Water and Wastewater Operator Program at Yukon College receives support

WHITEHORSE—The Department of Education is pleased to announce an investment of $150,000 in the Water and Wastewater Operator program at Yukon College, an important step in implementing the new Yukon Water Strategy and Action Plan.

“Maintaining and improving access to safe drinking water is a priority for the Yukon government and is of critical importance to Yukon communities,” Minister of Education Elaine Taylor said This is being accomplished through both training and continued investments in water and waste water infrastructure.”

The water industry is a rapidly changing and growing career area in Yukon. The Water and Wastewater Operator program provides a range of courses to train students who are seeking a career in the water industry and to enable experienced industry workers to maintain certification, expand skills and keep up with changing technology.

“Students taking courses from this program have found employment with territorial, municipal and First Nations governments across Yukon,” Yukon College president Dr. Karen Barnes said. “The training provided is critical to maintaining the health and well-being of all Yukoners, and we are grateful for the support of Minister Taylor and the Yukon government in continuing the program.”

The Yukon Water and Wastewater Operator Program was previously supported through the Northern Strategy Fund and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada. The Yukon government is now funding the program for an additional two years.

“The Association of Yukon Communities values these offered-in-the-Yukon programs,” AYC president Wayne Potoroka said. “Communities are on the front line of water and wastewater operations, and it’s critical the necessary training is readily available so operators can maintain their skills.”