An exciting new partnership in California will open doors for the next generation of skilled union water utility workers. Launching in early 2026, the Cal Water Apprenticeship Program, a partnership between the California Water Utility Council (CWUC), California Water Service (Cal Water), and the Power for America (P4A) Training Trust, combines classroom learning with hands-on field experience, offering a structured path into one of California’s most essential industries.
“This is about building a true pipeline for the future,” said Jonathan Harmon, executive director of P4A. “For years, the water sector has struggled to attract and retain new workers especially in high cost-of-living regions like the Bay Area. This program helps recruit and train the next generation from within the communities we serve.”
Addressing the staffing challenge
Cecil Phillips, president of the CWUC, explained that the union was the driving force behind bringing the apprenticeship model to Cal Water. “You can’t just hire skilled labor off the street,” Phillips said. “This program lets us take people who want a career, train them the right way, and make sure they’re ready before they go into the field.”
Under the plan, three apprentices will be hired initially, with room to grow based on future rate case filings. Apprentices will be union members from day one, earning wages and benefits as they train. “They’ll be learning on the job alongside experienced Cal Water mentors while completing required coursework,” Phillips said. “It’s a win-win — the company gets well-trained employees, and our members help shape the future workforce.”
How the program works
The 18-month apprenticeship combines academic instruction, hands-on field training, and on-the-job mentoring. Apprentices will attend Saturday classes through Cañada College, a local community college, where they will complete 144 hours of classroom instruction toward T2 Water Treatment and D2 Water Distribution certifications — both state-recognized credentials essential for water utility careers.
During the workweek, apprentices will train alongside Cal Water foremen and crews, rotating through areas such as distribution maintenance, service work, and treatment operations. According to P4A Project Manager Priscilla Peloubet, “Each apprentice will have a mentor throughout the program to ensure they’re learning both Cal Water’s safety culture and the technical skills needed to succeed.”
The program also places a strong emphasis on safety training, completed within the first 30 to 60 days. Apprentices will earn full pay for a 40-hour workweek throughout their training.
Building a diverse, union workforce
The apprenticeship is also designed to reach underrepresented workers interested in stable, long-term careers in public utilities. “This is about inclusion and opportunity,” said Peloubet. “We’re showing that water isn’t just a job — it’s a career with benefits, union protection, and a future.”
By targeting younger workers and those from other industries, the partners hope to ensure Cal Water has a sustainable workforce ready to replace retiring employees and meet the growing demands of a changing state.
A partnership for the future
The partnership between Cal Water, P4A, and the CWUC represents a major milestone for both the company and the union workforce. It brings the apprenticeship model — long established in other utilities like gas and electric — into the water sector, where formal training pathways have been limited.
“The water industry has lagged behind in this area,” Harmon said. “This program changes that. It creates a standard, repeatable process for bringing people into good-paying, union utility jobs with real career paths.”
Phillips agreed. “Our members care deeply about training the next generation,” he said. “With this program, we’re not just filling positions — we’re investing in the future of safe, reliable water service for California.”
And that investment doesn’t stop at Cal Water. Harmon encourages other UWUA locals to contact P4A to explore similar partnerships. “Whether you’re in water, gas, or electric, apprenticeships are the key to keeping our industries strong,” he said. “P4A can help any local build a training program that meets their needs and strengthens the union for years to come.” Harmon can be reached at jharmon@power4america.org.