Program “Gave me an edge,” says Water Quality grad

Moraine Park Water Quality male grad

Water Quality Technology is a satisfying career where you can help provide safe water to consumers, prevent disease, help protect the environment and maintain recreational waters for fishing and  . . . well, much more!

Many job openings in this field are also projected over the next several years as graduates replace positions of retirees and facilities continue to expand.

And Moraine Park can help prepare you for these opportunities in a flexible, affordable environment. Don’t just take our word for it, though! Check out this story from one of our grads:

My name is Nick Nyhouse.

I grew up and graduated West Bend West High School in 2007.  Currently, I live in Kewaskum with my wife and daughter and have another baby on the way.  We have two dogs and enjoy camping, spending time exploring new things throughout the state and keeping busy with house projects.

I chose a career in Water Quality Technology because I always enjoyed science throughout school, enjoyed working outdoors, and realized that drinking water will become more scarce in the future.

I attended Moraine Park from 2008-2010, and my favorite thing about the College was the affordable tuition rates, the flexibility they offer with online/in-person courses, and being close to home. The courses and internship prepared me for a job in my field and I feel it gave me an edge when applying for jobs.

Speaking of internships, I did my internship with Waupun Utilities, then worked with Horicon Utilities for about two years and now have been with the West Bend Water Utility for about six years. I started at West Bend as an Operations Specialist and got a promotion to Facilities Coordinator a little over a year ago.  I enjoy my career field and how there is something different everyday and always new challenges to overcome.

Sometimes the answer isn’t obvious but it is rewarding when you can troubleshoot and figure it out.

As far as advice for others considering this field, that would be to take as many tours and interview as many people as you can.  Every utility and plant is run differently and the best way is to learn from the people who work in them daily.  Taking the Moraine Park program and Wisconsin DNR certifications will help you get a vast knowledge of all the different aspects of the field that you can apply to your job.

Discover More …

Want to learn more, visit morainepark.edu/programs for details!

Better yet, mark your calendars, because we have a great in-person opportunity coming up to learn more about our program!

Discover Moraine Park will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the West Bend campus, Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the
Fond du Lac campus and Thursday, Feb. 9, at the Beaver Dam campus.  Stop in anytime between 4 to 6 p.m.

Representatives will be on hand to explain program details, completion of admissions requirements, financial aid, scholarships, and more. Program instructors and staff also will be available to answer your questions. Attendees will receive a $30 application fee waiver, valid towards an associate of applied science degree and/or technical diploma (30+ credits). Photo ID is required.

For more information about the event or to register, visit morainepark.edu/discover. Registration for the event is not necessary but is appreciated.

Written by Mark Schmidt
Mark Schmidt is the Water Quality Technology Instructor at Moraine Park Technical College in Fond du Lac, WI. Mark has 40 years of experience in water and wastewater facility and systems operations, maintenance and management. Prior to teaching, his specialty was surface water treatment plant optimization. He now enjoys teaching the next generation of water quality professionals, and those in the field desiring knowledge and advancement opportunities. Feel free to contact Mark about the program at mschmidt15@morainepark.edu, or check out the program at https://www.morainepark.edu/programs-and-courses/programs-of-study/?ProgramTitle=Water+Quality+Technology.