University Hawai‘i Maui College students at the Māʻalaea Wastewater Treatment Plant. Courtesy photo

With state legislation mandating that tens of thousands of cesspools need to be removed and replaced by 2050, Hawaiʻi Community College and UH Maui College have a new onsite wastewater treatment systems specialist certificate.

According to the college, cesspools leach more than 53 million gallons of untreated wastewater into the environment each day, posing risks to human, marine and environmental health.

Currently, statewide, approximately two to four cesspools are replaced each week. However, in order to meet the 2050 deadlines, about 50 need to be replaced every week.

The coursework encompasses wastewater, construction and design, and sustainability. Classes include experiential learning and an internship, which allows for students to get hands-on experience and explore what sector of the industry interests them the most.

The certificate launched at UHMC in the fall, and the pilot cohort will complete their certificates this summer.

The certificate is supported by the National Science Foundation ATE Workforce for Water grant, and students receive a $500 stipend upon completion.

Financial aid and tuition assistance are also available and can cover up to 100% of tuition costs. If interested, email Charlotte Cheek, project manager, at cheekc@hawaii.edu.