Norris water employee enrolled in apprenticeship program
Officials with the Norris Water Commission have announced that employee Xan Ridenour has been enrolled in a statewide apprenticeship program administered by the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts.
Ridenour, a Norris employee since August 2023, will pursue his wastewater treatment certification, collection II certification, and cross-connection certification as a participant in the program. All the certifications are requirements of the program.
Norris Water Commission Superintendent Tony Wilkerson played a crucial role in establishing the employer agreement with the association to initiate a registered apprenticeship program at the wastewater facility in Norris, and encouraged Ridenour to be the first enrollee from Norris.
“The Norris Water Commission is committed to providing high-quality training to all of our staff members, and Xan’s participation in the apprenticeship program is another example of that commitment,” said Wilkerson. “Xan is a hard worker, and his participation in the program will benefit him as well as the citizens in the community we serve.”
The apprenticeship program is a federally registered Department of Labor and Workforce Development program, and is part of a national apprenticeship program initiative that is overseen by the National Rural Water Association.
“We’re excited to announce the new employer agreement with the Norris Water Commission and Xan’s enrollment in the apprenticeship program,” said Kevin Byrd, the state associationm’s workforce development coordinator.
“Xan’s participation will help him in his career advancement ,and also make him an even more-valuable asset to Norris.”