Building the Future of Water Utilities – LCWSC Participates in the South Carolina Rural Water’s (SCRWA) Pre-Apprenticeship Program

The water and wastewater industry is the backbone of public health and environmental sustainability, yet many rural communities face a growing workforce gap. To address this challenge, the South Carolina Rural Water Association (SCRWA) in partnership with the Department of Employment and Workforce launched an innovative Pre-Apprenticeship Program, providing direct experience and career pathways for the next generation of water professionals.

Devin Orr, Natural Resources Protection Specialist with the SCRWA reports, “The Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed to introduce high school students and recent graduates to the water and wastewater industry. The program offers participants the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in this essential field, while also serving as a pipeline into full apprenticeship and employment opportunities.”

Orr went on to say, “Participants gain real-world experience working alongside certified water and wastewater operators. The program also equips participants with the knowledge required to pursue state certifications and professional credentials.”

Pre-apprentices are paired with experienced professionals who provide firsthand training, career advice, and networking opportunities. At the completion of the pre-apprenticeship program, participants could transition into full-time roles in the water sector or continue into SCRWA’s Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Rural water and wastewater systems are vital to the health and economy of South Carolina’s communities, yet many utilities struggle to replace retiring workers. The Pre-Apprenticeship Program helps bridge this gap by equipping a new generation with the skills and expertise necessary to maintain and improve critical infrastructure.

“The Pre-Apprenticeship Program is not just about filling jobs—this program is crucial in addressing workforce challenges within the water industry by providing a sustainable pathway for high school students, equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in this sector says KC Price, Engineering Manager at LCWSC. “By investing in workforce development today, we’re protecting the future of our state’s water systems.”

Pictured above, KC Price, Engineering Manager, leads the information session at Laurens District 55 High School.

Jennifer Hunter, CDF/Work-Based Learning Coordinator at Laurens District 55 High School, was instrumental in identifying interested students for LCWSC’s  Pre-Apprenticeship introductory presentation. “Ms. Hunter played a key role in communicating with interested students and serving as a liaison between them and our team,” explained Mr. Price. “Through this collaboration, we were able to select and hire our first two pre-apprentices, Amare Byrd and Remy Hunnicut,

who are currently working at our Lake Greenwood Water Treatment Facility,” said Price.

Those involved in the Pre-Apprenticeship Program are pleased with the progress and impact it has had so far. Johnathan Dickerson, Water Treatment Plant trainee expressed his enthusiasm for the program saying, “Our pre apprenticeship program is a resounding success as it has inspired new interest in the water treatment industry as well as providing a unique learning experience for our students.”

Byrd expressed his enthusiasm of the program stating, “I’ve learned more practical things here than possible to learn in the high school classroom setting.”

“Through education, training, and hands-on experience, the program is creating opportunities for these and other pre-apprentices while safeguarding the essential services that keep our communities running,” said Price.

“Before I started working here, I took clean water and the work that went into it for granted, I am now more appreciative of the effort”, expressed Remy Hunnicutt. “Remy’s comments are proof this program is successful in fostering familiarity with our operations and ensuring the future generation of our workforce understands the vital role of our industry,” Price said.

Price concluded by saying, “Our commitment extends beyond hiring; we actively promote this career path through class visits, facility tours, job fairs, and local school collaborations.”   For more information or to schedule a tour of the Lake Greenwood Water Treatment Facility, email [email protected].

Pictured below, pre-apprentices Amare Byrd and Remy Hunnicutt are learning about the maintenance and operation of the Lake Greenwood Water Treatment Facility.