Breaking Ground: Willingboro MUA Launches First-of-Its-Kind Pre-Apprenticeship Program for High School Students
The Willingboro Municipal Utilities Authority (WMUA) is making history this February with the launch of its Pre-Apprenticeship Program at Willingboro High School. Designed specifically for students aged 13 to 18, this innovative initiative is the first program in the country to work directly with high school students, preparing them for meaningful careers in the diversity challenged water industry.
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment
The Pre-Apprenticeship Program offers students a head start on professional opportunities by equipping them with essential knowledge and hands-on experience in water utilities. From understanding the complexities of water treatment to mastering essential skills for system maintenance, participants gain invaluable insights into one of the most critical industries supporting our communities.
This program doesn’t just prepare students for the workforce—it serves as a pipeline to WMUA’s Apprenticeship Program. Upon completion, participants will have the foundational knowledge and skills to seamlessly transition into the next phase of their professional journey.
A Clear Path to Licensure
One of the most exciting aspects of the program is its emphasis on helping students achieve professional certification. With the right preparation and mentorship, students will have the potential to sit for their New Jersey licensing exam shortly after graduating from high school. This achievement could set them apart as skilled professionals in an industry that is vital to public health and environmental sustainability.
Why This Matters
By introducing high school students to the water industry, the WMUA is addressing a growing need for a skilled workforce and diversifying the industry while providing young people with a unique opportunity to secure stable, rewarding careers. At the same time, the program promotes community engagement by encouraging students to explore the impact of their work on local infrastructure and public health.
Leading the Way
As the first program of its kind in the nation, WMUA’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program is setting a precedent for how utilities can engage with youth, invest in the future workforce and address the issues the industry has with diversity, equity and inclusion. It reflects WMUA’s commitment to innovation, education, and sustainability, ensuring that the next generation is prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Enrollment and Impact
Starting February at Willingboro High School, this program is open to students ready to take on the challenge of shaping their futures. By joining, participants not only gain industry-specific skills but also become part of a pioneering initiative that redefines how young people enter the workforce.
The WMUA Pre-Apprenticeship Program is more than an educational opportunity—it’s a launchpad for success, connecting students to their potential and a brighter future.
To learn more, contact Patricia Lindsay-Harvey, WMUA Board of Commissioners Chair, at 609-769-0147.
