Trappe council approves MD Rural Water apprenticeship to train local water and wastewater operators

The Trappe Town Council voted March 4 to join the Maryland Rural Water Association apprenticeship program, approving participation in both the water and wastewater tracks to help train local water-operator staff.

Patty Shreves, representing the Maryland Rural Water Association, described the program as a two-year, on-the-job training pathway that culminates in a water-operator license. Shreves told the council the association has grant funding available to pay required coursework and some supplemental services. The program offers separate water and wastewater tracks, which cannot be completed simultaneously by the same apprentice, the presentation stated.

After the presentation President Newnam moved that the town enter the MD Rural Water Association apprenticeship program for both water and wastewater tracks; Commissioner Chase seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Council members did not record conditions attached to the approval in the meeting minutes; staff will execute enrollment and related agreements.

Town officials said the apprenticeship is meant to build local capacity for licensed operators, a recurring staffing need for small municipal utilities. The council did not set a timetable for candidate selection or identify initial funding beyond the apprenticeship grant support noted by Shreves.

Council next steps listed in the meeting record include finalizing any administrative agreements with the association and returning to the council if additional town funding or contract terms are required.