BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., March 19, 2024—The Oakland County Water Resource Commissioner's office, Pure Oakland Water, Cranbrook Institute of Science: Freshwater Forum and the Oakland Schools’ Career Readiness program came together to host the educational event Blue Planet Jobs: Careers in Water yesterday. This exciting, fully booked event offered more than 240 students an immersive experience to explore the diverse career paths available in the water industry.

“Blue Planet Jobs opens the door for students to explore occupations they might never have discovered on their own, and it’s fantastic to see their enthusiasm,” said Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash. “It’s always a pleasure to work in collaboration with the Cranbrook Institute of Science and Oakland Schools, especially when it contributes to educating future generations about the water industry and the importance of environmental stewardship.”

Sophomore and junior students from Oakland County schools were invited to the Cranbrook Institute of Science, located at 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event featured an opportunity to learn about a potential career in the areas of engineering, environmental science, education, nonprofit, government, facility operations and trades. Schools in attendance were:

• Avondale High School
• Ernest W. Seaholm High School
• Madison High School
• Oakland Schools Technical Campus Northwest
• Oakland Schools Technical Campus Southwest
• Pontiac Academy for Excellence High School
• Pontiac High School
• Royal Oak High School
• University High School

“The Freshwater Forum is thrilled to host this event alongside Pure Oakland Water and Oakland Schools. We think it's incredibly important to expose students to various careers in freshwater, as these students are the future of the health and stewardship of this precious resource,” said the Cranbrook Institute of Science Head of the Freshwater Forum Lizz Parkinson.

The day’s schedule was full as students enjoyed four, 25-minute interactive presentations lead by water industry experts, direct engagement with professionals, and discussions led by college and trade organization representatives about the broad spectrum of career possibilities in the water sector. This unique event aimed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the water industry, including the roles of water professionals, career pathways, educational requirements, and technological advancements.

About the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office
The Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s office is dedicated to protecting public health and safety, preserving natural resources and a healthy environment, maintaining reliable, high-quality service, ensuring the value of investment and contributing to economic prosperity. We set goals that encourage efforts to meet or exceed local, state and federal water quality standards, environmental regulations and safety requirements within our control. To learn more about us, visit oakgov.com/water.

About Pure Oakland Water
Pure Oakland Water (POW) is a Michigan not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting Oakland County and regional water resources through public education, community organizing, environmental advocacy, and promotion of a sustainable future. POW strives to fulfill its mission through a host of educational, outreach and advocacy programs for students, residents, the business community, elected officials and other stakeholders across the region. To learn more, visit pureoaklandwater.org.

About Cranbrook Institute of Science
Cranbrook Institute of Science, Michigan’s Museum of Natural History, located in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. has been engaging learners of all ages and interests in educational programs and experiences since 1930. The Institute of Science seeks to draw science and education together through permanent exhibits, its traveling exhibit hall, interactive programs including exploreLAB, special events, field trips, and more than 20,000 artifacts on display. With more than 200,000 visitors each year, Cranbrook
Institute of Science continues to play a significant role in building a scientifically literate public in astronomy, physics, chemistry, and other sciences. For information about admission pricing, museum hours, and becoming a member call 248.645.3200 or visit science.cranbrook.edu.

Cranbrook Institute of Science is a part of Cranbrook Educational Community; a 501(c)3 non-profit whose National Historic Landmark campus also includes Cranbrook Academy of Art, Cranbrook Art Museum, Cranbrook Center for Collections and Research, Cranbrook House & Gardens, Cranbrook Schools, and other affiliated cultural and educational programs.

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