What started as an innovative idea to address the growing workforce needs in the water industry has now become a reality that is changing lives and building futures. Through the partnership between Inframark and Katy ISD’s Raines Academy, students the Katy ISD Water Operator Licensing Program at Katy Independent School District are graduating with real-world skills, industry training, and a direct pathway into meaningful careers that protect one of the most vital resources, clean water. The students are the first graduates of the program.

Fifteen students earned full-time employment offer letters, and three students will be summer interns before attending college in the fall.

Richard Steadman, Roel “Roy” Garcia, Quan Alfred, and Bruce Dubiel served as instructors.

“This program is more than a class -- it is a model for the future of workforce development,” said Wendy Duncan of Inframark in an email to the Katy Times. “It gives students the opportunity to graduate with certifications, hands-on experience, and the ability to step directly into high-demand careers that serve communities across Texas.”

According to previous reporting in the Katy Times, entry-level professionals can expect to earn around $43,600 annually. Employees can advance rapidly with further certifications to earnings of up to $66,000 within five years and executive positions as their career progresses. Inframark, alongside other companies in the water industry, offers employee benefits, including paid overtime, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid vacation and competitive health insurance.