The first level of Thompson Rivers University’s innovative Water Treatment Technology Program will be offered this January at the Williams Lake campus. Applications are now being accepted for the fulltime, 15-week program.
The Water Treatment Programis a world class educational initiative designed by TRU to address the training standards in the water treatment industry. The primary objective of the program, which includes four levels of certification leading to a full diploma, is to provide a comprehensive educational opportunity for immediate and future water plant operators and managers.
“We are very excited to be able to offer the water treatment credential in Williams Lake,” said Gerry Desrochers, director Williams Lake Campus. “The importance of maintaining a safe, secure water supply is critical in any community; in creating this new education opportunity, delivered at the new Williams Lake campus, using state-of-the art equipment, TRU is pleased to be able to do its part in assuring water quality for Cariboo residents.”
Space is expected to be available for 16-20 students in the first level of the program, which includes fulltime courses in Water Sources, Water Treatment I, Applied Math and Science, Mechanical Systems and Environment, and Safety and Communications. The Level 1 Certificate is open to entry level students.
In terms of employment prospects, in the next 10 years estimates indicate that 47 per cent of water and wastewater operators in the Province of BC will have retired. As water systems and treatment become more regulated and complex, there will be a need for operators to be more skilled than in the past and new legislation requirements are insisting on certified operators.
The TRU program has already attracted the attention of First Nations communities, and may present an opportunity for displaced forestry workers, and working operators in water and waste water treatment, distribution and collections employed by municipalities, regional districts, and the forest and mining industries.
Contact:
- Gerry Desrochers, Director Williams Lake, (p) 250.392.8000
- Satwinder Paul, Program Coordinator, (p) 250.371.5955.
