The Institute of Water and Energy & Utility Skills have launched a new strategic partnership to promote competence, skills and career development for the whole water industry, from trainee through to senior leadership.

The  industry leaders are collaborating to promote professional excellence  among the existing workforce and also give new entrants the best possible start in the water industry.

The partners will work proactively together to attract talent, promote professional excellence, build pride in the industry and ensure a sustainable and resilient workforce.

The collaboration puts into action key recommendations from the first-ever Workforce Renewal and Skills Strategy, published in February.

The Skills Strategy, for the water, gas, power and waste management industries, made the case clear for acting together now, to ensure a safe, competent and sustainable workforce.

Nick Ellins, Chief Executive of Energy & Utility Skills and twice a former President of the Institute of Water, said:

“This partnership aims to build sector resilience in the workforce, now and in the future. Improving our sector attraction and professional proficiency is incumbent on us all in water - policy makers, regulators, the regulated, delivery partners and the supply chain.

“The Institute of Water were one of the first to answer that call for active collaboration and I am delighted to have their guidance and expertise as the only professional body solely dedicated to the careers of water professionals. This new partnership will actively promote water careers and help to make excellence the standard. We extend a warm welcome to other key water industry bodies to partner with us.”

Lynn Cooper, Chief Executive of the Institute of Water, added:

“Career development is at the heart of everything the Institute of Water offers. Our vision is for the UK water sector to be served by the best people and we offer opportunities for all of our members to develop their careers through learning, recognition, networking and professional excellence.

“In launching this new partnership with Energy & Utility Skills, we will take forward our commitment to industry people, implement the shared workforce renewal & skills strategy and further increase the chances of achieving our vision.”

The partnership is the latest major development in the sector, following a series of initiatives to promote competence, health and safety within the water sector.