Water Works Career Exploration Program
Dive into a new opportunity!
Our first Water Works 2025 cohort takes place from Saturday, September 6 to Saturday, November 22 at the Lake View YMCA and South Side YMCA. The Lake View Y session takes place from Tuesday to Friday, from 4 to 7 p.m., and every other Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The South Side Y session takes place from Monday to Thursday, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., and every other Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This program will provide varied levels of swim instruction, certification, and career development programming focused on water-related careers — all at no cost.
Apply Now
Ready to dive in? Career-seekers ages 16 to 24 are encouraged to apply now to determine eligibility. Use our application form to let us know that you’re interested in being part of our 2025-26 Water Works career exploration program!
Earn While You Learn!
Don't know how to swim? No problem. Our expert instructors are ready to help participants acquire the skills needed for industry-recognized lifeguarding certifications and beyond. In addition to all your costs for certifications and equipment being included, you will also earn a paid stipend!
Make a splash in your community and email [email protected] if you have any questions!
No swimsuit? We’ve got you covered!
The YMCA is happy to cover costs for certifications, such as the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor certification, for participants of our Water Works program! In addition to certifications, the following equipment will be available at no cost: swimsuits, swim shorts, googles, quick dry towels, swim caps, swim bags, and course materials such as lifeguard manuals and CPR and first aid supplies. Additional supportive services for transportation will be available based on eligibility and availability.
Check out some images from our inaugural 2024-2025 cohorts! Participants were able to earn lifeguard and swim instructor certifications, which position them for high demand roles in aquatics and recreation, particularly within the YMCA network. Field trips offered real life insight into water-related careers, igniting new aspirations and showing youth the vast potential of careers that, while often overlooked, are both meaningful and lucrative.
