HAGERSTOWN, MD (August 14, 2018) – The Washington County Department of Water Quality recently received approval to implement a Wastewater Operator Apprenticeship training program. The Maryland Training and Apprenticeship Council unanimously approved the department’s request, allowing the Department of Water Quality to become only the second approved active waster operator program in the state of Maryland.  

Kevin McClanathan, Chief Plant Operator at Winebrenner Wastewater Treatment Plant in Washington County, said, “We are excited to get our program off to a good start. With support and guidance from Maryland’s Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR), we hope to offer an incredible opportunity for anyone seeking a career in the bio-tech industry. This is just the first step in what we believe will be a very successful program that we plan on expanding.”

Having a recognized approved program will now allow the Department of Water Quality to work with DLLR to recruit individuals with an aptitude and interest in a bio-tech career. The County's intense 3-year program will include training in biology, hydraulics, automated systems, laboratory procedures, mathematics, management, budgeting, and industrial safety. When complete, the apprentice will become a Senior Plant Operator licensed by the Maryland State Board of Waterworks and Wastewater Operators .

The program will be supervised by Kim Bowers, Superintendent of Operations, Kevin McClanathan, Chief Plant Operator Winebrenner WWTP, with staff support from Administrative Assistant Lacey Capshaw.

For information regarding the apprenticeship program, please contact Jennifer Runkles , Western Maryland Apprenticeship Navigator from the Maryland DLLR.