There are many options to get training whether for Continuing Education, substitution for experience, or just staying abreast of changes in the drinking water industry. Training is available by attending a resident course (or event training) or by enrolling in distance learning. Distance learning courses may be correspondence courses, online learning and other computer based training. Click on the links to find a course that is right for you.
There are three levels to the Short Courses offered at Virginia Tech in late July or early August of each year. The courses are designed in a building block manner that the curricula for levels two and three are based on having completed the previous level. There is a week long short course for both waterworks and wastewater works operators.
The first course, Year 1, is an introductory level course emphasizing core subjects, such as disinfection, hydrologic cycle, and operator math. It focuses on groundwater treatment. The second level, Year 2, begins investigating the treatment of surface source water and continues course work on core subjects. The third level, Year 3, focuses on the unit treatment processes of surface source water and how to optimize these treatment processes.
A new short course has been developed that covers applied math and basic science concepts than waterworks operators need to know. It is desirable to take this course before the waterworks operator short courses described above. As math is not covered in the short courses, having a strong math background in essential to be able to successfully complete Years 2 and 3.
In the present economic climate, it is critical that waterworks personnel understand and implement a business plan that allows for an analysis of needs, budget development, and capital improvements. As a part of the planning process, one needs to consider the appropriate rate structure for a community, potential sources of grants or low interest loans, and communication with decision makers and the public. All of these subjects will be covered through lecture, class discussions, and hands-on computer activities. The training manual you will use was specifically designed for this course.
These workshops will be broadcast simultaneously to fourteen locations throughout the Commonwealth. Through the use of interactive technology you will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and to ask specific questions of the presenters and participants around the Commonwealth. The workshops will begin promptly at 12:00 p.m. and conclude at approximately 3:00 p.m. CPE certificates will be provided. Free. Click to register.
The Water Fluoridation Course is designed to educate plant operators in the various aspects of proper community water fluoridation. The two day course includes hands-on laboratory activities, calibration exercises, fluoridation costs analysis, and safety demonstrations. Free.
The Cross Connection Devices: Inspection, Maintenance and Testing Course is a two day (three-day course at Leesburg) is designed to prepare participants to test, inspect, and provide in-line maintenance of reduced pressure zone and other backflow prevention devices. Training includes both classroom and hands-on work with actual devices. Many local jurisdictions in Virginia accept the people certified by this course as authorized backflow device workers. Participants leave the workshop well prepared with a comprehensive course manual, sample cross-connection control programs and ordinances and the U.S.C. Manual of Cross Connection Control.
AWWA's stellar educational lineup continues with more seminars, webcasts, conferences, and Training-on-Demand. See the new schedule in the July/December 2008 Educational Programs Catalog and sign up today for the high-quality educational programs that only AWWA delivers.
AWWA educational programs set the industry standard in continuing education and cover the full spectrum of relevant, leading-edge water industry topics.
Waterworks Operators Education
