Written by: Anthony Craven, Project Manager, Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute
Water utilities nationwide are facing a critical workforce challenge as experienced operators, managers, and technicians approach retirement. In this episode of the Environmental Finance Center Network Podcast, Anthony Craven and Eric Williams of the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute are joined by David Karr of Mitchell Technical Services to discuss how utilities can prepare for an aging workforce. Drawing on more than 35 years of experience in the public utility sector, including service as Public Works Director for the City of Batesville, Mississippi, Karr shares practical insights on succession planning, workforce development, knowledge transfer, and building a strong pipeline of future utility professionals.
Timestamps:
- Introductions: 00:40
- Introduction of the “Aging Workforce” Problem: 03:00
- How Significant is the workforce issue for water utilities & what are the trends? 3:45
- Do you see more people coming into the sector from the public or private side? 5:15
- How much of an issue is an aging workforce nationally? 8:00
- What risks and challenges does this problem pose? 10:00
- Sharing water operator knowledge with the next generation: 11:50
- Barriers to attracting and retaining talent: 13:55
- How to combat negative connotations around water and wastewater operator jobs: 17:15
- What should utilities do to prepare for the next generation of the workforce? 20:00
- Final Takeaways: 21:10
Additional Resources:
- EFCN Blog | Building the Future of Small Water Systems: Workforce Challenges, Potential, and Opportunities
- EFCN Blog | How’s the Weather Today? Wastewater Workforce Forecasting
- EFCN Webinar | Tips for Retaining a Happy, Healthy Water Workforce