Beginning in 2023, JVS expanded its impact through a strategic collaboration with the California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA). This partnership builds on JVS’s successful model with Baywork and IEWorks, extending our reach to address workforce development needs in both water and power utilities across California. The initiative, led by CMUA, brings together key organizations including JVS, Baywork, IEWorks, Water Education for Latino Leaders, New Ways to Work, and the California African American Water Education Foundation.
The collaboration aims to enhance workforce reliability and diversity in the utility sector by focusing on two primary objectives: attracting talented individuals from underrepresented communities to the industry and providing professional development for existing workers. This approach not only addresses workforce needs but also leverages the rich diversity of California’s population to strengthen the utility sector.
JVS serves in an advisory capacity, sharing expertise, best practices, and lessons learned from our extensive experience. We also act as an intermediary between Baywork, IEWorks, other water industry groups, labor partners, community colleges, and funders, facilitating knowledge exchange and fostering collaboration across the sector. Our role helps ensure that the initiative taps into the wealth of skills, perspectives, and potential within California’s diverse communities.
This 3-year project, funded by the High Road Training Partnership (HRTP), is currently in its second year. To date, significant progress has been made in replicating the Baywork model in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Additionally, the initiative has launched statewide virtual professional development programs for current utility workers, focusing on upskilling to meet evolving industry demands and creating pathways for career advancement.
By addressing the unique workforce challenges in California’s water and power sectors, this collaboration demonstrates a strong commitment to innovative workforce solutions, and our ability to scale impact through strategic partnerships that harness the strength of California’s diverse talent pool.
“JVS has proven to be an important partner in our efforts to diversify and strengthen California’s water and power sectors. Their workforce expertise, combined with our industry knowledge, is driving measurable impact statewide.”
– Danielle Blacet, Deputy Executive Director, California Municipal Utilities Association
Our CMUA partnership story first appeared in our 2024 Impact Report. Go to impact2024.jvs.org to read the report and learn more about our work.
