Making wastewater treatment careers accessible: MWRD and retirees join City Colleges to launch new curriculum

Breadcrumb

1. Home
2. News
3. Making wastewater treatment careers accessible: MWRD and retirees join City Colleges to launch new curriculum

A new class curriculum created by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) and City Colleges of Chicago introduces a new generation of students to careers in wastewater treatment.

The course known as "Clean Water Smart Solutions" begins Sept. 8 and runs on Tuesdays from 4-8 p.m. through Oct. 13. Students will learn the fundamentals of wastewater treatment at Wilbur Wright College, 4300 N. Narragansett Ave., Chicago. It is part of an effort by the MWRD to expand its workforce and make learning opportunities more accessible for careers in water. The MWRD and retired employees have worked with City Colleges of Chicago to develop curriculum that can lead to certificate programs and educational paths related to water treatment and technologies.

"Training the future generations is essential because we know that managing our water systems and wastewater treatment facilities will forever require the skills of talented workers," said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. "We thank City College of Chicago, our retirees and Environmental Justice Section for launching this program and inspiring future careers for the people who rely on our service and call our communities home."

MWRD staff serves as members of the US Water Alliances' Workforce Taskforce, partnering for the last couple of years to advance issues related to Water Workforce Development. Retired MWRD scientists and engineers have helped to develop courses and teach them. The first cohort completed the certificate program at Olive-Harvey College on the South Side, and a two-year degree option is currently being developed at Truman College on the North Side.

"City Colleges of Chicago is excited to partner with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District to build a pathway into essential, high-demand careers in wastewater treatment. With this course, taught by industry expertise, we are equipping our communities with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue critical careers that strengthen our city and protect our environment," said Wilbur Wright College President Andrés A. Oroz. "We are grateful to MWRD for working with us to prepare a workforce that will sustain our region's water infrastructure for the generations to come."

The Clean Water Smart Solutions course at Wilbur Wright College offers a comprehensive exploration of modern wastewater treatment systems, focusing on the science, engineering and operations that ensure safe and effective water sanitation. Through real-world applications and case studies, students are taught critical insight into each stage of wastewater treatment. Designed for professionals entering or advancing in environmental services careers, public utilities or municipal engineering, the course emphasizes environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance and operational safety in wastewater management. To learn more, visit City Colleges of Chicago website.

"This collaboration demonstrates how education and a utility can come together to meet critical workforce needs," said Commissioner Beth McElroy Kirkwood. "By offering accessible, high-quality training, we're preparing students for meaningful careers that protect public health and strengthen our region."

For more information, visit www.ccc.edu or call 773-COLLEGE.

About City Colleges of Chicago

As the city's most accessible higher education engine of socioeconomic mobility and racial equity, City Colleges of Chicago catalyzes our students' capacity to prosper and take part in building a stronger and more just Chicago.