Founded in 1983-1984 by four First Nations plant operators in London, Ontario, AWWAO was created as a resource center for technical information. Our goal has always been to equip operators with the knowledge and training necessary to maintain high standards in water and wastewater services.
Since securing funding from Health Canada in 1995, later supplemented by Indigenous Services Canada, AWWAO has expanded its reach and services. By 1997-1998, Health Canada Ontario Region began directly supporting AWWAO, allowing us to enhance operator certification and professionalism through conferences, newsletters, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
In 2011, AWWAO became a non-profit incorporated legal entity, enabling us to form agreements with federal and provincial governments while engaging private sponsors. This milestone aligned us with other professional associations, such as the Ontario Water Works Association and the American Water Works Association.
Through strong partnerships, AWWAO provides First Nations operators with vital training, certification programs, and networking opportunities. Keewaytinook Okimakanak (KO), also known as the Northern Chiefs Council, has been providing administrative services since 2013, further strengthening our ability to serve First Nations communities effectively.
AWWAO remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting First Nations water and wastewater operators. By providing training, certification, and professional development opportunities, we continue to advance our mission of ensuring safe, high-quality water services in First Nations communities.
Join us as we work towards a future of sustainability and excellence in water and wastewater management.
Phil, a Michipicoten FN band member is an Applied Science Technologist, holds a WT Class 4 Certificate, a WQA Certificate and has a Class 2 WWT License. Phil is the Hub Manager/ORO employed with the Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resource Council out of Kenora, Ontario. Phil has been working in the Water/Wastewater industry since 1995. He is passionately dedicated to providing water to the world.
Wes is a Class 3 WT operator working at Couchiching First nation.
Steve is from Temagami First Nation (Bear Island). He holds a Class II Water treatment, Class I Water Distribution, Class I Wastewater. He has been an Operator for 10 years.
Jason is a Level 3 Water Distribution and Supply Operator working for Henvey Inlet First Nation. Jason has been working for Henvey Inlet Water Treatment for over 15 years.
Jonathan is from Zhiibaahaasing First Nation. He has worked there for 9 years and holds a WT 2, Distribution 1 and OIT Wastewater.
Kayla is from Sagamok First Nation Anishnawbek who is an Environmental Protections and Compliance Technician. Kayla holds a Level 1 WT, WD OIT, WWT and WWC. She has been working as an operator for 7 years.
Michael Gillis, a member of Constance Lake First Nation, holds a WT Level 3, WD Level 2, WWT Level 2, and WWC Level 1 certification. He has served as the Operator in Responsible Charge (ORC) at the Constance Lake First Nation Water Treatment Plant since 2006, dedicated to providing safe, clean water for his community.
Sara is an experienced administrative coordinator with 10+ years of experience with AWWAO.
