Small water systems serve ~ 15% of the Canadian population and face unique challenges; however, small systems are often overlooked in terms of research, resources, and support. This project aims to better understand the experiences, challenges, and needs of small water systems operators and develop a co-training program to assist in capacity building. This pilot program introduces co-training between engineering students and water and wastewater (W&WW) operators, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and strengthening the skills and resources available to both parties. This project is a collaboration between Carleton University and Yukon University’s Water and Wastewater Operator Program (YWWOP). Interviews and surveys of W&WW operators are used as a tool to collect information around their experiences, challenges, support needed, feedback on current training programs, and thoughts about co-training with engineering students. Through co-training, the goal is for engineering and operator students to develop a more comprehensive understanding of water treatment through exchanging knowledge, gaining hands-on skills, and experiential learning. Preliminary results have been positive, with data collection ongoing. This project has the potential to enhance the capacity building of small systems operators in the Yukon and engineering students at Carleton University and other southern institutions by strengthening the skills, knowledge, and resources available to both parties.