16,900
Expected increase in water company workers between 2025-2030
15,000
Likely increase in jobs for water companies’ supply chains between 2025-2030
5,000
Apprentices to be employed between 2025-2030
A big boost to jobs and the economy
The water sector is a priority area for economic growth, so it’s time to level-up our infrastructure. The sector has been under-invested for too long, but now we have the green light to deliver a big impact. We’re committing £100 billion of investment over five years — that’s £50 million every single day — to rebuild and reinforce the network. And we’re not stopping there. We're also building the water workforce of the future, with a plan to recruit and train 30,000 people across the country to deliver this transformation.
Water 101: the people
From combatting pollution to safeguarding our infrastructure, the people that make up the UK's water industry are committed to making it work for everyone.
The people making it happen
Emmanuel
Emmanuel completed studying at Cranfield University, then applied to Severn Trent's 10,000 Black interns programme and secured his internship at the company.
"The scheme offered me the opportunity to get my foot in the door while building future skills. I’ve had the opportunity to be part of key projects that align with the company’s environmental commitments, and then I secured a twelve month internship and in the waste side of the business. I’m excited to be joining the Graduate Programme, and I can’t wait to continue my career”
Tom, Ellie and Rosie
The conservation team at Wessex water deliver conservation land management and advise the company about improving sites for wildlife. They survey and monitor habitats and species of conservation importance, working with colleagues and communities to improve them on land owned by the water company.
They also manage sites of geological and historic value, ensuring these important features are saved for the future, while the land continues to deliver the vital water services required of it.
Isabelle
Isabelle joined Northumbrian Water in 2024 and was named Graduate of the Year in 2025. Coming from a military family, she grew up moving frequently and was the first in her family to attend university. Initially awarded an army scholarship at 17, she was set to join the military in 2023 but chose a different path, completing a master’s degree and pursuing a career in utilities.
She was drawn to the water sector because of its shared values with the military such as discipline, service, and resilience. These also align closely with Northumbrian Water's culture and its Joining Forces with Water initiative.
