Environmental Sustainability

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
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The Environmental Sustainability program prepares students with laboratory and technical knowledge for entry-level water services positions. Students use the engineering process to understand and solve complex problems pertaining to the water cycle, water and wastewater treatment. Applied mathematics, chemistry and microbiology concepts are embedded throughout the program.

Industry certified instructors will guide students through out the course. Accommodations and modifications are provided to high school students based on the IEP/504. In addition, training for the job-seeking process is offered through mock interviews, resume building and industry guest speakers sharing their knowledge.

Upon completion of the one-year program, successful candidates will be prepared to seek the required certifications like the ADEQ Water Treatment Operator Level 1 and the ADEQ Wastewater Treatment Operator Level 1. Moreover, West-MEC offers many industry credential tests at no additional cost and if the student has to pay for a test, they will be reimbursed. Through the Environmental Sustainability program and Water Treatment certificates, students are provided a pathway to economic independence.

CAREER PATHWAYS
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Careers that a student could pursue after receiving their certification(s) are: Water treatment operator, wastewater treatment operator.

Operators are critical to public health and their work environment is usually a treatment plant.

Environmental Sustainability entry-level salary: $22.19 per hour**

*with additional education in this pathway | **Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment & Wages