The Fusion/Electrofusion of HDPE Water Piping Systems Program, sponsored by the Municipal Advisory Board (MAB), is proving vital for communities by eliminating water loss from pipeline leaks, reducing emergency main breaks, and advancing careers for infrastructure workers. The program trains utility technicians, operators, inspectors, and engineers in proper fusion techniques for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) piping used in potable and wastewater applications. Heat fusion creates seamless, leak-free connections that prevent joint failures common in traditional piping systems.
Since its inception in 2021, the program has graduated nearly 150 utility professionals and college students from 22 cities nationwide, according to Camille George Rubeiz, P.E., co-chair of MAB and vice president of the Plastics Pipe Institute's Municipal & Industrial Division. The program has expanded from one session to four per year, attracting attendees from Maine to California.
College students are also benefiting. Carly Wilkerson, a construction engineering student at Purdue University (Class of 2026), praised the hands-on approach: "The best way to learn was through hands-on experiences. The team aspect of the training was extremely vital in our continuous improvement throughout the process."
HDPE piping offers significant advantages over aging infrastructure. The material is corrosion-proof, eliminating rust-related failures, and heat-fused joints prevent loss of non-revenue water—treated water that escapes before reaching customers. HDPE's flexibility also allows for trenchless installation, minimizing property damage and road disruption during upgrades.
The training is held at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) in Green Bay, led by expert instructors. The 11th class in summer 2025 included special guests from the City of Green Bay, and Mayor Eric Genrich accepted a certificate of appreciation for the city's support of workforce development programs.
Rubeiz noted consistent positive feedback: trainees cite "hands-on training with instructors who have 25+ years of experience" and describe the curriculum as "informational and fun." When asked how to improve, participants said "nothing" and "in my opinion nothing needs to change." MAB and its members are committed to continuing the initiative to save water, reduce water main breaks, build workforce skills, and create resilient water systems. More information on the 2026 training schedule is available at www.plasticpipe.org/mabpubs.
