All water utilities, especially small systems, are struggling to recruit and retain experienced staff. What is going to happen when your system’s long-term operator or manager retires? Who knows all that they know? This workshop will focus on succession planning, operator recruitment and staff retention strategies. We will discuss the links between workforce development, system sustainability, and long-term planning that also includes communicating with decision-makers.

You will learn:
– How to analyze the gaps in your current workforce and strategically rebalance for efficiency.
– How to write compelling job descriptions and rebrand your workplace culture so that you will attract qualified applicants to your candidate pool and retain excellent talent long-term.
– Strategies for recruiting and working with Millennials, and succession planning tips to prepare your utility for the Baby Boomer retirement phase.

Trainer: Tonya Bronleewe, Program Manager, and Leslie Kimble, Marketing Coordinator – Wichita State University Environmental Finance Center

Contact: Leslie Kimble, leslie.kimble@wichita.edu

Who Should Attend: This workshop is designed for water systems serving 10,000 or fewer people (though systems of any size may attend), especially targeting local government systems facing financial challenges. Owners of privately owned systems, consultants and technical assistance providers serving water systems are also invited to attend.

Partners: