The onsite wastewater sector is full of experienced professionals, meaningful work, and real opportunities to make a difference. Yet like many essential industries, it needs fresh voices and new talent to help shape what comes next.

Young professionals have an important role to play in the future of onsite wastewater. They bring energy, creativity, curiosity, and comfort with new technology—qualities that help organizations adapt, innovate, and stay connected to emerging trends.

One challenge is that many students and early career professionals simply do not know the onsite wastewater field exists. Many programs often emphasize centralized systems, while decentralized treatment receives little attention. As a result, many talented people make career decisions without ever seeing the range of career paths, leadership opportunities, and community impact available in this sector.

In 2026, a group of MSO members formed the Emerging Professionals Committee to change that—to connect young professionals with the onsite wastewater industry and invite them into a field where their ideas, skills, and leadership are needed.

The Emerging Professionals Committee is committed to building a stronger workforce by supporting recruitment, advocacy, and professional growth for young and early career professionals in the onsite wastewater treatment sector.

Our goal is to help young professionals see a future for themselves in this industry. This Committee hopes to grow as entrepreneurs, leaders, and technical experts.  Emerging professionals can build rewarding careers while contributing to public health, environmental protection, and resilient communities. The Committee also works to bring the needs, ideas, and perspectives of emerging professionals to MSO leadership so that this next generation of members is heard, supported, and empowered to lead.