Community College Partners with Industry to Train Next Generation of Water Operators

In order to meet the dire need for certified water and wastewater operators, utilities in East Tennessee approached the local community college to develop a new degree program. In 2019, the Water Quality Technology (WQT) Program was launched at Pellissippi State Community College (PSCC), funded by the National Science Foundation. An industry advisory board worked closely with the faculty to provide students with the best academic and practical experience. Local utilities continue to support the program by hosting students for on-site field experiences and paid internships. Students who have completed the program have been employed in successful careers in the water and wastewater sector prior to graduation, and those who have attempted the state certification exams have surpassed average pass rates.