Indiana American Water hosts ribbon cutting ceremony and features Flow Forward program

Indiana American Water welcomed students, community leaders, and workforce partners to its Northwest Indiana Training Center in Gary on Tuesday, September 15, for a day focused on water careers, workforce development and the importance of providing safe, reliable water to local communities.

The event, held at 650 Madison St., featured the company’s Flow Forward program and included students from GEO 21st Century Academy. The day gave students an opportunity to learn directly from Indiana American Water employees while exploring the variety of careers involved in operating and maintaining a water system.

The morning began with student registration, a safety orientation, and introductions with Indiana American Water employees. Students also received a workbook, or “Water Career Passport,” before taking part in an icebreaker that highlighted what it takes to provide safe, reliable water.

Barry Suits, president of Indiana American Water, believes this event opens doors and a new perspective on careers and opportunities within the water industry.

“This event shows people what it takes out in the field, to get water from a water treatment plant, and source of supply out to the customers,” Suits said.

Following the student-focused portion of the morning, community members and partners joined the program for a training center showcase and announcement program.

Barry Suits, president of Indiana American Water, provided opening remarks, while local leaders including Ellis Dumas, chief of staff for the City of Gary, and Chuck Hughes, president and CEO of the Gary Chamber of Commerce, shared remarks with attendees.

The program also included recognition of community partners before students, guests, and Indiana American Water leaders gathered for a hydrant flush and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the training center.

“For our employees and students, they get to learn how to do what we do every day. It’s kind of a mini-city environment, so they get to learn in a safe, protected environment before they go out in the real world and perform those same tasks on the pavement, in the streets, or under pressure,” Suits said.

Attendees were introduced to demonstrations highlighting the hands-on work involved in the water industry. Public training presentations included a confined-space demonstration and a long-service bore shot using a boring machine and open excavation.

Discussions about trades, future workforce opportunities, and internships were also taking place throughout the day. Skill-building workshops, resume and interview preparation, and networking with industry professionals are all benefits of the Flow Forward program.

“This is our first year for the Flow Forward program. Our key thought is to continue to do it year in and year out, while listening to what the students’ experiences are. We want to make it better each year and continue to give them an opportunity to see what careers in the water and wastewater industry look like over time,” Suits said.

Not only is this ribbon-cutting ceremony a representation of the strides that Indiana American Water has taken, but also the Gary community as a whole.

“This is a prime example of Indiana American Water saying, ‘We’re going to do our share to invest in Gary,’” said Ellis Dumas, chief of staff for the City of Gary. “This ribbon cutting is just one of many that we’ve been planning and executing. We’re going to make sure that the next generation is capable of investing and being a part of this community. We believe that it’s a greater Gary; that’s our motion; that’s our momentum; that’s our belief.”

By the end of the day, the students had a clear idea of what they can expect in different careers through the Flow Forward program.

“It’s a lot of work,” said Lorielle Jackson, attending student from GEO 21st Century Academy. “This helps me explore the different careers, projects, and some of the construction work that you have to be real smart and precise with.”

For more information on Indiana American Water, you can visit amwater.com/inaw.