Water distribution operators have a crucial role in ensuring communities have access to safe drinking water. If you are interested in a career in this field, you must be ready for the tasks and challenges ahead. You are probably thinking that all you need to do is focus on gaining practical experience and developing a couple of skills, but that won’t be enough.
So, then, what should you do to succeed in your career? We’ve compiled a list of the tips we know will work great in this regard.
1. Keep Learning and Exercising What You Learn
There are various forms of learning you can use to equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, and best practices for water distribution operators. It’s always good practice to take a formal water distribution certification from a reputable course provider like RocketCert, after which you can leverage on-the-job training to gain new skills. In addition to helping you acquire invaluable information about water treatment and distribution operations, a formal course will also go a long way towards helping you prepare for your licensing exams.
Remember, you aren’t limited in terms of how much you can learn as long as you meet your pre-licensing and licence renewal educational requirements. So, consider continuing your education in the forms available to you, as this can help you enhance your career prospects.
2. Know Your Skill Sets and Interests
Just because you are joining this industry as a water distributor operator doesn’t mean this is the field you should be in throughout your career. It’s always a good idea to explore the other ways you can be part of the water industry, to see if there’s one that captures your imagination.
If, for instance, you think becoming a water engineer is a better career path, you can continue your role as a water distribution operator as you set the right foundation for your targeted role. Just make sure to go for a career path you are fully interested in, as opposed to hinging solely on factors like salaries or benefits.
3. Starting at the “Ground Up” Is a Good Idea
Does it feel like a long way up the ladder? Well, would you trust us if we told you that you can actually enjoy it if you focus more on the process and not just the result? So, don’t be afraid of volunteering or starting as an intern. Maybe even start by taking a plant tour. What some people will consider as “basic” or “labourer” jobs may be just what you need to build the right relationships to mentor you as you grow in your career.
4. Exercise Patience and Work Hard
One of the hard truths you must put up with is that promotions and career growth are a gradual process. So, don’t be so impatient if you are starting as an intern or as a water distributor operator, whereas your dream is to be a water engineer. Give it time. While at it, keep working hard, and we can assure you someone will notice your work at one point.
Remember, it will take some time, but one thing you can be sure of is that by working hard, you will get where you’re targeting, and the wait will be very much worth it! So, have a positive mind and take every challenge as an opportunity to learn. This is the experience that will speak for you when the time for promotions and other forms of recognition comes.
Ready to Start?
Your success as a water distribution operator is highly dependent on how much interest and dedication you have. So, set your goals and work tirelessly towards them. It may be a bit challenging and even intimidating as you start, but these are the times that will build your stamina and experience.
So, head over to rocketcert.com to start your journey and ensure that you go for what you want!