In this episode, Suzan continues her conversation with Dr. Marissa Jablonski to explore one of the most innovative and scalable workforce development initiatives in the water sector: The Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin. Built to unite 13 universities and 23 campuses across the state, this collaborative model strengthens water education, expands hands-on learning opportunities, and connects students directly to real-world jobs, all while solving statewide workforce shortages.
Dr. Jablonski walks through how the program was formed, the challenges it addressed, and why collaboration, not competition, has been the key to its success. From K–12 outreach and summer camps to fieldwork-driven university courses and statewide internship pathways, the Collaborative has become a one-stop hub for water-related training, research, and industry partnership. The model has already produced thousands of engaged students, millions of dollars in support, and a clear blueprint that any state, province, or region could replicate.
Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Dr. Marissa Jablonski
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Key Discussion Points:
- How the Freshwater Collaborative began and why it was needed
- The benefits of uniting universities, industry partners, tribal nations, and government agencies
- How K–12 programs and hands-on learning drive early interest in water careers
- Why fieldwork and lab experiences improve student retention in water programs
- How the Collaborative fills internships and job pipelines across Wisconsin
- Funding strategies and how resource-sharing strengthens sustainability
- The power of collaboration vs. competition in higher education and workforce development
- Why this model can be replicated anywhere and how to get started
Why It Matters:
The Freshwater Collaborative is more than an educational initiative, it’s a statewide engine for workforce development, economic growth, and environmental resilience. By pooling resources and aligning goals across institutions, it proves what’s possible when education, industry, and government work together.
🔗 Resources & Links
- 🌐 Website: com
- 📸 Instagram: @PlasticFreeMarisa
- 🌊 Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin: wisconsin.edu
Connect With Dr. Marissa Jablonski:
Consultant & Director, Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin
Email: marissajablonski@gmail.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissajablonski/
Conclusion:
The Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin shows what’s possible when education, industry, and government stop competing for resources and start working together. By unifying universities, strengthening hands-on learning, and creating clear pathways into water careers, this model is helping build a stronger, more resilient workforce for the future. The impact already seen across Wisconsin proves that collaboration can solve long-standing shortages, support real-world water challenges, and inspire more students to join this vital industry. It’s a blueprint any state or region can adapt — and a reminder that when we pool our expertise and resources, everyone wins.
Until next time—keep growing, and keep it flowing. 💧
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Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:
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Email: raven@creativeraven.com
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