Congressman Mrvan tours new Indiana American Water training facility in Gary

U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland, toured the new American Water Training Facility that's been under construction in Gary.

The water utility that serves communities across Northwest Indiana has invested $1.8 million in the new training facility that will train its operators, improve workforce readiness and prepare the next generation of utility workers.

"Indiana American Water is proud to invest in a facility that directly supports the people who keep safe, reliable water service flowing for communities across Northwest Indiana," said Barry Suits, president of Indiana American Water. "This training center gives our employees the opportunity to build skills in a practical, hands-on environment while strengthening safety, operational excellence and career development. As our industry prepares for future workforce needs, this facility will help develop the next generation of licensed operators and skilled field professionals who will serve Hoosier communities for years to come.

Greenwood-based Indiana American plans to open this training facility in the fall. It is a mini city where workers can practice real-world field scenarios in a controlled environment before doing the same work out in the community.

"Thank you to all of the leaders of Indiana American Water for their commitment to workforce development, infrastructure reliability, and preparing the next generation of workers to support the essential services our communities depend on every day," Mrvan said. "I am grateful for the opportunity to visit with the workforce and see this important investment in a new training facility that will help ensure more young people and current workers have access to beneficial training and successful career pathways."

The training facility will be used by Indiana American Water employees across the state, including 100 workers represented by the United Steelworkers union in Northwest Indiana.

Workers will receive instruction on production, construction and field services. They will also learn a variety of skills, including excavation, shoring, utility line locating, traffic control, water main tapping, service line work, confined space procedures, meter installation, hydrant repair and water main repair.

"Water service is essential to public health, economic development and quality of life," Suits said. "By investing in workforce development today, we are helping ensure that communities across Northwest Indiana continue to receive high-quality service from trained, dedicated professionals tomorrow."