With the shortfall in the water industry workforce predicted to exceed 60,000 within the next seven years and with 35% of skilled roles proving difficult to fill, there has never been a more crucial time to invest in the future of the sector. As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we speak to apprentices across the organisation and look at how apprenticeships can support young entrants to the industry.
The water industry has been facing a personnel challenge for several years, with an ageing workforce not being replaced at the rate they retire – just 8% of those in the industry are under 24 years. As well as the number of qualified engineers and technicians falling overall, the increasing specialisation of those already in the industry is leaving a shortfall in some engineering specialisms and particularly in developing areas such as digital systems automation and smart technologies. This evolution has created new challenges:
- Critical skills gaps in digital operations and cybersecurity
- Need for expertise in smart infrastructure maintenance
- Growing demand for environmental technology specialists
- Requirement for data analytics capabilities
Our apprenticeship schemes are designed to address these challenges and develop a well-qualified group of new entrants across diverse engineering disciplines. By offering responsibility on real projects and the opportunity for personalised development, the scheme advertises the tangible value and benefits available in a water industry career.
Current pathways include:
- Maintenance and Operations Engineering
- Laboratory Science
- Electronic and Electromechanical Engineering
- Digital Systems Management
- Environmental Compliance
Our programmes now incorporate:
- Hybrid learning combining virtual and hands-on training
- Real-world project experience
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Focus on sustainable practices
The recognition of these opportunities is helping to encourage more aspiring utilities professionals towards starting their career with an apprenticeship – as is the flexibility of study modes open to those enrolled on the schemes. While some apprentices combine their placement with college-based study, others complete the programme as part of a year in industry or whilst working part-time towards a degree. By the end of the scheme, participants have gained knowledge and experience as well as a clearer sense of where their interests might lead, and many go on to build successful careers with Veolia.
Success Stories
Zachary Rowbotham completed an apprenticeship as a Service Engineer at VWT UK. Discussing his motivations and his experience so far, he explained: “VWT UK is a well-established water treatment company on an international scale, and with that comes a sense of pride in working for them. My week starts with college on a Monday. At college, I am completing a ‘MOET’ (Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician) course, and for the rest of the week I work on site assisting another VWT UK engineer. Every day is different when working on-site. I’m enjoying meeting new customers and working on various types of equipment.”
Sarah Sutcliffe, who is enrolled as an apprentice Maintenance Engineer at VWT UK, said: “The most enjoyable part of my apprenticeship has been meeting all the people whom I work with – they’ve helped me develop my communication and teamworking skills as well as my technical knowledge.”
The Value of Apprenticeships
Investing in apprenticeships delivers far-reaching benefits that extend well beyond simple recruitment. Organisations that embrace apprenticeship programmes gain the ability to develop talent specifically aligned with their operational needs, while facilitating crucial knowledge transfer from experienced staff to the next generation. These young professionals bring fresh perspectives on technological innovation, often acting as catalysts for digital transformation within traditional operations. Through structured apprenticeship programmes, organisations can systematically build capabilities in emerging technologies, ensuring they stay competitive in an increasingly digital water sector.
Shaping the Future-Ready Workforce
Looking toward 2030 and beyond, future-proofing the industry requires a strategic focus on key competency areas. Digital transformation skills now sit at the heart of modern water operations, from AI-driven monitoring systems to advanced data analytics. Environmental sustainability expertise has become non-negotiable as water utilities face increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint and optimise resource usage. Smart infrastructure management capabilities enable organisations to maintain and upgrade aging assets while implementing new technologies. Perhaps most critically, climate resilience skills are essential as water utilities adapt to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and environmental challenges. These combined competencies form the foundation of a robust, future-ready workforce.
The water industry's future depends on our commitment to developing tomorrow's talent. While we celebrate our apprentices' achievements, we must also expand our training programs across all disciplines. By creating engaging, forward-thinking apprenticeship schemes that showcase modern water operations, we can attract ambitious young professionals to this vital sector. For businesses looking to secure their future workforce and drive innovation, there has never been a better time to invest in apprenticeships.
Click here to find out more about Veolia Water Technologies UK’s apprenticeships.
Take a look at what positions we are currently hiring for, here.
Author | Anna D'Eath
Senior Human Resources Business Partner at Veolia Water Technologies UK
