The research report We Are Water – Ko Wai Tātou was released today and examines talent shortages in the water services sector, recommending solutions to ensure safe drinking water and improved environmental standards are met.
Just like with the Re-Energise – Ngā Mahi a Māui workforce development strategy report for the Electricity Supply Industry, published earlier in the year, Connexis was instrumental in getting this research off the ground.
Connexis worked in partnership with Water New Zealand, the Department of Internal Affairs, Taumata Arowai and other industry leaders to progress it. It was then handed over to the Waihanga Ara Rau Construction and Infrastructure Workforce Development Council last year.
Water New Zealand estimates the three water sectors of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater need an additional 6000 to 9000 skilled workers over the next 30 years.
The report details strategies for attracting, training and retaining a workforce that is “all but invisible to outsiders”.
Connexis Director Kaarin Gaukrodger says the review has “underlined opportunities for collaboration within the water services sector to raise the profile of Three Waters career pathways and remove barriers to entry for the next generation of workers.”
The report identifies four strategic goals:
- Respect Māori interests and knowledge
- Create intuitive career pathways
- Design of career progression
- Design for success
There will be two webinars on the report:
- The first is on Monday, March 28 from 3-4pm. Register for it here.
- The second is on Wednesday, April 6 from 3-4pm. Register for it here.
Read the full report here: https://wearewater.nz/
