Alaskans looking for a job with transferable skills to Lower 48 can look no further than a career in water and wastewater treatment. The Alaska Job Corps offers free training that often takes around two years.


According to Greg Howard, the program is self-directed, so, it might take students less than that. Typically, he added, there’s a year of instruction in the classroom and then hands-on training. Howard said students will go out into the community and get tangible experience, all working towards a level-one license. Students can typically expect to make around $18- to $25 with entry level positions.


There are some requirements, however. Students are required to complete a drug screening test when they arrive at Alaska Job Corps and may be required to take a subsequent test. Howard mentioned a high school diploma is not required and there is a wait list.


To get on that wait list or learn more visit the Alaska Job Corps website. Additionally, you can visit the website for the Alaska Process Industry Careers Consortium.