Make a Splash in Your Career with Water to Work
Join Grand Rapids Community College, Bay College and the City of Grand Rapids’ Water to Work program — an innovative pathway to a rewarding career in water management. With paid internships, hands-on learning and a clear career trajectory, this program prepares you for success in a vital, high-demand industry.
Why Choose Water to Work?
- Earn a Water Technology Certificate through Bay College with training that counts toward state licensing requirements for water and wastewater operators.
- Get paid while gaining real-world experience in water treatment, municipal infrastructure and other critical tasks.
- Enjoy a free education, including tuition, books, fees and support services— thanks to the partnership between GRCC, Bay College and local municipalities, funded by the Environmental Protection Agency.
- Launch a career in a growing field with opportunities for career advancement in public works and water management.
- Build a valuable network that supports your professional growth and success in the water industry.
- Pursue a career that directly impacts public health and environmental sustainability.
We are not currently accepting applications at this time. We anticipate to begin collecting applications in July 2025. Be added to our email notification list for future programming updates.
Areas of study
- Aquatics and bacteriology
- Environmental analysis
- Water analysis
- Water operations & management
- Utility management and business
- Water career preparation
- Professional development workshops
Learn more about Bay College’s Water Technology Certificate.
Potential entry-level job opportunities
- Collection System Asset Technician
- Engineering Assistant
- Industrial Pretreatment Program Inspector
- Meter Reader
- Plant Assistant
- Utility Aide
- Utility Field Operator
- Utility Maintenance Mechanic
- Water/Wastewater Operator
- Water Service Worker
Related content
Success Stories
Explore the impact of the program.
Learn more
Learn about what it takes to keep our water safe and sustainable. Water Weekends, boot camp-style workshops, internships and job-shadowing opportunities are currently being developed. If you are interested in being notified when these opportunities become available, please sign up to receive email notification from GRCC.
Haley Kozal
Program Manager
(616) 234-3376
haleykozal@grcc.edu
Hillary Caron
Water Education and Programs Coordinator
(616) 456-3930
hcaron@grcity.us
FAQs
Interested in learning more about this program? Read our frequently asked questions.
What is the Water to Work program?
The Water to Work program is a workforce development initiative by GRCC, in partnership with Bay College and the City of Grand Rapids. It prepares individuals for careers in the water industry through a combination of academic learning, hands-on training and paid internships.
What careers does this program prepare me for?
The program prepares you for roles such as:
- Collection System Asset Technician
- Engineering Assistant
- Industrial Pretreatment Program Inspector
- Meter Reader
- Plant Assistant
- Utility Aide
- Utility Field Operator
- Utility Maintenance Mechanic
- Water/Wastewater Operator
- Water Service Worker
Who can apply to the program?
The program is open to adults 18 and older with a high school diploma or GED equivalent, reliable transportation, and the ability to pass a background check. Ideal applicants are interested in pursuing a career in the water industry. No prior experience is necessary — individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply
- We are not currently accepting applications at this time. We anticipate collecting applications in July 2025.
How long does the program take to complete?
The program takes 12 months to complete. You will start your internship and classes in mid-August and will finish the following August. You may also continue your studies through Bay College to earn your Associate degree in Water Resource Management.
How do I apply to the Water to Work program?
Fill out the GRCC application form and your preferred municipality’s application form. Sign up to be notified when applications open.
When are applications open?
Applications typically open early July each year. Sign up to receive notifications about upcoming application deadlines.
What does the training involve?
The training includes:
- Online coursework through Bay College for a Water Technology Certificate.
- Paid internship at a West Michigan municipality.
Is the coursework online or in person?
The coursework is delivered 100% online through Bay College, allowing you the flexibility to do your school work on your own schedule. Lab work and internships are conducted in-person at Grand Rapids Community College and local municipal water facilities.
Will I get paid during the internship?
Yes! The program offers paid internships where you will work approximately 24 hours per week.
How much does the program cost?
Tuition, lab, and textbook costs are fully covered through EPA grant funding. No out-of-pocket expenses.
What support services are available?
We offer:
- Barrier assessments to identify and address challenges.
- Mentorship from water industry professionals.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Academic support, tutoring and regular check-ins.
- Resource referrals for transportation, child care, and more.
What happens after I complete the program?
Upon completion, you’ll have the skills and credentials needed for state licensing in water and wastewater operations. The program offers job placement support with our dedicated job developers to help you transition into a full-time role.
What is the employment rate for program graduates?
As of February 2025, 93% of interns who completed the program have been offered full-time employment with benefits.
Can I continue my education after the program?
Yes! Many graduates go on to pursue further education, such as completing the Associate degree in Water Technology, or other certifications in the water industry.