CFPs: Eliminating Barriers to Entry Water Utilities as Community Partners for Career Pipelines

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is inviting proposals for a 24-month project to explore innovative workforce development strategies in the water industry. The initiative focuses on building partnerships with community organizations and training programs to create career pathways for underrepresented groups while advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Project Overview

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is initiating a research project aimed at strengthening workforce pipelines in the water sector. The project seeks to identify best practices for utilities to collaborate with community-based organizations (CBOs) and training programs, fostering career opportunities for underrepresented populations while benefiting both utilities and local communities.

Funding and Duration

• Project Duration: 24 months

• Funding Available: Up to $175,000

• Eligible Applicants:

  • U.S. and international universities

  • Research institutions

  • Government agencies

  • Consultants and other for-profit entities

Project Goals

1. Identify innovative approaches for utilities to collaborate with community institutions.

2. Develop career pathways that improve workforce diversity and inclusion.

3. Document and analyze successful models for workforce development in water utilities and related infrastructure industries.

Research Focus Areas

• Alignment of Goals: Examine how utilities and community partners can coordinate efforts to maximize workforce development outcomes.

• Barriers to Entry: Identify obstacles faced by diverse populations in entering water sector careers.

• Best Practices: Document case studies, interviews, and examples of effective partnerships.

• Scalable Solutions: Highlight strategies that are replicable across different utilities, community contexts, and program sizes.

Implementation Approach

1. Selected researchers will collaborate closely with the WRF Project Advisory Committee.

2. Researchers will define metrics for a “successful workforce development program.”

3. Analysis will focus on career pipeline initiatives across utilities and associated infrastructure sectors.

4. Recommendations will support utilities in designing strategies to attract, retain, and develop a more diverse and skilled workforce.

Who Is Eligible?

• Universities, research institutions, and government agencies involved in workforce development.

• Consultants and for-profit entities with experience in workforce training or water sector engagement.

• Organizations with the ability to conduct cross-sector research and document community-based programs.

Why This Matters

• Equity and Inclusion: Addresses underrepresentation in the water industry.

• Workforce Development: Provides utilities with practical strategies to attract and retain skilled employees.

• Community Engagement: Strengthens ties between utilities and local communities, creating sustainable workforce pipelines.

How to Apply

1. Prepare a research proposal aligned with project objectives.

2. Demonstrate experience in workforce development, community engagement, or water sector initiatives.

3. Outline methodology for case studies, interviews, and analysis of career pipelines.

4. Submit proposals through WRF’s official application process before the deadline.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting proposals without clear methodology or measurable outcomes.

• Failing to demonstrate prior experience in workforce development or water sector research.

• Ignoring the focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in project design.

• Omitting collaboration plans with community-based organizations or training programs.

FAQ

1. What types of organizations can apply?
   Universities, research institutions, government agencies, consultants, and for-profit entities are eligible.

2. What is the total funding available?
   Up to $175,000 over a 24-month project period.

3. Who benefits from this project?
   Utilities, underrepresented workforce groups, and local communities benefit through improved career pathways and workforce development.

4. What is the expected output?
   Best practice guidelines, case studies, and actionable strategies for utilities to strengthen workforce pipelines.

5. Is international participation allowed?
   Yes, proposals from both U.S. and international organizations are accepted.

6. Will the project address diversity and inclusion?
   Yes, a central focus is creating career opportunities for underrepresented populations in the water sector.

7. Who will oversee the research process?
   The WRF Project Advisory Committee will work closely with selected researchers to ensure alignment with project goals.

Conclusion

WRF’s workforce development project offers a unique opportunity to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in the water sector while strengthening ties between utilities and local communities. By documenting best practices and creating scalable career pathways, this initiative will provide practical solutions for building a skilled and diverse water workforce.