training Conference and Tradeshow in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Two graduates of the Water First Internship program, now Operators-In-Training at their communities’ water treatment plants attended the conference. Water First also had the opportunity to take part in the tradeshow and was a guest speaker at the event’s banquet.

AWWAO acts as a voice for First Nation Plant Operators in Ontario. Among its many objectives, AWWAO promotes the importance of providing safe, potable water to communities, and advocates the importance of maintaining high standards of wastewater operations.

Learn more about AWWAO here.

Internship program profiled in Water Canada magazine

January 21st, 2019

The Water First Internship Program was featured in the January/February 2019 edition of Water Canada, a publication dedicated to covering a range of Canadian water issues. This edition of the magazine focused specifically on issues impacting Indigenous communities, as well as the work of individuals, communities and organizations addressing these issues.

In addition to featuring the internship and its successes, Water Canada also included the perspective of one of the inaugural graduates from the program. Eric Vautour, who was the valedictorian at the August 2018 internship graduation ceremony, spoke of the importance of the program to him and his community.

Read the articles here:

Internship Highlighted as Innovative Initiative

December 17th, 2018

Water First Internship Highlighted as Innovative initiative in Government of Canada Sustainable Development Report

In October 2018, Environment and Climate Change Canada released a report detailing the Government of Canada’s efforts in realizing the 13 aspirational goals set out in its 2016 to 2019 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.

For each goal, the report sets out why each goal is important, overall progress made towards reaching the goal, key activities undertaken, information on risks and challenges, linkages to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development, as well as examples of innovative work taking place outside of the federal government.

Clean Drinking Water Goal: All Canadians have access to safe drinking water and, in particular, the significant challenges for Indigenous communities are addressed.

One of the 13 goals is for all Canadians to have access to safe drinking water, and in particular, to address the significant challenges faced by Indigenous communities in accessing clean drinking water. Pages 89 to 94 of the report summarize the efforts of Indigenous Services Canada in meeting its target of eliminating all long-term boil water advisories on publicly funded systems on First Nations reserves by 2021.

The Water First Internship piloted on Manitoulin Island was identified as an innovative approach to addressing this goal and as an organization taking action in collaboration with First Nations communities toward clean drinking water for everyone.

Internship Program: Blending Traditional Ecological Knowledge with Cutting Edge Technology

June 22nd, 2018

Water First Interns from across Manitoulin Island were brought together for a week in May to explore traditional knowledge along with new technologies.

Interns heard from guest speakers about traditional ecological knowledge and Elders discussed the changes in the migratory patterns of fish and animals. Elders shared their observations about the spread of invasive species in the Manitoulin ecosystem which could be related to climate change and the potential impact on First Nations culture and traditions. Land uses for traditional plants and harvesting in First Nations communities across Manitoulin Island were also explored.

In addition, Interns spent the week completing geographic information systems (GIS) training. This included learning cartographic theory, getting out into the field to collect GIS data, and developing skills in advanced map making. It was great to see their pride in producing individual watershed maps based on the field data they collected. In the future, Interns will be able to apply these skills in developing Source Water Protection Plans for their home communities.

Our Interns had the chance to learn first-hand on sophisticated GIS software donated by Esri Canada. Esri Canada has been a generous supporter of Water First, donating GIS software and licenses for all Water First programs.

“Esri Canada is honoured to partner with Water First, an organization dedicated to supporting humanitarian and conservation efforts, and especially proud that they are doing this work with First Nations communities.” shared Bryan Minhinnett, Inside Sales Representative, Esri Canada. “Environmental sustainability is crucial for Esri and we’re pleased that our software will help Water First carry out their current conservation work and help future First Nation generations manage their water resources.”

Esri Canada will also be donating GIS software to interested Water First partner First Nations communities.

The current Water First Internship Program is operating in collaboration with the seven First Nations communities on Manitoulin Island. After completing the program, the Interns will become certified to work within a water treatment plant and receive support for further education and training in the water science field. The Internship will be wrapping up by the end of the summer and we look forward to sharing more updates in the fall.

Minister’s Annual Report on Drinking Water 2017

April 25th, 2018

At the end of last year, the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change published it’s annual report that provides an overview of the work Ontario is doing to protect drinking water.

Through the Ontario Community Environment Fund, Water First has received grants to help improve drinking water in nine Ontario First Nation communities by involving local youth in water-science workshops, tree planting and stream restoration activities in the Central Abitibi, Goulais, Little Pic, Montreal, Spanish, Sydenham, Upper Groundhog and Whitefish watersheds.

You can read the full report online here.

Drinking Water

On March 22, Water First asks us to reflect on the safety of a resource many of us take for granted

Partnership marks the organization’s first skills training program to operate in Manitoba

Lasting results begin with strong relationships

2023 Annual Report

“For Water First, the most successful projects springboard into enhanced partnerships and deeper relationships. There’s no better feeling than getting invited back to collaborate on a new project.”

With every collaboration Water First embarks on, we strive to first understand what the community wishes for the long term, and then offer support that leverages our technical expertise.

Sheshegwaning First Nation

Saugeen Ojibway Nation

To read more stories like this, check out our

2023 Annual Report

Listening and adapting to community needs

2023 Annual Report

“It was humbling to begin the week beside the water, being welcomed by Kookum Shirley’s Thanks Giving Prayer and student-sung honour song. It brought a clear focus to the rest of the week and a shared goal between us and the students for the rest of the program.”

Adapting to the unique needs and priorities of each community we partner with is a hallmark of Water First’s approach.

To read more stories like this, check out our

2023 Annual Report

Nurturing connections between interns, peers, and communities

2023 Annual Report

“When interns become alumni, they will continue to have the support of the Water First staff. But they also leave with an entire cohort of supporters. No matter where they end up post-internship, they will always have the connections that they built through their fifteen months together.”

To read more stories like this, check out our

2023 Annual Report

Tapping Into Opportunities

Drinking Water Internship Program | Fall 2023

Why Is Each Drinking Water Internship Unique?

Because it Works.

Graduation Day! 🎓

Celebrating the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators

Experiential and Hands On Learning Leads to Success

Highlights from our latest internship

Staying Connected

Water First's Alumni Network

In Their Words

Elijah and Kayla

Save the date: November 30 🗓

Get ready for our next virtual event

New Year, New Internship

Launching our 6th internship in the new year

There is so much to celebrate: New graduates from the program, current interns engaged and seeing success, and a new internship set to launch soon. All of this is possible thanks to our generous supporters. Thank you!

Thank you for supporting Drinking Water interns on their path to careers in water science!

Quarterly Newsletter

Drinking Water

Contents:

Graduation Day! 🎓

Celebrating the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators

Up and Running 🏃🏽‍♂️

Our 5th Internship Program is well underway

Save the date: November 30th! 🗓

Get ready for our next virtual event

Summer Success Stories ☀️

Earning high school credits through experiential learning

Meet Aiden 👋🏼

Better Together 🌊

Deeper relationships lead to greater impact

Park Lake, Labrador 🎣

Restoration for the future

Charity Intelligence ⭐️

Water First Gets 5 Stars

Fall greetings from Water First!

Internship graduates bring technical skills and capacity to critical water issues

Partnership supports technical skills development and community capacity for water resources management

The original plan was for students to visit Fort La Cloche – just a short drive away – to see what Fabian and Max were working on to support the health of local walleye populations, and to visit the local water treatment plant to learn from the people who keep the water safe and clean.

The wildfires put a twist into our plans for the week, and I quickly understood that’s just the reality of this kind of work. When you’re working in the field, Mother Nature will do her thing, or other challenges will arise that mean you have to change priorities or adapt plans.

Charting new waters with the Drinking Water Internship Program

Drinking Water Internship Program | Summer 2023

New Drinking Water Internship collaboration with Ogemawahj Tribal Council

Mentors making a difference in Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation

Interns rise to the challenge of the WQA exam

Graduates and interns connect at a special alumni networking event

North Shore interns gearing up for graduation this fall

Thank you for supporting Drinking Water interns on their path to careers in water science!

With support from Rotary, Georgian Bay Drinking Water Program interns have a bright future ahead.

Legend of the Blackfoot Iniskim (Buffalo Stone)

Sometimes, the most rewarding relationships emerge from unexpected connections. Take this story from Jacey Bonertz, a Technical Trainer & Project Coordinator with Water First.

Here, Jacey talks about how she came to work with Water First, and how she's able to do meaningful work that gives back to the community. And it all started with a chance encounter on Instagram.

Buffalo Stone Clothing Co.

Giving Back

DRINKING WATER INTERNSHIP

Program Update | Fall 2022

Celebrating the Graduates of the Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship

“It was humbling to begin the week beside the water, being welcomed by Kookum Shirley’s Thanks Giving Prayer and student-sung honour song.

It brought a clear focus to the rest of the week and a shared goal between us and the students for the rest of the program.”

There is so much to celebrate:
New graduates from the program, current interns engaged and seeing success, and a new internship set to launch soon. All of this is possible thanks to our generous supporters. Thank you!