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Training the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators
Benefits to communities
- Up to 2 full-time paid interns per community; positions lasting 15 months
- 2,000 hours in the classroom, at local water treatment facilities, and out on the land
- Includes local Traditional Knowledge incorporated with community guidance, strengthening program success
- Graduates are provided opportunities to write all provincial water treatment certification exams, up to and including Level 1 & Water Quality Analyst Certification Exam
- Graduates trained in mapping and GIS, and environmental water sampling
- Supports increased female participation in the water sciences
- Supports an increased number of local, certified water treatment plant operators
- Supports enhanced sustainability of water treatment plants, local source water and environmental water bodies
Existing water treatment staff are doing a great job with available resources, and at the same time we all acknowledge the need for more young people to enter the water field.
PHASE 1
Partnership Exploration
and Planning
Recruitment and Hiring
(Interns and Local Coordinator)
Community Engagement
Information Sessions
PHASE 2
- 10 week-long training workshops
- Drinking water certification exams
- Work placements in community water treatment plants
- Online learning modules
- Online tutorials
- Mentoring
Beyond the technical skills
Wrap-around supports such as childcare services and transportation ensure the program works for a diverse set of participants. Interns are also supported in areas such as resume writing, interview prep and employment coaching, while increasing their contacts in the Indigenous water field. Graduates of the program become part of the Water First Alumni Network, which provides continuing career development opportunities and an ever expanding professional network.
Long-term sustainable outcomes
The Internship program helps communities in a meaningful way with sustainable outcomes. Our partners have strengthened capacity in managing and stewarding their water resources for the long term.
Trust building, meaningful partnerships and lasting results
Water First’s collaborative approach sets us apart. Trust building, meaningful partnerships and lasting results are key strands that are woven together to form Water First’s work. We strive to understand our partner communities’ needs and preferences, and to adapt the design and delivery of our program to unique community circumstances. This approach is critical to program success and leads to strong partnerships and lasting results.
