I’m pleased to share that we officially launched our Pre‑Apprenticeship Bridge to Careers Program a few weeks ago. This two‑week initiative offers participants a front‑row view of the work behind major efforts like the Water Reliability Plan, while helping position residents for family‑sustaining careers in the skilled trades, the water sector, and related fields.

Our infrastructure investments are already generating hundreds of new jobs. The program aims to connect these opportunities with community members who are entering the workforce or considering a career shift. It also helps prepare for an anticipated employment gap, with more than 30% of our industry projected to reach retirement eligibility in the next 5 to 10 years.

The Pre‑Apprenticeship Program reflects a strong internal partnership between Human Resources and our Engineering & Construction team, and is delivered in collaboration with Partner4Work. By the end of the program, participants gain a clearer understanding of potential career paths and an expanded professional network to support future opportunities.

As Pittsburgh Water makes historic investments in our region’s infrastructure, we have a unique chance to help build meaningful career pathways for our neighbors. Just as the Water Reliability Plan represents a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to modernize our distribution system, this program offers a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to prepare residents for future careers in water and related industries.

Strengthening Pittsburgh’s infrastructure also means investing in the people who build and maintain it. I’m confident this program will continue to grow, supporting both our organization and our community as we work to cultivate and attract a world‑class team of dedicated, local employees.

For more information, please see our recent press release about the program.

- Will Pickering, CEO, Pittsburgh Water