Partners for Places – Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative

Partners for Places – Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative

The Future-Forward Water Workforce Program, a partnership between Jersey Water Works (JWW), New Jersey Future (NJF), Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA), and Atlantic City Municipal Utilities Authority (ACMUA), is actively advancing a water workforce initiative supported by the Partners for Places Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative. The program has reached a milestone, enrolling 20 individuals in professional development courses. 

The collaborative partners are focused on addressing the challenges associated with upskilling staff, ensuring they are prepared to innovate and meet today’s demands while also creating pathways for their own professional development. One of the primary challenges for talent in the water sector is a significant shortage caused by a large retiring workforce and an insufficient pipeline of new professionals to fill vacant positions. Retaining staff has become even more important. 

In addition, the water sector provides a wide range of career opportunities; however, many of these roles require up-to-date mechanical and technical knowledge. Educational requirements for jobs in this sector can vary from a high school diploma to college degrees, along with necessary licenses and certifications. Even positions that only require a high school education may require candidates to have a strong background in math. Employees who enter the field without these skills, knowledge, or licenses may struggle to advance in their careers. Not everyone has access to education and credentialing classes. Frontline communities and many utility staff are struggling to access quality educational resources in science and math, or may find professional development courses expensive to attend. 

Furthermore, communication barriers are a common challenge for teams across sectors, including utilities. Problem-solving, conflict management, and communication in a professional setting are important skills for professional growth. This is important because the rise of electronic communication diminishes face-to-face interaction skills, especially among younger generations. 

“At ACMUA, we recognize that the challenges facing today’s water sector are constantly evolving — from advancing technologies and infrastructure demands to workforce development and operational efficiency. Through the Partners for Places Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative, we are committed to creating a culture of continuous learning and professional growth across the entire organization. Upskilling is not limited to one department or role; it is an organization-wide investment in our people. By strengthening knowledge, expanding skill sets, and encouraging ongoing development, we are preparing our workforce to adapt, innovate, and meet the needs of the communities we serve both today and in the future.” – India P. Still, JD, LLM, Executive Director, Atlantic City Municipal Utilities Authority

“As a utility dedicated to strengthening its team and growing talent from within, the Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) is proud to partner in the Future-Forward Water Workforce Initiative. The program aims to remove barriers that may limit growth and prevent staff from building a lasting career in the water industry. It provides participants with the foundational skills needed to successfully operate a utility while increasing retention, boosting employee confidence, and ensuring excellent service for our community. We’re excited to work alongside the Atlantic City Municipal Utilities Authority, Jersey Water Works and New Jersey Future to develop the next generation of skilled water professionals.” – Matthew DeNafo, President, Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA)

The Future-Forward Water Workforce Initiative provides several opportunities: 

• Access to Opportunities: Ten staff members at each entity are participating in professional development courses to enhance their skills. Courses they are taking include Business Analysis & Data Analytics, CDL Training, EleHVAC II, EmpowerU, Introduction to Wastewater, Strategic Communication for Public Leaders, Customer Skills for Utility Operations, Accounting and Financial Management, Microsoft Office Skills, HR Essentials, ArcGIS and Data Development, and Practical Project Management. These different courses equip utility staff with essential skills and certifications, strengthening both employee performance and utility operations. Grant and matching utility funding covers all course costs.
• Cohort Based Learning: In the fall, program participants will engage in five professional development classes together and learn in community. They will connect with others for peer learning and additional skill development. These classes will be open to additional utility staff, not just the 20 participating in the classes. 

ACUA and ACMUA are facilitating water-focused projects with multiple infrastructure benefits for communities. ACUA received $10 million in funding through the NJ Infrastructure Bank for upgrades to its wastewater treatment plant. Of that, $2 million is being offered as a grant from BIL capitalization grants through the USEPA. The project is designed to enhance the operation of its wastewater facility and solids handling process. ACMUA received funding for the Lead Service Line Replacement Program, $19.8M, also funded through iBank.

ACUA and ACMUA are anchor institutions in their community, and they actively connect with residents to promote their services and enhance community education. Individually, they participate in over 50 events throughout the year, including visits to schools and various local gatherings like career fairs and green markets. The partners are committed to engaging in these activities to share valuable information with the community.

Atlantic City is an overburdened community as defined by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). New Jersey’s overburdened communities are identified by specific census data factors: at least 35% low-income households, or at least 40% minority/tribal residents, or at least 40% households with limited English proficiency.

Learn more about the partners:  

Atlantic County Utility Authority (ACUA) is responsible for enhancing the quality of life through the protection of waters and lands from pollution by providing responsible waste management services. The Authority is an environmental leader and will continue to use new technologies, innovations and employee ideas to provide the highest quality and most cost effective environmental services.

Atlantic City Municipal Authority (ACMUA) mission is to deliver the highest quality potable drinking water in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner while working together as one team for our customers.

New Jersey Future (NJF) promotes sensible and equitable growth, redevelopment, and infrastructure investments through original research, innovative policy development, coalition-building, advocacy, and hands-on strategic assistance. 

Jersey Water Works (JWW) brings people together to find solutions focused on clean water and waterways, healthier and safer neighborhoods, local jobs, flood and climate resilience, and economic growth. Jersey Water Works utilizes a collective impact model and NJF is the backbone organization for the collaborative.