Elizabeth Heinz Helps Attract the Next Generation of Water Workers

Elizabeth Heinz grew up in North Dakota, but only recently returned home this year. She moved to Arizona with her parents when she was younger and eventually lived in Central Pennsylvania before returning to Bismarck after 20 years away.

“North Dakota is home for me, I grew up here,” says Heinz. “It’s been a cool experience to reconnect with a region I’m so familiar with while building a new life here.”

Since her return, Heinz has stepped into an Apprenticeship Coordinator Role for the North Dakota Rural Water Systems Association (NDRWA) and is shaping the future of water management across the state. Read how she is Making Her Mark as she starts the next chapter of her life. 

Heinz Applies Her Human Resources Background to the NDRWA

Heinz has a degree in communications and stepped into a human resources role after graduating from college. Throughout her career, she has worked in multiple human resource departments and explored different industries.

“With human resources, you aren’t tied to any singular industry,” explains Heinz. “Everything from grocery to retail to healthcare to manufacturing needs HR support.”

At the NDRWA, Heinz works to attract the next generation of water systems operators, ensuring the residents of North Dakota have access to clean water from their faucets and safe drainage back to the processing facilities.

“Water is life,” says Heinz. “It impacts us daily as consumers but is also essential to countless businesses, from power companies to farmers.”

There’s a Significant Shortage of Water Workers

Heinz and her team play an invaluable role in recruiting and supporting water workers in North Dakota. Nearly 1.7 million people employed in the water sector are at retirement age, and experts believe 30% and 50% of the workforce will retire in the next decade. The NDRWA meets with community leaders, education partners, and utility companies to highlight the importance of water operator succession planning in the immediate future.  
“We’re looking for people willing to learn,” says Heinz. “We want applicants who are eager to try something new. Technical aptitude helps, as well.”

Heinz has attended 15 career fairs across the state since she stepped into her role in February 2025. She attends local Earth Day events and Water Day at the North Dakota State Fair. Many people don’t realize that working as a water operator is a career option. The first step in attracting people is to help them understand that communities need people to make water flow.

Heinz’s recruiting background helps her meet with job fair attendees and other North Dakota residents who might be interested in this work. She is not only trying to support the water needs of rural communities but also creating a talent pipeline. Heinz meets with career academies and schools to highlight the skills water operators need while also encouraging community leaders to develop grants and scholarships that make training more affordable.  

Heinz Has Formed a Community With Bismarck Professionals

Once settled into Bismarck, Heinz set out to make friends and develop professional connections. She is a member of the local Society of Human Resource Management chapter, the Central Dakota Human Resource Association, and is actively involved in the Young Professionals Network.

“I sought out Young Professionals because I was part of it in Pennsylvania and knew it would be a good way to meet like-minded people,” says Heinz. “I am now a member of the board as an event specialist. It’s a great way to learn about different businesses and leave the house.”

When she’s not at work or attending local events, Heinz enjoys reading, camping, hiking, gardening, and cooking. She appreciates how North Dakota allows her to experience each season, from gentle spring days to crisp fall mornings. 

Discover How Other Residents Make Their Mark

North Dakota is a wonderful place to live because of its people. Heinz highlights that through her water processing recruitment work and involvement in local organizations. She is a great example of someone who returned home and is excited to have a positive impact on her community.

Anyone can Mark Their Mark in Bismarck-Mandan, from supporting global conservation efforts at the zoo to waving to a neighbor during the morning commute. Reach out if you want to share how you Mark Your Mark, whether it involves local businesses, the arts, nature, sports, and everything in between.

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