• AWWA DSS62062
Provide PDF Format

Learn More

AWWA DSS62062

  • The Importance of Succession Planning and Knowledge Management for Distribution Systems
  • Conference Proceeding by American Water Works Association, 09/01/2005
  • Publisher: AWWA

$12.00$24.00


This paper discusses a study by the American Water Works Association Research Foundation (AwwaRF) and the WaterEnvironment Research Foundation (WERF) called "Succession Planningfor a Vital Workforce In the Information Age." The study includes an analysis ofworkforce demographics and a utility survey. Products developed and pilot tested duringthe study include a Workforce Planning Model, Knowledge Capture Methodology,Curriculum Development, Becoming an Employer of Choice. The reasons forthe study included:the coming generational change as Baby Boomers retire;the increasing average age of the workforce;the concern that utilities are becoming more technologically complex workplacesrequiring more skilled workers;concerns that the pool of competent replacement workers is becoming moreshallow; and,concerns that retirements will result in the loss of valuable knowledge.The study scope included:an assessment of both national and utility workforce demographics;identifying future shortfalls in critical and technical skills; and,providing guidance for creating a succession strategy. A key feature of the study included pilot demonstrations at various utilities thatincluded:Howard County, Maryland;Frederick County, Virginia, Sanitation Authority (FCSA);Washington Suburban, Maryland, Sanitary Commission (WSSC);Massachusetts Water Resource Authority; and,Louisville Water Company.In performing the study, the following methods were used:analyzed national workforce demographics;surveyed utilities for demographics and Human Resources approaches; developed Knowledge Management Toolkit;developed and successfully piloted Knowledge Capture;piloted water and wastewater operator training curriculum development; and,developed a Workforce Planning Model.

Related Products

AWWA DSS60330

AWWA DSS60330

Developing Nashville's Master Water Plan..

$12.00 $24.00

AWWA CONS51061

AWWA CONS51061

Rates, Water Budgets and Outdoor Water Use..

$12.00 $24.00

AWWA ACE99537

AWWA ACE99537

Leveraging Optimization Success Throughout a Utility..

$12.00 $24.00

AWWA ACE95175

AWWA ACE95175

FIELD LOK Gaskets, An Effective Ductile Iron Pressure Pipe Joint Restraining System..

$12.00 $24.00