Water is at the heart of our daily lives, a precious resource that we must not only protect, but also understand. The water industry offers a wealth of exciting career opportunities for young people who want to make a real difference to the environment and their communities. C.I.EAU is committed to raising young people’s awareness of this vital resource and encouraging them to consider a career in the water professions.
The Prix de la Relève: Inspiring recognition
Each year, the C.I.EAU showcases passionate young people through the Prix de la Relève. For the 2024 edition, on the eve of World Water Day, the prize was awarded to Ms. Soureyatou Hamidou, a doctoral student at Université Laval and member of CentrEau. Her research project on the elimination of phosphorus from wastewater is a concrete example of how young people can contribute to sustainable solutions.
This award is made possible by prestigious partners such as the Fondation de Gaspé Beaubien, Réseau Environnement and CentrEau. Ms. Hamidou won :
- A $2,000 bursary;
- Admission to the Salon des technologies environnementales du Québec;
- A publication in Vecteur Environnement magazine;
- A media representation of the C.I.EAU.
This recognition is a reminder of the importance of encouraging the next generation in this crucial field.
Water professions: varied and rewarding opportunities
Careers in the water industry cover a wide range of scientific and technical fields. Here are a few examples of professions that contribute to the management and preservation of this resource:
1. Biologists and chemists
These professionals play an essential role in the analysis and assessment of water quality. They take part in environmental studies, often as part of BAPE(Bureau d’audiences publiques en environnement) projects, to assess the impact of human activities on water and ecosystems. To become a biologist or chemist, you need a university degree in science(Baccalauréat en Sciences).
2. Water treatment plant operators
Operators ensure the smooth running of drinking water and wastewater treatment plants. To enter this profession, you can take a DEP in water treatment at the Centre de formation professionnelle Paul-Gérin-Lajoie.
▶ Find out more: Water treatment training
3. Water purification technicians
Technicians monitor water quality and ensure that wastewater systems comply with environmental standards. To practise this profession, you need a DEC in water technology, a course offered at Cégep de Saint-Laurent.
▶ Learn more: Water technology – Cégep Saint-Laurent
Why choose a career in the water industry?
Water-related professions offer rewarding and meaningful careers. By choosing this field, you will contribute to :
- Protecting a resource essential to life;
- Develop concrete solutions to climate change;
- Improving the quality of life in communities.
Whether you’re passionate about science, technology or the environment, there’s a water profession to suit your interests.
A promising future for young people
C.I.EAU firmly believes that raising awareness from an early age is essential to inspire students to choose water-related careers. By promoting training, research and innovation, we can build a sustainable future in which water remains accessible and of high quality.
Ready to learn more and consider a career in this exciting field? Explore the training available and get inspired by professionals who are making a difference.
→ Together, let’s ensure the preservation of our JOY’eau for future generations!
▶ See details of the Prix de la Relève and careers here : Prix de la Relève C.I.EAU
Contribute to the JOY’eau campaign
So that C.I.EAU can continue to inspire and educate young people about water-related professions, your support is essential. Make a donation to the JOY’eau campaign and help us protect this priceless resource for future generations.
▶ Donate here : JOY’eau campaign
