West County Wastewater targets local labor pipeline under project stabilization agreement

West County Wastewater targets local labor pipeline under project stabilization agreementFacing community frustration over how to enter the utility sector, the district's Finance & Administration Committee is demanding clear, accessible outreach materials to connect local students and transitioning workers with union apprenticeships and community college programs.

A recent quarterly report showed 12 employees working under the district's active PSLA, but only one from West Contra Costa.

Committee members requested digital and physical collateral outlining exact steps for high school students and transitioning workers to enter the water sector.

The district plans to coordinate with the Contra Costa Building Trades and local community colleges to demystify the hiring process.

An update on the district's Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is scheduled for August to notify trades of upcoming PSLA-eligible projects.

West County Wastewater District (WCWD) is ramping up efforts to demystify career pathways into the water and wastewater sector, leveraging its Project Labor Stabilization Agreement (PSLA) to build a stronger local workforce pipeline. During a June 11 Finance and Administration Committee meeting, officials reviewed a quarterly PSLA update that highlighted a need for better local recruitment. Director of Infrastructure and Planning Angela Andrews reported that for the district's active Clean and Green project, 12 out of 70 contractor employees were from Contra Costa, but only one hailed specifically from West Contra Costa. Committee members noted frequent inquiries from high school graduates and transitioning workers who are eager to enter the utility sector but are frustrated by a lack of clear direction. Director Annie King-Meredith pointed out that many applicants do not realize the specific certifications and community college training required before they can be considered for these highly technical and safety-sensitive roles. To bridge this gap, Chair Cheryl Sudduth requested the creation of straightforward physical and digital collateral—such as a single-page guide—that outlines the exact steps for entering the industry. The guide would detail recommended high school courses, relevant community college programs, and union apprenticeship requirements. The district plans to coordinate with the Contra Costa Building Trades, local community colleges, and the regional BayWork initiative to improve marketing and outreach. Furthermore, staff will present an update on the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) in August, which will outline upcoming projects eligible for the PSLA so that local trades can prepare to bid.