Resources for Utilities
Community outreach is key to recruiting the next generation of water professionals. Below is a collection of resources and ideas to help you connect with schools, community groups, and potential future employees.
Getting Started with Community Outreach
Building relationships with your community doesn't have to be complicated. Start small and grow your program over time. Even simple efforts like participating in a career fair or hosting a facility tour can plant seeds that grow into future applications and interest in water careers.
Who to Engage
​High School Students - Many don't know water careers exist beyond what they see on the street. Show them the technology, science, and variety of roles available.
Community College Students - Perfect timing to introduce water programs and apprenticeship opportunities.
Career Changers - Veterans, manufacturing workers, and others looking for stable, meaningful work.
Community Groups - Rotary clubs, chambers of commerce, and civic organizations whose members influence young people.
Parents and Guidance Counselors - They often guide career decisions and need to understand the opportunities available.
Calendar of Key Dates and Celebrations
Use these dates to plan your outreach activities, social media posts, and community events:
Outreach Ideas
School Partnerships
Facility Tours - Nothing beats seeing the technology in action. Prepare age-appropriate explanations and highlight different job roles throughout the tour.
Classroom Presentations - Bring props, uniforms, and equipment. Science classes love water quality demos, and math classes can learn about flow calculations.
Career Day Participation - Go beyond just talking about jobs. Bring equipment students can handle and problems they can solve.
Internship Programs - Partner with high schools and community colleges to offer hands-on experience.
STEM Fair Judging - Volunteer to judge science fairs and connect with students interested in water-related projects.
Community Engagement
Open Houses - Host annual events where people can ask questions and meet your team.
Festivals and Farmers Markets - Set up booths with interactive displays and career information.
Service Club Presentations - Rotary, Lions Club, and Kiwanis meetings are great venues to reach people who are active in your community.
Social Media Spotlights - Feature different employees and their career journeys.
Key Messages to Share
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Job Security - Water is essential infrastructure that's always needed
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Career Growth - Multiple paths from entry-level to management
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Good Benefits - Stable employment with competitive compensation
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Meaningful Work - Protecting public health and the environment
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Technology Focus - Modern water systems use cutting-edge technology
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Training - Many positions don't require a college degree and offer on-the-job training
Remember!
Effective outreach is about building relationships, not just filling immediate openings. The students you meet today may become your employees in 5-10 years. Invest in your community, and your community will invest in your success.
For additional resources or to share your successful outreach strategies, contact us. Together, we can build a stronger workforce for South Carolina's water industry.