ANNOUNCEMENT: 2024 Apprenticeship Program enrollment cycle has ended. Next enrollment begins on February 3, 2025.

CONGRATULATIONS to Rodney Salazar and Benjamin Rodriguez on being the first graduates of the CRWA Apprenticeship Program! This is a monumental achievement for both the Town of La Jara and the City of Walsenburg. Wishing them all the best as they approach their graduation in Loveland, CO, in 2025! Their hard work and dedication are truly commendable!

CRWA Apprenticeship Program

Water & Wastewater System Operations

Our industry is changing.

Thousands of water industry workers are expected to retire over the next five to ten years, leading to a huge gap to fill our Water and Wastewater Systems Operation Specialists jobs. Through the CRWA program, apprentices will gain knowledge from industry professionals who have the appropriate experience and know the required certifications and qualifications. The apprentice will leave the program able to thrive as a water industry professional. The CRWA apprenticeship program provides apprentices, 18 years old and above, opportunities to learn water and wastewater industry knowledge and practices through on-the-job training and classroom instruction to improve the overall professionalism of the industry and to support our members’ continued workforce needs.

Become an Apprentice.

Our Department of Labor recognized training program was developed in response to the industry’s need to train the next generation of skilled workers and standardize training across the state of Colorado. Once an Apprentice completes this 2 year program and passes an aptitude tests given by the State of Colorado, he or she is considered a Certified Operations Specialist and can do tasks unsupervised making this person invaluable to your water or wastewater systems. CRWA is currently recruiting qualified candidates for our apprenticeship program!

APPLY NOW

Why Apprenticeship?

Apprentice Benefits

Earn while you learn - offers skill development and knowledge while earning an income, but you must secure a job first to participate.
Make a real difference in local communities
Gain practical skills you can use immediately on-the-job
Train alongside an experienced Operations Specialist (2 year program)
Every community is required to have an ORC (Operator in Responsible Charge)
Stable/Non-fluctuating industry

Utility Benefits

Proven solution to recruit, train & retain employees
Replace retiring workforce/grow your replacements from within
Transfer knowledge from experienced Operations Specialists to Apprentice
2 years of hands-on training alongside experienced Operations Specialist
Build a relationship with the Apprentice
Ensure well-rounded, highly trained Operations Specialists are produced

Want to learn more?

Speak with our Apprenticeship Coordinator to see if our Apprenticeship Program fits your needs!

Job placement assistance is available.

Non-Discrimination Statement

NRWA and our State Affiliate Registered Apprenticeship Program sponsors (CRWA) will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 40 years old or older. The sponsor will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 30.

FAQs

Do I have to travel to the CRWA office for classes?

Apprentices will have the option to participate in scheduled classes virtually.

How much does the program cost?

We estimate the program will be in the five-thousand-dollar range. Eligible communities may apply for financial support to include tuition match, mentor wage reimbursement, and travel reimbursement. The employer is responsible for paying apprentice wages.

Can I get credit for previous experience and training?

Yes! Previous experience and training must be approved by the Apprenticeship Coordinator.

What happens after the apprenticeship is completed?

Upon completion of the program, the apprentice will receive a nationally recognized credential. The apprentice must take the appropriate licensing exam through DOPL to become a licensed Operations Specialist. Although it is not a requirement, most apprentices continue working for their employer sponsor after they complete the program.

What is the role of the employer sponsor?

The employing utility acts as the employer sponsor. Prior to participating in the program, an employer participation agreement must be sent to CRWA for approval. The employer sponsor is required to provide appropriate training and supervisor as well as maintain employment and on the job training records.

How do I get started?

To be considered as an employer sponsor, the utility must review the Standards of Apprenticeship. This can be attained through the Apprenticeship Coordinator.