Vermont Rural Water Association

Personal Protective Equipment, Ladder, and Electrical Safety
2026-05-19 09:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This class will cover several safety considerations for water and wastewater personnel. First, we will look at new and improved personal protective equipment (PPE). Falls are the second highest cause of workplace fatality across the nation, so we will discuss ladder safety at home and in the workplace. Water and wastewater operators work on and around electrical equipment at their facilities. This class focuses on the electrical safety measures that should be in place at your facility.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Operation and Maintenance of Distribution Systems
2026-05-20 09:00 - 12:30, 2026-06-25 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Water distribution systems require preventative maintenance to reduce the risk of equipment failure and provide safe drinking water to consumers. This class will discuss some of the maintenance basics, including valve exercising, flushing, pipe replacement, pipe rehabilitation, and storage tank inspection and cleaning.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Wastewater Exam
2026-05-26 08:45 - 12:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on May 11. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 8:45 am. The exam will start promptly at 9 am.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Water Treatment: Filtration Processes
2026-05-26 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Water filtration is one of the most important treatment processes for the removal of contaminants from drinking water. Groundwater and surface water treatment facilities may use filtration processes for the removal of pathogens, iron and manganese, PFAS, radionuclides, as well as taste and odor control. In this class, we will look at how filters work and how they should be operated and maintained.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Wastewater Exam
2026-05-26 12:45 - 16:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on May 11. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 12:45 pm. The exam will start promptly at 1 pm.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Permit Required Confined Space Entry
2026-05-27 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Water and wastewater facilities contain many confined spaces which can be dangerous to operators. We will discuss common confined spaces in water and wastewater facilities and the difference between a confined space and a permit-required confined space. This class will build awareness about the safety hazards of a confined space such as atmospheric hazards (hydrogen sulfide, methane); mechanical hazards; and blood-borne pathogens that are a concern for wastewater collection system workers. You will learn about the proper protective equipment, procedures for entry into a permit-required confined space, the need for a rescue plan, and how to rescue a co-worker if the situation arises. OSHA CFR 1910.146
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Model Sewer Use Ordinance (SUO) and Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Guidance
2026-05-27 09:00 - 12:30 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This will be a two-part class that reviews Sewer Use Ordinances (SUO) and Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG). The first part of this training will address Sewer Use Ordinances (SUO) by discussing the format and requirements that should be included in a strong SUO and providing example conditions and language to consider when updating your ordinance. Randy Bean has developed a model SUO that wastewater systems and municipalities can use as a template for developing their own ordinance. This template will be shared during class.
The second part of the training will present information on Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG). This will include information on best management practices for FOG control, sizing of interceptors, the generation of FOG by various users, inspections and maintenance of interceptors, and methods to control the discharge of FOG into your collection system.
Credit
3 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Randy Bean
Proctor
Wayne Graham (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Source Water Protection: Developing a Source Protection Plan or Update
2026-05-27 09:30 - 15:00 | Norwich Public Safety Building, 10 Hazen Street, Norwich, VT, 05055, United States
Class Description
Join staff from the State of Vermont Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division (DWGPD) and Vermont Rural Water to learn the why and how of developing a Source Protection Plan and plan updates. This training focuses on developing the basic plan components required under the VT Water Supply Rule and the tools and resources available to help prepare your water system’s Source Protection Plan or Source Protection Plan Update. An introduction to the ANR Natural Resources Atlas mapping tool and the Department of Environmental Conservation Searchable Databases are provided. Participants are shown how to use the ANR NR Atlas to create maps for use in the plan document, identify landowners within the Source Protection Area, and identify and perform a search for records related to potential sources of contamination and well completion reports.
Water systems are encouraged to take the opportunity to interact and ask questions directly of the Source Water Protection Specialists on the development of their specific source protection plan or plan update.
Important Notes

Attendees are strongly encouraged to bring a laptop computer, power cord, access to their current source protection plan, and any pertinent water system documents with them. Power and WiFi will be available. Links to various databases and resources will be provided for use during the workshop session.
A 30-minute lunch break will be provided and two 15-minute breaks. Light refreshments will be provided during breaks. A light lunch will be provided such as pizza. Individuals are welcome to bring their own snacks, lunch, and drinks.
Carpooling is encouraged as parking is limited.

Class Credit
4.5 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 3 | Learn more
Instructors
Laura Ranker and Will Ebby (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Brad Roy (Vermont Rural Water Association)
CLASS CANCELLED
This class will be offered again on September 29 in Swanton, VT. Register here.

Trench and Excavation Safety
2026-05-28 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Water and wastewater operators face dangerous situations when excavating trenches to repair water and sewer lines. Trench collapses happen without warning and cause severe injuries or death. Open trenches and pipe repairs include many other hazards such as water accumulation, other buried utilities, surface encumbrances, and traffic. This course focuses on OSHA 1926 and the safe procedure for operators to follow when working in or around a trench or excavation.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Wastewater Lift Stations from an Operator's Perspective
2026-06-02 09:00 - 12:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This comprehensive class was developed from many years of hands-on station experience and is designed for anyone who is tasked with operating, managing, or owning wastewater lift stations. This class will cover a range of topics from a functional perspective, including: what is a lift station, proper operation/maintenance, best practices, operational basics, troubleshooting, and upgrading. Examples of standard operating procedures will be provided. This is a guided, structured presentation intended to pass on the knowledge of seasoned operators to our newer operators and managers. Come ready to participate and share your challenges and successes!
Credit
3 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Rick Chaput (Vergennes WWTF)
Proctor
Wayne Graham (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Preventing Heat Illness in the Workplace
2026-06-03 09:00 - 11:15 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
In this session, participants will learn what heat illness is, risk factors, and simple safety practices to prevent heat illness. Different types of heat-related illnesses will be reviewed. The class will also examine the responsibility and tools that employers have to keep employees safe from heat illness.
Credit
2 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Miriam Owens (Vermont Occupational and Health Administration)
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

PFAS & Water Supply Rule
2026-06-04 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Members of the Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division will be going over recent changes to the Vermont Water Supply Rule involving the regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that go into effect on January 1, 2026. This will include discussion on changes to sampling requirements, the new MCLs, and how systems achieve and maintain compliance with the regulation.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Ben Montross and Janelle Wilbur (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Additional Sessions
Wednesday, July 22 – Register Here
Tuesday, August 4 – Register Here

Issuing a Boil Water Notice
2026-06-16 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Issuing a Boil Water notice can be a complicated process, but could prevent negative health impacts to your water system’s consumers. It is important to be prepared in advance of an emergency by knowing when and how to issue a Boil Water notice—or even a Do Not Drink order.
This class will look at the reasons to issue a Boil Water notice, the procedures to determine if a notice is needed, and ways to make sure all affected consumers are notified.
This class encourages discussion from participants.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Hands-On Pipe Repair Training
2026-06-17 10:00 - 14:00 | EJ Prescott – South Burlington, 1235 Airport Pkwy, South Burlington, VT, 05403, United States
Description
This training will cover all types of repairs from using repair clamps, couplings, mechanical joint fittings, joint restraints, and saddles. The instructor will go over different types of breaks, leak location, proper ways to outside diameter pipe, and torque recommendations. This class will include hands-on demonstrations or installation of each. EJP will be graciously providing lunch for attendees.
Credit
3.5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Chris Rogers (EJ Prescott)
Proctor
Wayne Graham & Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Safety: Water and Wastewater Facility Flooding
2026-06-18 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Water and wastewater facilities face an increasing threat of flood events in Vermont. Flooding can cause major damage to facilities and assets and pose a safety hazard to all involved.
Knowing the safety hazards that may be present during flooding events and having a solid emergency response plan are key to reducing the risk of injury and fatalities. This class will map out preparations that water and wastewater facility operators can take to be better prepared for future flooding events.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Water Treatment Category 3, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Treatment: Coagulation
2026-06-24 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Surface water may contain constituents such as pathogenic microorganisms, natural organic matter, and sometimes chemicals. Surface water may also have taste and odor issues. The coagulation process is an important part of removing these constituents. Enhanced coagulation in any surface water treatment facility should be a top priority. pH and alkalinity play an important role in the chemistry of coagulation as well as the flash mix. Enhanced coagulation optimizes pH and coagulant dosages to remove as much natural organic matter as possible.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Polymer Master Class & Corrosion Control
2026-07-14 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This two-part class is designed to provide drinking water and wastewater operators with a deeper understanding of polymers and corrosion control. The first section focuses on optimizing polymer use—not just by price per pound, but by evaluating compatibility with specific sludge characteristics, dewatering equipment, and application methods. Operators will learn how to calculate appropriate concentrations and dilution rates for their facility, with interactive elements to encourage critical thinking and engagement. The second section covers the fundamentals and benefits of corrosion control, including strategies for protecting copper, lead, and iron pipes, addressing manganese and tuberculation issues, and optimizing testing and chemical dosing. Participants will gain practical knowledge to proactively detect and prevent system failures, improving water quality and saving on long-term costs.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
1.5 TCH (Wastewater)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Ryan Peebles (Clean Waters, Inc.)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Distribution Essentials
2026-07-16 09:00 - 12:30 | F.W. Webb – Bennington, 240 East Rd, Bennington, VT, 05201, United States
Description
Join Troy Ebbighausen from F.W. Webb for a comprehensive 3-hour training designed for water operators and distribution personnel. This session will cover practical, day-to-day skills and safety essentials for working in the field.
Topics include:

Mega Lugs—Learn the differences between types for various pipes and proper installation techniques.
Repair Clamps—Understand the role of clamps in water main repair, including correct torque specifications.
HDPE Service Lines—Best practices for making secure and lasting connections with a live demo on HDPE electro fusion.
Daily Operations—Field-proven tips for improving efficiency and performance in water distribution tasks.

This training will equip attendees with practical knowledge and reinforce safe, effective methods for maintaining and repairing water distribution systems.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Troy Ebbighausen & John Bonnette (F.W. Webb)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

PFAS & Water Supply Rule
2026-07-22 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Members of the Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division will be going over recent changes to the Vermont Water Supply Rule involving the regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that go into effect on January 1, 2026. This will include discussion on changes to sampling requirements, the new MCLs, and how systems achieve and maintain compliance with the regulation.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Ben Montross and Janelle Wilbur (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Storage Tank Design and Maintenance
2026-08-13 09:00 - 12:30 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course will focus on the design and maintenance of water storage tanks. Participants will learn the types of water storage tanks, as well as materials and design requirements to consider when planning for the addition of a new water storage tank. Like any asset, water storage tanks require routine inspection and maintenance. The course will review best practices and disinfection requirements.
This class will conclude with a site visit to Champlain Water District’s storage tanks in Colchester.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Nate Pion (Aldrich + Elliott)
Joe Duncan (Champlain Water District)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Leak Detection and Pipe Location
2026-08-18 08:30 - 13:00 | Killington Public Safety Building, 800 Killington Road, Killington, VT, 05751, United States
Description
This class will cover the basic theory of pipe locating for water utilities including ground penetrating radar. It will help operators troubleshoot difficult locates, tools for locating plastic pipes, and when to use specific frequencies. Participants will also learn about the fundamentals of how leak detection surveys are performed and pinpointing water leaks in the system.
Credit
4 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Instructors
Eric Denslow (Eastcom Associates)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Wastewater Exam
2026-08-26 08:45 - 12:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on August 11. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 8:45 am. The exam will start promptly at 9 am.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Wastewater Exam
2026-08-26 12:45 - 16:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Licensing exams for all levels of Vermont domestic and industrial (dairy, metal, paper) pollution abatement facility operators. The exam will be administered on a laptop.
Registration closes on August 11. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
You do not need to get approval from the Office of Professional Regulations (OPR) before testing.
What to expect:

Please arrive by 12:45 pm. The exam will start promptly at 1 pm.
You will be provided with a laptop, mouse, calculator, ABC formula sheet, scratch paper, pencil, and earplugs. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent and non-programmable without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
Bring a government-issued ID that shows your name and photograph.
You will not be allowed to have personal items with you during the exam. Coats, hats, and bags should be left in your vehicle or a designated spot outside of the exam room. You will be given a bag to store your cellphone, wallet, and keys during the exam. Cellphones/pagers must be silenced or powered off.
Eating, drinking, or smoking is not permitted in the exam room.
You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost during breaks. During breaks, you are permitted to leave the exam room to use the bathroom. However, you are not permitted to leave the building (including for smoking). Each break cannot exceed 10 minutes.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register. By registering for this exam, you consent to have your results shared with Office of Professional Regulation (OPR), the Wastewater Management Program, and Vermont Rural Water.

Managing Disinfection Byproducts
2026-09-01 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
The management of Disinfection Byproducts (DBP), including regulated DBPs like TTHMs and HAA5, is a balancing act consisting of effective microbial pathogen inactivation and reducing natural organic matter in treated drinking water.
This training will cover the following topics:

Regulatory Compliance: understanding Stage 1 and Stage 2 disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rules (DBPRs).
DBP Formation Chemistry: how disinfectants like chlorine and chloramines react with naturally occurring organic carbon.
Optimization Strategies: techniques for reducing DBP formation, including enhanced coagulation, changing disinfectant application points, and alternative disinfection methods (UV, ozone).
Distribution Management: managing water age, tank mixing, and flushing programs to control DBP levels in the distribution system.

Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 1 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Filter Surveillance
2026-09-02 09:00 - 11:15 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
Proactively keeping filters in good condition is key to maintaining a sound barrier against pathogens and maximizing production efficiency. In this presentation, information will be provided on how to overcome data collection and management barriers using field data visualization tools.
Credit
2 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 2, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Tyler Hudson (Hazen & Sawyer)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 4 Water Certification Exam Preparation Course
2026-09-03 08:30 - 2026-10-23 15:30 | Multiple Locations, Essex, Hartford, Waterbury, Rutland
Dates & Locations
Thursday, September 3 – Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Thursday, September 10 – Hartford Town Office (171 Bridge St, White River Junction)
Thursday, September 24 – Waterbury Municipal Center, Community Room (28 N Main St, Waterbury)
Thursday, October 1 – Hartford Town Office (171 Bridge St, White River Junction)
Wednesday, October 7 – Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Thursday, October 15 – Waterbury Municipal Center, Community Room (28 N Main St, Waterbury)
Wednesday, October 21 – Hartford Town Office (171 Bridge St, White River Junction)
Thursday, October 22 – F.W. Webb (3091 Cold River Rd, Rutland)
Friday, October 23 – on Zoom from 9 am to 12:30 pm
Time
8:30 am to 3:30 pm unless otherwise noted
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those training to become a Class 4 water treatment operator. All aspects of water operations are covered to prepare you to take the certification exams. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Water Treatment Plant Operation, Volume 1 (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Treatment, Grade 2 (American Water Works Association) – $91
This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $111
Click the links above to purchase each book. The deadline to purchase books is August 19. Books will be shipped on August 20.
Credit
51 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1 & 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Class 4 Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams
Additional Classes
Students are encouraged to take Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators on September 25. Register here.

Distribution Certification Exam Preparation Course
2026-09-08 08:30 - 2026-10-29 15:30 | Multiple Locations, Essex, Hartford, Waterbury, Rutland
Dates & Locations
Tuesday, September 8 – Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Tuesday, September 22 – F.W. Webb (3091 Cold River Rd, Rutland)
Tuesday, September 29 – Hartford Town Office (171 Bridge St, White River Junction)
Tuesday, October 6 – Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Tuesday, October 13 – F.W. Webb (3091 Cold River Rd, Rutland)
Tuesday, October 20 – Vermont Rural Water Association (20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B, Essex Junction)
Friday, October 23 – on Zoom from 9 am to 12:30 pm
Time
8:30 am to 3:30 pm unless otherwise noted
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those preparing to take the Distribution (Class D) Certification Exam. Topics will include all aspects of distribution systems, as well as hydraulics, water chemistry, water mathematics, and sampling procedures. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Water Distribution System Operation and Maintenance (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Distribution, Grades 1 & 2 (American Water Works Association) – $101
This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $111
Click the links above to purchase each book. The deadline to purchase books is August 24. Books will be shipped on August 25.
Credit
39 TCH (Water)
Treatment Category 1 & 2, Distribution Category 1 & 2 | Learn more
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Distribution Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams
Additional Classes
Students are encouraged to take Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators on September 25. Register here.

State Revolving Funds for Clean Water
2026-09-09 09:00 - 11:15 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This training will provide an overview of the Clean Water State Revolving Funding (CWSRF) financing programs, with a focus on the administrative and financial aspects of these program. Participants will develop a working knowledge of the CWSRF program and learn about eligible borrowers and project types. The session will cover planning, design, and construction loans available through this low-interest and heavily subsidized water infrastructure funding program, including the role of asset management in project development. The training will also explain the SRF annual funding cycle, including the development and use of the Intended Use Plans (IUPs) and project priority lists for competitive funding. Attendees will gain an understanding of how to use this Federal funding program offered by the DEC’s Water Infrastructure Finance Program to fund their community’s wastewater funding needs. An overview of the State’s Pollution Control (PC) Grant program will also be provided. Additionally, the course will outline the eligibility requirements, necessary documentations and approvals required for a complete loan application.
Credit
2 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructors
Tom Brown (DEC Water Investment Division)
Proctor
Liz Royer (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Advanced SCADA, Remote Monitoring, and Cybersecurity
2026-09-10 08:00 - 12:30 | Franklin Events Center, 1 Scale Ave, Rutland, VT, 05701, United States
Class Description
This technical course explores the architecture, deployment, and strategic safeguarding of modern Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. Participants will learn about and understand the foundational principles of SCADA technology to identify applications where automated data collection shines. The course highlights the operational frameworks where monitoring systems excel, with segmented cyber security protocols to protect remote telemetry networks. Attendees will evaluate real-world use cases, data transmission methods, hardware, and strategies to optimize utility management. By the conclusion of this class, students will possess the framework needed to securely select, deploy, and maintain resilient remote monitoring solutions tailored to municipal and industrial demands. This training will also have access to Mission’s mobile training unit, an RV outfitted to provide hands-on demonstrations and training for the cloud-based 123SCADA platform and remote terminal units (RTUs).
Refreshments and lunch will generously be provided by Champlin Associates.
Class Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Treatment Category 1, Distribution Category 2 | Learn more
Instructors
Dave Crawford & Chip Crawford (Champlin Associates)
Proctor
Forest Anderson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
