New Jersey American Water (NJAW) celebrated the graduation of 11 participants from its fifth annual Water Utility Pipeline (Water UP!) program this week at Essex County College. The graduates, hailing from communities including Newark, Irvington, and Plainfield, completed the intensive workforce development initiative and are now prepared for entry-level careers in the essential water industry.
The Water UP! program is a paid, 10-week initiative designed to address the growing need for skilled utility professionals, focusing on strengthening the future workforce pipeline for safe and reliable water service.
The program successfully prepares graduates for immediate roles in operations, mechanics, water quality, and customer service. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with rigorous practical experience:
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Hands-on Field Training: Participants trained at NJAW’s Short Hills Operations Center, rotating through roles like utility mechanic and field services representative. They gained real-world experience repairing water mains, operating specialized tools, and responding to service calls.
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Professional Certification: Graduates earned the highly valued OSHA 30 certification and technical elective college credits.
“Water UP! is launching these graduates into meaningful careers while helping to ensure the future of safe, reliable water for our communities,” Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water said. “We’re not just building a workforce; we’re bolstering the foundation of public health and infrastructure for years to come.”
Since its launch in 2021, the Water UP! program has trained over 40 residents across multiple counties, with many securing positions in utilities and construction.
Graduate Tiffany Muhammad shared her experience, noting the program’s broader impact: “This program showed me that the water industry isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about people, service, and stewardship. Because of Water UP!, I feel prepared and motivated to contribute to this essential work.”
Community leaders praised NJAW and Essex County College for their continued commitment to workforce development. Karen Gaylord, executive director of the Newark Workforce Development Board, stated, “Opportunities in this field are critical to preserving our natural resources and infrastructure. This is a journey, and I applaud your brilliance.”
Augustine Boakye, president of Essex County College, added that the program helps the college fulfill its vision: “You will represent both Essex County College and New Jersey American Water wherever you go, and we expect to see you shine.”
The graduating class participated in a career fair featuring recruiters from New Jersey American Water and industry partners to facilitate immediate employment opportunities.
