By Micah Cornelio, Construction Engineering Major, Mentor Sydney Donohue, Anjali Mulchandani. The waste and water industry plays a critical role in public health and environmental sustainability, yet it is facing a workforce shortage as fewer young individuals enter the profession. This decline is largely due to a lack of awareness about the field and the misconceptions surrounding waste and water operations. Many young job seekers are unfamiliar with the career benefits, job security, and opportunities for advancement within the industry. To address this issue, this communication project focuses on developing an interactive search engine-style website that compiles insights from experienced wastewater operators. Through a series of interviews, the platform will provide firsthand knowledge, real-world experiences, and answers to frequently asked questions. The goal is to present an accurate and engaging perspective on the profession, emphasizing its stability, impact on community health, and potential for career growth. By highlighting the benefits of working in the waste and water industry, this platform seeks to change perceptions and inspire the younger generation to explore waste and water operations as a viable and rewarding career path. The Waste and Water Operators Stories website will serve as an accessible, user-friendly resource for students, job seekers, and those interested in learning about the field. By bridging the knowledge gap and offering an inside look into the profession, this project aims to contribute to workforce development and ensure a sustainable future for the industry.
