MDC AND HEDCO RECOGNIZE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Strategic Partnership helped foster small local business capacity and workforce development
November 24, 2025
For Immediate Release
(HARTFORD, CT) – The Metropolitan District (MDC) the water and sewer provider for the greater Hartford region and HEDCO, Inc. a leading nonprofit organization committed to empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs, recently held and event to recognize a successful workforce development and capacity building program to support vital infrastructure projects.
The strategic partnership’s purpose was to expand employment opportunities, enhance skills training, and support the growth of small and minority-owned businesses in the water and wastewater industry. The program was designed to develop programs that promote sustainable job creation, increase access to technical training, and provide financial and advisory support to local entrepreneurs seeking to participate in infrastructure projects with MDC and its contractors.
The initial pilot program ran from May through October 2025, with a focus on targeted training, capacity-building, and mentorship. HEDCO and MDC continue to evaluate outcomes and explore opportunities for expansion and continued collaboration. A video of the program highlighting some of the participants is available on YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ84nWrHhyk
“By aligning our workforce development goals with the resources and expertise of HEDCO, we are investing in a stronger, more inclusive future for our industry and the communities we serve,” said Scott Jellison, MDC CEO. “This partnership helps ensure that we’re not only meeting our infrastructure needs but also empowering local talent and businesses,” stated MDC Chairman Donald Currey.
“This partnership marks an important step in strengthening our local economy and ensuring that small businesses—especially those owned by minorities and women—have access to the opportunities and resources they need to succeed,” said Kim B. Hawkins, President & CEO of HEDCO Inc. “We are proud to work alongside MDC to create a more resilient, skilled, and inclusive network of contractors for the future.”
About MDC The MDC is a nonprofit municipal corporation chartered by the Connecticut General Assembly in 1929. The MDC provides water, wastewater treatment and other services to its member towns: Bloomfield, East Hartford, Hartford, Newington, Rocky Hill, West Hartford, Wethersfield and Windsor.
About HEDCO Inc. For over 50 years, HEDCO Inc. has supported Connecticut’s small businesses and nonprofits through access to capital, business development services, education, and mentorship. HEDCO is committed to fostering entrepreneurship, economic inclusion, and community empowerment.