City of Elkins Wastewater Department Launches New Apprenticeship Program

ELKINS, WV — October 21, 2025 — The City of Elkins Wastewater Department announces the launch of its new, grant-funded Apprenticeship Program, offering a paid pathway to a stable and skilled career. Applications for the program will open from November 1, 2025, through December 1, 2025.

The 26-month program is designed to provide hands-on training and paid work experience, combining supervised practical experience with formal instruction. Upon completion, apprentices will have gained the more than 2,000 hours of experience required to receive a West Virginia Class I Wastewater Certification.

The program’s total cost of $60,000 is fully covered (100%) by a U.S. Department of Labor–Employment and Training Administration grant.

“The Wastewater Department’s staff is excited about the opportunities this apprenticeship program offers,” said Whitney Hymes, Wastewater Superintendent/Chief Operator Class V Wastewater Operator for the City of Elkins. “We had a great deal of interest in the program when Davis & Elkins College students visited the plant for a tour last week. We look forward to receiving applications for what we believe will be a competitive and rewarding program for residents of Elkins and North Central West Virginia.”

The program will equip apprentices with essential skills in equipment operation and maintenance, sample collection and testing, and monitoring and data recording. This apprenticeship develops the necessary technical skills for a career in a complex and vital profession, leading to state certifications and employment opportunities in the wastewater management sector upon completion.

Program Benefits and Details:

• Paid Experience and Hands-on Training: Apprentices will earn a fair wage while they learn in a field that is critical to public health and the environment.
• Career Pathway: Successful completion leads to a Class I Wastewater Certification and opportunities for further career advancement.
• Full Funding: The total cost of the $60,000 program is fully funded through a U.S. Department of Labor–Employment and Training Administration grant.
• Open to Eligible Candidates: Applicants must be a minimum of 16 years old (and minimum 18 years old upon completion); will be required to submit a short essay; and must pass a drug test screening.

To learn more, please visit the Wastewater Department’s site at https://cityofelkinswv.gov/departments/utilities/wastewater/. Potential applicants who have questions may also contact Ms. Hymes at whymes@cityofelkinswv.gov or by phone at 304-636-1122. Program brochures are available for download below.

Wastewater Apprenticeship Program Brochure