The New York Rural Water Association, Inc. offers two Apprenticeship programs, Water Systems Operations Specialist and Wastewater Systems Operations Specialist. Launched in 2019, this two-year program is designed to groom future operators for successful completion of their initial certification and will provide the community with a fully trained and well-rounded operator upon completion.
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS NOW!
Why is the Apprenticeship for Water & Wastewater So Important?
Clean water doesn’t happen by accident—it takes skilled operators working behind the scenes every day to protect public health and the environment.
The New York Rural Water Association (NYRWA) is proud to serve as the official Sponsor of the Registered Apprenticeship Program, partnering with utilities across the state to train the next generation of water and wastewater professionals.
As part of the National Rural Water Apprenticeship Program, our federally-registered program has been developed in response to the industry’s need to train the next generation of skilled workers and standardize training across the state of New York.
This two-year program offers current and aspiring utility employees the chance to “Earn while they Learn”, gaining the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to build rewarding, long-term careers in the water/wastewater industry.
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Program Overview
- Cost: Tuition is free. Apprentices only purchase books and materials.
- Training: 288 hours of classroom instruction (in-person and hybrid) over 2 years.
- On-site Visits: Opportunities to tour and learn directly from different Water/Wastewater plants.
- Certification Prep: Tailored training to help Apprentices succeed on certification exams.
Apprentice Requirements
- Employed by a Water/Wastewater utility.
- At least 18 years old.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Ability to attend Related Training Instruction (RTI) classes.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide a one-on-one mentor to supervise and sign off on On-the-Job Training (OJT).
- Ensure a safe and supportive workplace.
- Pay wages as outlined in the New York Department of Labor (NYDOL) agreement.
- Comply with NYDOL program requirements.
Benefits of Apprenticeship
- Comprehensive Training: 288 hours of structured classroom instruction.
- Certification Support: Focused preparation for exams.
- Expert Instruction: Learn from professionals with real-job experience.
- Hands-On Learning: On-site visits to a variety of facilities.
NYRWA remains committed to supporting our members and their employees by providing high-quality training that strengthens communities and ensures safe, reliable water service for generations to come.
📍 Beginning in 2026, all in-person classes will be hosted at the W2 Operator Training Group Facility in Cortland, NY.
Stevens Amendment Compliance Policy
National Rural Water Association
Effective Date: October 1, 2025
Purpose:
This policy outlines the requirements for compliance with the Stevens Amendment, which mandates public disclosure of federal funding in communications related to federally funded projects. It ensures transparency and accountability in how federal funds are used and communicated to the public.
Background:
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, sub awardee, and partners of National Rural Water Association who are involved in federally funded projects supported by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Health and Human Services (HHS), or Education. It is intended to provide transparency for taxpayers and ensure federally funded research and work are properly credited.
Policy Requirement:
All public-facing materials that describe or promote federally funded projects must include a disclosure statement that identifies:
The percentage of the total cost is financed with federal funds.
The dollar amount of federal funds provided.
The percentage and dollar amount financed by non-governmental sources (if applicable).
Required Disclosure Format:
The following format must be used in all applicable materials:
“This [project/program/publication] is supported by [Federal Agency/Sub-agency] as part of an award totaling $[amount], with [X]% financed by federal funds and [Y]% financed by non-governmental sources.”
Example:
“This workforce development program is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor. A total of $500,000, or 80%, is financed with federal funds, and $125,000, or 20%, is funded by other sources.”
Materials Requiring Disclosure:
Disclosure must be included in:
Press releases
Requests for proposals (RFPs)
Bid solicitations
Websites and social media posts
Flyers, brochures, posters, and other outreach materials
Award announcements
Press releases
Visual Presentations (e.g. power point presentations)
Exemptions:
The following are exempt from Stevens Amendment disclosure:
Contracts (financial or non-financial)
Internal communications not intended for public distribution
Materials that do not describe or promote federally funded projects
Compliance Monitoring:
The Grants & Compliance Department will:
Provide training on Stevens Amendment requirements
Review materials for compliance
Conduct periodic audits
Non-compliance may result in corrective actions and/or funding conditions.
For questions or assistance, contact:
Shannan Walton Email: shannan@nrwa.org or Amber Jackson amber@nrwa.org
DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR 2026 IS OCTOBER 1, 2026
If you're curious to learn more, please contact Carrie Bolton, NYRWA Apprenticeship Coordinator.
NRWA Apprenticeship Program link https://vimeo.com/user46944862/review/1120759554/60e3aa9a7b
Apprenticeship Day - April 30, 2025
