SARNIA, August 18, 2026 - Lambton College and Indspire have announced an important new partnership that will enhance access to water and wastewater treatment training for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students preparing for careers in one of Ontario's most essential workforce sectors.
Through the collaboration, eligible Indigenous students can receive coordinated financial, housing, and student success supports while enrolled in Lambton College's Environmental Technician - Water Treatment Operations program. The program prepares students for careers in water treatment, wastewater operations, and environmental services, with skills required across municipal systems, Indigenous communities, mining, oil and gas, public service, utilities, environmental consulting, and private industry.
Water and wastewater professionals play a critical role in protecting public health, supporting environmental sustainability, and maintaining the infrastructure communities and industries rely on every day. As Ontario continues to experience demand for qualified operators and technically trained professionals, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding Indigenous access to specialized education and meaningful careers in the water sector.
"Indspire is pleased to launch this new education-to-careers initiative in partnership with Lambton College" said Jocelyn Formsma, Indspire President and CEO. "This first-of-its-kind opportunity brings together specialized training and Indigenous learners to help meet the urgent need for water and wastewater skills and talent within Indigenous communities. We are grateful to Lambton for embarking on this journey with us, and we look forward to welcoming the first cohort.”
Indspire is an Indigenous national charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people for the long-term benefit of these individuals, their families and communities, and Canada. The partnership with Lambton College is designed to support Indigenous students throughout their academic journey, from recruitment and enrolment through graduation and transition into the workforce. The partnership brings together educational funding, housing assistance, and student success services in a coordinated model.
Eligible Indigenous students will receive assistance with tuition, books, equipment, and other educational expenses, and some housing, transportation, and related costs. Students will also have access to academic advising, Indigenous student services, wellness resources, and career development opportunities throughout their studies.
"Ontario's future depends on the skilled professionals who protect and manage our water infrastructure. Through this partnership with Indspire, Indigenous students will have access to the financial support, housing assistance, and student success resources needed to pursue careers in a sector that is essential to public health, environmental stewardship, and economic prosperity," said Dr. Dave Machacek, Senior Vice President, Academic, Research and Student Success, Lambton College. "Together, we are creating pathways into meaningful careers while helping meet Ontario's growing demand for water and wastewater professionals."
The initiative will support eligible students entering the Environmental Technician - Water Treatment Operations program beginning in Fall 2026. Lambton College and Indspire are also working to raise awareness of the opportunity among prospective students for future intakes, with significant recruitment efforts planned for Fall 2027 and beyond.
Lambton College's Environmental Technician - Water Treatment Operations program is a two-year Ontario College Diploma program that combines technical training with hands-on learning and co-operative education opportunities to prepare graduates for careers in water treatment, wastewater operations, and environmental services.
More information about the partnership, eligibility requirements, and available support can be found on the Lambton College website.