June 8, 2023, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Students can gain hands-on experience in the in-demand field of municipal water through an internship program developed in partnership with with Grand Rapids Community College, Bay College and the City of Grand Rapids.
Applications are now being accepted for the yearlong Water to Work internship program, which is scheduled to begin Aug. 14, 2023.
Interns work with the City of Grand Rapids Water Department and Environmental Services Department, and are based at the Water Resource Recovery Facility in Grand Rapid or the Lake Michigan Filtration Plant located in West Olive on the Lakeshore.
Interns will make $17.71 per hour, while taking online courses through Bay College and Grand Rapids Community College. As part of the program, participants are mentored by current and retired City of Grand Rapids employees. Completing the program may lead to Michigan Drinking Water and Municipal Wastewater certifications.
“We recognize the value of a strong, diverse workforce, and are dedicated to connecting West Michigan residents to in-demand careers,” said John VanElst, Interim Executive Director, Workforce Training and the Leslie Tassell MTEC. “This model of learning while working is a great example of how GRCC is willing to work not only with employers like the City of Grand Rapids, but also partnering with other institutions like Bay College to provide our community the education and skills needed for rewarding careers.”
The curriculum focuses on water and wastewater operations and management as well as utility management, business, and water career preparation. Additional non-credit professional development workshops are also required.
The program is free for Grand Rapids residents. This project is supported by a national $3.8 million U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant. Participants must be 18 years old or older and have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants are required to pass a background check and take a GRCC math placement test.
“Behind every drop of water, there are hundreds of rewarding careers to explore,” said Hillary Caron, Water Education and Programs coordinator for the City of Grand Rapids. “This program allows you to find a career that aligns with your values and makes a positive impact on our generation and beyond.”
Five interns successfully completed the pilot program. One intern accepted a position with the City of Wyoming, two others are working for the City of Grand Rapids while two others are currently applying for positions with the City of Grand Rapids.
Additional information is available at grcc.edu/watertowork.
