Join us for a two-part virtual training series focused on workforce challenges and opportunities across Rhode Island’s water sector. Workforce development is a cross-cutting issue that impacts a wide range of roles, from drinking water and wastewater operations to green infrastructure maintenance and local governments. These interactive sessions will highlight examples from Rhode Island and the broader New England region, showcasing partnerships, practical tools, and ideas to recruit, retain, and support the next generation of professionals.

Description: This session focuses on strategies to recruit new talent and communicate workforce needs to leadership and decision-makers. Participants will explore what motivates different audiences to pursue water-related careers, practical approaches for strengthening recruitment efforts, and techniques for building support for workforce investments within their organizations and communities.

Register for Part 1: Retaining Talent and Preparing for Workforce Transitions Here

Learning Objectives:

• Identify what motivates different audiences and generations to pursue water careers
• Develop targeted messaging strategies that speak to diverse candidate values and interests
• Learn practical tips for optimizing job postings and using outreach channels that attract qualified candidates
• Understand how to frame workforce priorities to strengthen leadership buy-in
• Learn how to craft persuasive messages that resonate with boards, executives, or elected officials

Instructor: Averi Davis, Program Manager; and Susan McGrattan, PE, Technical Specialist, Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center

Certificates: This training has been submitted for pre-approval of continuing education credits though we cannot guarantee it. Regardless, we will provide attendees with a Certificate of Attendance for their personal record. 

Who Should Attend: Local governments, DPWs, water and wastewater utilities, Tribal utilities and community partners, green infrastructure practitioners, workforce development organizations, community-based organizations, regional planners, and training and technical assistance providers.

Hosted by the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center in partnership with the Southeast New England Program (SNEP) Network and the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)