Woodland Community College

Woodland Community College (WCC) is a California public community college serving nearly 7,000 students across three campuses. Its service area spans three counties, with a main campus in Woodland, California, and two additional campuses in Lake and Colusa counties. WCC’s mission and values center around students, equity, and community, and the course and program offerings at all three campuses provide opportunities for degrees, transfer, certificates, and community building.

During my visit, I was graciously hosted by Woodland Community College’s new President, Dr. Lizette Navarette, and the Yuba Community College District Chancellor, Dr. Shouan Pan. We toured the main campus, including the brand-new performing arts and culinary center, and had some fun behind the microphone in the college’s eLearning Studio that has aided the college’s transition to online learning. The eLearning Studio is a state-of-the-art center open to faculty and students to help build podcasts, educational curriculum, and campus-wide messaging.

One of the more unique programs at WCC is the newly created Environmental Technology – Drinking Water and Wastewater Technology Program at the Lake County Campus. The college offers a certificate and associate of science degree designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for a career in environmental management. Both the certificate and degree help prepare individuals to take and pass the water and/or wastewater treatment exam given by the California Department of Public Health. Students completing a certificate can become water and wastewater operators, which is the first step for working in the water/wastewater utility industry. Those who complete the associate degree are prepared to become supervisors and managers at water districts and water treatment operating companies.

President Navarette was pleased to share some key features of the program:

Comprehensive Curriculum. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering the principles, regulations, and technologies related to drinking water and wastewater management. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with industry standards and advancements, ensuring students acquire cutting-edge knowledge and skills.
Industry-Relevant Skills. The program emphasizes skills that are directly applicable to the environmental technology industry, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. Students benefit from practical experience with the latest technologies used in the field.
Expert Faculty. The Lake County Campus of Woodland Community College fosters a collaborative learning environment where students engage with experienced faculty and industry professionals. Faculty members John Hamner and Kurt Jensen bring a wealth of industry experience and expertise in environmental science and technology.
Career Opportunities. Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in water treatment plants, wastewater treatment facilities, environmental consulting firms, and regulatory agencies. Successful completion of the program leads to industry-recognized certifications. Graduates often find employment opportunities quickly, thanks to the recognized value of their certificates in the job market.
Strong Community Connections. The program has established strong connections with local water and wastewater treatment facilities, providing students with valuable networking opportunities. Many of the program alumni have gone on to achieve notable success in their careers, holding key positions in water and wastewater management agencies.

Program employer partners include Clearlake Oaks Water District, Lake County Special Districts, Callayomi County Water District, Highlands Water District, Lower Lake County Waterworks District, and Upper Lake County Water District. Providing a direct connection to local employers has helped to make this program successful and is opening doors for students in the community where they live and go to school.

The program attracts many post-traditional students; over half of the students enrolled in the program are over the age of 30 and from diverse backgrounds. Student have expressed appreciation for their experience with the program and the opportunities it provides.

“Participating in the Drinking Water and Wastewater Technology program has been an awesome learning experience. Each course prepares one to take a state board test to become certified in each category. Once one becomes board certified it opens doors of opportunity to make a living wage to support oneself and/or family with many opportunities for advancement.”

– Natasha Cornett, Student at Lake County Campus of Woodland Community College

The Certificates in Environmental Technology at the Lake County Campus have proven to be a resounding success, providing students with a solid foundation, industry recognition, and the practical skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of environmental technology.