JVS and BAYWORK program alum Victor completed training in the water and wastewater industry and landed a job with East Bay MUD.

BAYWORK is a regional consortium of 44 public water and wastewater utilities that work together to ensure essential services remain strong by developing a skilled and diverse workforce throughout Northern California. Established in 2009 and in partnership with JVS since 2015, BAYWORK focuses on outreach, training, and career pathways that prepare people for high-demand jobs that keep water systems safe and reliable.

In 2025, BAYWORK and JVS partnered to help more residents enter these stable and well-paid roles. Together we offered hands-on workshops, operator certification preparation, mentorships, and internships that create clear routes to good jobs and long-term economic mobility.

At our 2025 Envision event, Diego shared how JVS training and a BAYWORK internship transformed his future. After completing a JVS career pathway program, he joined a BAYWORK internship where he gained the skills and confidence to thrive as part of a utility operations team at East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD). His story highlights how access to hands-on training, industry partnerships like BAYWORK, and a supportive community helped him build confidence and a future in the trades.

“I’m not just earning a paycheck,” Diego shared. “I’m building a future and keeping our community’s water safe.”

BAYWORK’s partnership with JVS shows how collective investment in workforce reliability strengthens public infrastructure and creates opportunity for workers across the Bay Area.

In 2025, BAYWORK and JVS supported 344 learners from 44 utility agencies, delivering 1,100+ hours of training through webinars, workshops, and apprenticeships.

This story first appeared in our 2025 Impact Report. Go to impact2025.jvs.org to read the full report and learn more about our partnerships.