Water Distribution Course
2025-09-04 08:30 - 2025-10-16 15:30 (America/New_York) | Waterbury Municipal Center, Community Room, 28 N Main St, Waterbury, VT, 05676, United States
Dates
Thursday, September 4
Thursday, September 11
Thursday, September 25
Friday, October 3 (at Dewey Conference Room, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier)
Thursday, October 9
Thursday, October 14 (on Zoom)
8:30 am to 3:30 pm each day
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) – $96
This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106
Books can be purchased along with your registration and will be distributed on the first day of class.
Credit
36 TCH (Water)
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

Polymer Master Class & Corrosion Control
2025-09-09 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 (Wastewater)
2 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Ryan Peebles (Clean Waters, Inc.)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Industrial User Surveys
2025-09-10 08:00 - 12:30 | Waterbury State Office Complex, Fox Conference Center, 280 State Drive, Waterbury, VT, 05676, United States
Description
Knowing who is discharging to a municipal wastewater treatment facility (WWTF) and understanding what industrial users are discharging is becoming more and more critical to successful operation and troubleshooting for municipal WWTF operators.
This class will cover the basics of how to identify users and their discharges by using surveys. The instructors will include information on how to prepare and conduct a typical Clean Water Act National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)-compliant Industrial User Survey (IUS). An effective method of collecting data is using online survey tools. Basic instruction on how to set up and use a free SurveyMonkey account will be provided.
Thoughts for successfully getting useful survey responses will also be explored. After the hands-on survey development and review of typical results, there will be a discussion on how information received can be used to understand changes that may be helpful to minimize the likelihood of upsets to the municipal system.
Important Notes
This training is intended to include a productive work session. It is most helpful (but not required) if you bring a computer or tablet capable of an internet connection.
Credit
4 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructors
Heidi Marchall and Nichole Davis (Hoyle, Tanner & Associates, Inc.)
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)
This class is being provided free of charge by the City of Barre as part of the settlement of an enforcement action with the Agency of Natural Resources.

De-escalating High Intensity Situations
2025-09-23 09:00 - 12:30 | Essex Police Department, 145 Maple Street, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
Verbal de-escalation training is a valuable skillset that equips individuals with effective communication tools to navigate tense and potentially volatile situations. Mourning Fox’s training is dynamic and engaging, no matter if this is a new topic for a participant or a well-seasoned clinician. He focuses on preventing violence through assessment and verbal interactions. Participants in this training gain skills and knowledge to help them to better identify who is at risk of becoming violent or aggressive, and what the behavioral signs are that someone may be potentially assaultive. Participants learn skills and techniques that can help to de-escalate high intensity situations verbally. In addition, he presents methods for improving staff communication around and during a crisis as well as the importance of documentation language. The role of respect as a protective factor is discussed throughout the training as well as some basic brain science that can impact our attempts at de-escalating a situation.
Mourning Fox uses information he has gained over the years as a Crisis Prevention Institute trainer, a Non-Abusive Physical and Psychological Intervention trainer, and as a Mental Health First Aid trainer combined with information he gained as a trained crisis negotiator working with law enforcement. This training ultimately aims to promote conflict resolution through dialogue, creating safer and more harmonious interactions in various settings.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Mourning Fox (Caldera Associates, LLC)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 3 Water Treatment Course
2025-09-24 08:30 - 2025-10-28 15:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Dates
Wednesday, September 24
Tuesday, September 30
Tuesday, October 7
Tuesday, October 14 (on Zoom)
Tuesday, October 21
Tuesday, October 28
8:30 am to 3:30 pm each day
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those training to become a Class 3 water treatment operator. All aspects of water operations are covered to prepare you to take the certification exam. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Small Water System Operation and Maintenance (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Treatment, Grade 2 (American Water Works Association) – $86

This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106
Books can be purchased along with your registration and will be distributed on the first day of class.
Credit
36 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Class 3 Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams

Basic Wastewater Course
2025-09-25 08:00 - 2025-11-05 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Dates
Thursday, September 25
Thursday, October 2
Thursday, October 9
Wednesday, October 15 – on Zoom (beginning at 9 am)
Thursday, October 16
Thursday, October 23
Thursday, October 30
Wednesday, November 5
8 am to 3 pm each day (except October 15)
Description
This eight-session course will prepare attendees to take the Grades 1, 2, or 3 Domestic Wastewater certification exams, and is a great primer for those taking higher grade exams. Attendees will learn the basic concepts of wastewater treatment from collection system to final disposal of effluents and solids.
The course will be taught by Elijah Lemieux and Wayne Graham from the Vermont Rural Water Association, along with guest presenters to provide expertise on specific topics.
Textbook
The course is based on Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants (Volume 1, 8th edition) by the Office of Water Programs. All students are required to have a copy of this book. You can purchase it for $100 when you register for this class.
Credit
47 TCH – Wastewater
Cost
$800 (with textbook)
$700 (no textbook)
Register early! The maximum class size is 20.

Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 1
2025-10-01 09:00 - 15:00 | F.W. Webb, 80 Park Avenue, Williston, VT, United States
Description
This class is part of a three-day series that covers basic math concepts that operators use frequently in their work and are most likely to appear on the water and wastewater certification exams. Participants may sign up for one or all three of the individual classes. We encourage participants to attend all three days if they are preparing for water or wastewater exams.
In this first session, the following topics will be covered:

ABC Formula Sheet review
Solving word problems
Mathematical rules of thumb
Conversion factors
Perimeter, area, and volume

Textbook
Math Handbook for Water System Operators by Bob Larsen is required for all students. You can purchase this book along with your registration for $40. Books will be distributed at the beginning of class.
Credit
5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Cost
$40 Member
$80 Non-member
$40 Textbook
Additional Classes
This is the first in a series of three classes. You are not required to take all three.
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 2 on Wednesday, October 15 – Register Here
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 3 on Wednesday, October 22 – Register Here

Regulatory Communications and Recordkeeping for Small Water Systems
2025-10-09 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This class will discuss communications with the State and recordkeeping for small water systems. The first part is a guide to routine correspondence with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), including what to expect, what to do, and who to call. The second part will cover recordkeeping, including what papers to keep in your file, where and how to find them, and the valuable information they have for your knowledge.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Ashleigh Belrose (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Small Systems Class 2 Water Treatment Course
2025-10-14 09:00 - 2025-10-23 13:30 | Hybrid (Zoom & Essex), 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course is designed for those who will be taking the Vermont Class 2 Water Operator Certification Exam. The four-session class provides an overview of how to operate a small public water system using groundwater as a source. Topics include the Safe Drinking Water Act requirements, source water sampling, well construction, source protection, water storage, distribution, hydraulics, cross-connections, safety, disinfection, treatment, and relevant math.
This class is not designed for the operators of Transient Non-Community Systems (TNCs).
Credit
16 TCH (Water)
Textbook
Introduction to Small Water Systems is recommended for this class. You can purchase it here for $60. Please purchase by October 6 to receive it by the first day of class.
Dates
Tuesday, October 14
Thursday, October 16
Tuesday, October 21
Thursday, October 23
9 am to 1:30 pm each day
Hybrid
Each session will be held in-person at our office in Essex and on Zoom. For each session, you will receive a Zoom link by email the day before class. Click here for more information about webinar trainings.
In-person address:
20 Susie Wilson Rd, Suite B
Essex Junction, VT 05452
Please park in lower lot, behind building. Handicap parking is available in upper lot by entrance.
Instructor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Those seeking a Class 2 water operator certification after completing this course are encouraged to sign up early to take an exam. There are two options:

Paper exams will be offered on Friday, November 7 in Montpelier and Rutland. The registration deadline is October 3. Register at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams
Computer-based exams are offered by appointment in South Burlington and some PSI testing centers in other states. Learn more about computer exams here.

Wastewater Microbiology: A Monitoring Program for Operators
2025-10-15 09:00 - 15:00 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Learn the role of bacteria, protozoa and metazoa in the treatment process along with the conditions that allow them to do their best work of removing nutrients from wastewater. Topics will include microbiota identification, development of a wastewater microbiology monitoring program, how to foster system conditions that favor the growth of phosphorus-accumulating microorganisms (PAOs), and how to troubleshoot existing treatment system problems.
Credit
5 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Toni Glymph
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 2
2025-10-15 09:00 - 15:00 | F.W. Webb, 80 Park Avenue, Williston, VT, United States
Description
This class is part of a three-day series that covers basic math concepts that operators use frequently in their work and are most likely to appear on the water and wastewater certification exams. Participants may sign up for one or all three of the individual classes. We encourage participants to attend all three days if they are preparing for water or wastewater exams.
In this second session, the following topics will be covered:

Concentration
Density and specific gravity
Force and pressure of water
Velocity and flow
Detention time
Head and head loss
Water pumping and storage
Chemical dosage and chemical feed rate

Textbook
Math Handbook for Water System Operators by Bob Larsen is required for all students. You can purchase this book along with your registration for $40. Books will be distributed at the beginning of class.
Credit
5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Cost
$40 Member
$80 Non-member
$40 Textbook
Additional Classes
This is the second in a series of three classes. You are not required to take all three.
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 1 on Wednesday, October 1 – Register Here
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 3 on Wednesday, October 22 – Register Here

Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 3
2025-10-22 09:00 - 15:00 | F.W. Webb, 80 Park Avenue, Williston, VT, United States
Description
This class is part of a three-day series that covers basic math concepts that operators use frequently in their work and are most likely to appear on the water and wastewater certification exams. Participants may sign up for one or all three of the individual classes. We encourage participants to attend all three days if they are preparing for water or wastewater exams.
In this third and final session, the following topics will be covered:

Filter flow rate and filter backwash rate
Clarifier loading
Horsepower and efficiency
Chlorine calculations
Electricity and power costs
Alkalinity

Textbook
Math Handbook for Water System Operators by Bob Larsen is required for all students. You can purchase this book along with your registration for $40. Books will be distributed at the beginning of class.
Credit
5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Cost
$40 Member
$80 Non-member
$40 Textbook
Additional Classes
This is the second in a series of three classes. You are not required to take all three.
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 1 on Wednesday, October 1 – Register Here
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 2 on Wednesday, October 15 – Register Here

Generator Maintenance
2025-10-27 09:00 - 12:30 | Killington Grand Hotel, 228 E Mountain Rd, Killington, VT, 05751, United States
Description
This class covers essential skills for the maintenance and installation of generators in water and wastewater treatment facilities, ensuring operational reliability and compliance with industry standards. Participants will gain hands-on experience with generator systems, focusing on troubleshooting, routine upkeep, and installation best practices. Additionally, the course includes an overview of state regulations governing generator use in water and wastewater facilities and will ensure that operators are familiar with safety requirements.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Jim Brochhausen (Brook Field Service)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Lunch
Lunch will be provided by by Brook Field Service!

Class 3 Exam Preparation
2025-10-29 08:30 - 13:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This course is designed as a short review for the Class 3 water operator certification exam. We will review test-taking skills, exam questions, math problems, and general water system operations. You will have the chance to take a practice exam and go over the answers.
Credit
4 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Storage Tank Design and Maintenance
2025-10-29 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)
Instructor
Nate Pion (Aldrich + Elliott)
Joe Duncan (Champlain Water District)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)
CLASS CANCELLED

Class 4 Exam Preparation
2025-10-30 08:30 - 13:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course is designed as a short review for the Class 4 water operator certification exam. We will review test-taking skills, exam questions, math problems, and general water system operations. You will have the chance to take a practice exam and go over the answers.
Credit
4 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

TNC Operations
2025-10-30 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This course is designed for Transient Non-Community (TNC) Water System Operators. No matter what your experience as a water system operator, this course will help you better manage your system. The course will review the following topics: disinfecting your water system (UV and chlorine), sampling procedure and sampling schedules, sanitary survey review, common water system deficiencies, rules and regulations (current and upcoming rules), discussion of seasonal operations, basic site investigations.
For Class 1B operators, this course will fulfill the requirement to obtain 3 continuing education credits prior to renewal of your certification.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Meredith Maskell (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
POSTPONED
This class has been rescheduled to November 20. Find information and register here. (If you were previously registered for October 30, your registration was automatically transferred to November 20.)

Distribution Exam Preparation
2025-10-31 08:30 - 13:00 | Vermont Rural Water Association, 20 Susie Wilson Rd, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
This course is designed as a short review for the Vermont Water Distribution exam. We will review test-taking skills, exam questions, math problems, and general water system operations. You will have the chance to take a practice exam and go over the answers.
Credit
4 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Wastewater Exam (Web-Based Testing)
2025-11-07 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. There are 10 spots available per session. Registration closes two weeks prior to the exam date. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. Payment must be received by the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
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).
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.

Taking the exam:

Log In: the proctor(s) will help you get logged in to the exam on the provided laptop.
Practice Examination: Prior to beginning the examination, you will be given the opportunity to practice taking an examination on the computer. The time you use for this practice examination is NOT counted as part of your examination time or score. When you are comfortable with the computer testing process, you may quit the practice session and begin the timed examination.
Timed Examination: Before beginning the examination, instructions for taking the examination are provided on-screen. The computer monitors the time you spend on the examination. The examination will terminate if you exceed the time allowed. You may click on the “Time” box in the lower menu bar on the screen to monitor your time. A digital clock indicates the time remaining for you to complete the examination. The Time feature may be turned off during the examination.
Questions: Only one examination question is presented at a time. The question number appears in the lower right portion of the screen. Choices of answers to the examination question are identified as A, B, C, or D. You must indicate your choice by either typing in the letter in the response box in the lower left portion of the computer screen or clicking on the option using the mouse. To change your answer, enter a different option by typing in the letter in the response box or by clicking on the option using the mouse. You may change your answer as many times as you wish during the examination time limit.
Navigation: To move to the next question, click on the forward arrow (>) in the lower right portion of the screen. This action will move you forward through the examination question by question. If you wish to review any question or questions, click the backward arrow (<) or use the left arrow key to move backward through the examination.
Unanswered Questions: An examination question may be left unanswered for return later in the examination session. Questions may also be bookmarked for later review by clicking in the blank square to the right of the Time button. Click on the double arrows (>>) to advance to the next unanswered or bookmarked question on the examination. To identify all unanswered and bookmarked questions, repeatedly click on the double arrows (>>). When the examination is completed, the number of examination questions answered is reported. If not all questions have been answered and there is time remaining, return to the examination and answer those questions.
Candidate Comments: During the examination, you may make comments for any question by clicking on the Comment button to the left of the Time button. This opens a dialogue box where comments may be entered. Comments will be reviewed, but individual responses will not be provided.

Computer-Based Wastewater Exam
2025-11-07 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. There are 10 spots available per session. Registration closes two weeks prior to the exam date. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. Payment must be received by the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
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, and pencil. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent, non-programmable, without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
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.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register, along with the Office of Professional Regulation (OPR).

Taking the exam:

Log In: the proctor(s) will help you get logged in to the exam on the provided laptop.
Practice Examination: Prior to beginning the examination, you will be given the opportunity to practice taking an examination on the computer. The time you use for this practice examination is NOT counted as part of your examination time or score. When you are comfortable with the computer testing process, you may quit the practice session and begin the timed examination.
Timed Examination: Before beginning the examination, instructions for taking the examination are provided on-screen. The computer monitors the time you spend on the examination. The examination will terminate if you exceed the time allowed. You may click on the “Time” box in the lower menu bar on the screen to monitor your time. A digital clock indicates the time remaining for you to complete the examination. The Time feature may be turned off during the examination.
Questions: Only one examination question is presented at a time. The question number appears in the lower right portion of the screen. Choices of answers to the examination question are identified as A, B, C, or D. You must indicate your choice by either typing in the letter in the response box in the lower left portion of the computer screen or clicking on the option using the mouse. To change your answer, enter a different option by typing in the letter in the response box or by clicking on the option using the mouse. You may change your answer as many times as you wish during the examination time limit.
Navigation: To move to the next question, click on the forward arrow (>) in the lower right portion of the screen. This action will move you forward through the examination question by question. If you wish to review any question or questions, click the backward arrow (<) or use the left arrow key to move backward through the examination.
Unanswered Questions: An examination question may be left unanswered for return later in the examination session. Questions may also be bookmarked for later review by clicking in the blank square to the right of the Time button. Click on the double arrows (>>) to advance to the next unanswered or bookmarked question on the examination. To identify all unanswered and bookmarked questions, repeatedly click on the double arrows (>>). When the examination is completed, the number of examination questions answered is reported. If not all questions have been answered and there is time remaining, return to the examination and answer those questions.
Candidate Comments: During the examination, you may make comments for any question by clicking on the Comment button to the left of the Time button. This opens a dialogue box where comments may be entered. Comments will be reviewed, but individual responses will not be provided.

Water Treatment: Coagulation
2025-11-12 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)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Corrosion Control
2025-11-13 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This training will focus on distribution system corrosion and methods to combat it. Topics covered include: what is corrosion and what causes it, why some waters are more corrosive than others, problems caused by corrosion, lead and copper rules, and using phosphates and pH adjustment to combat corrosion.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Computer-Based Wastewater Exam
2025-11-14 08:45 - 12:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, 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. There are 10 spots available per session. Registration closes two weeks prior to the exam date. Refunds will not be given for cancellations within two weeks of the exam date. Payment must be received by the exam date. No-shows will be charged the full fee.
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, and pencil. You may bring your own calculator as long as it is silent, non-programmable, without alphabetic keypads or printing capabilities.
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.
Results will be emailed to the email address you provide when you register, along with the Office of Professional Regulation (OPR).

Taking the exam:

Log In: the proctor(s) will help you get logged in to the exam on the provided laptop.
Practice Examination: Prior to beginning the examination, you will be given the opportunity to practice taking an examination on the computer. The time you use for this practice examination is NOT counted as part of your examination time or score. When you are comfortable with the computer testing process, you may quit the practice session and begin the timed examination.
Timed Examination: Before beginning the examination, instructions for taking the examination are provided on-screen. The computer monitors the time you spend on the examination. The examination will terminate if you exceed the time allowed. You may click on the “Time” box in the lower menu bar on the screen to monitor your time. A digital clock indicates the time remaining for you to complete the examination. The Time feature may be turned off during the examination.
Questions: Only one examination question is presented at a time. The question number appears in the lower right portion of the screen. Choices of answers to the examination question are identified as A, B, C, or D. You must indicate your choice by either typing in the letter in the response box in the lower left portion of the computer screen or clicking on the option using the mouse. To change your answer, enter a different option by typing in the letter in the response box or by clicking on the option using the mouse. You may change your answer as many times as you wish during the examination time limit.
Navigation: To move to the next question, click on the forward arrow (>) in the lower right portion of the screen. This action will move you forward through the examination question by question. If you wish to review any question or questions, click the backward arrow (<) or use the left arrow key to move backward through the examination.
Unanswered Questions: An examination question may be left unanswered for return later in the examination session. Questions may also be bookmarked for later review by clicking in the blank square to the right of the Time button. Click on the double arrows (>>) to advance to the next unanswered or bookmarked question on the examination. To identify all unanswered and bookmarked questions, repeatedly click on the double arrows (>>). When the examination is completed, the number of examination questions answered is reported. If not all questions have been answered and there is time remaining, return to the examination and answer those questions.
Candidate Comments: During the examination, you may make comments for any question by clicking on the Comment button to the left of the Time button. This opens a dialogue box where comments may be entered. Comments will be reviewed, but individual responses will not be provided.

Personal Protective Equipment, Ladder, and Electrical Safety
2025-11-18 09:00 - 12:30 | 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 also work on and around electrical equipment at their facilities. This class discusses the electrical safety measures that should be in place at your facility.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Treatment: Filtration Processes
2025-11-19 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)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

TNC Operations
2025-11-20 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This course is designed for Transient Non-Community (TNC) Water System Operators. No matter what your experience as a water system operator, this course will help you better manage your system. The course will review the following topics: disinfecting your water system (UV and chlorine), sampling procedure and sampling schedules, sanitary survey review, common water system deficiencies, rules and regulations (current and upcoming rules), discussion of seasonal operations, basic site investigations.
For Class 1B operators, this course will fulfill the requirement to obtain 3 continuing education credits prior to renewal of your certification.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Meredith Maskell (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Permit Required Confined Space Entry
2025-11-21 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)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Cybersecurity for Drinking Water & Wastewater Operators
2025-12-02 08:00 - 15:30 | Lyndon Public Safety Facility, 316 Main St, Lyndonville, VT, 05851, United States
DescriptionCyber threats are a growing risk for Vermont’s water and wastewater systems, but you don’t need to face them alone. In this interactive, full-day training, experts from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI) will provide insight into the specific cybersecurity risks facing Vermont utilities and equip operators with practical tools to strengthen their defenses.
CISA will walk through the most common vulnerabilities in the water sector and offer straightforward mitigation strategies you can apply right away. The FBI will share the latest intelligence on cyber threats targeting Vermont organizations, including how attackers operate and how you can protect yourself and your utility. Then, NUARI will deliver a training designed to reinforce the role of leadership in managing cyber risks, highlight the operational impact of an incident, and support towns and utilities in improving their cybersecurity readiness. The session will help clarify responsibilities, strengthen internal communication, and build confidence in decision-making before and during a cyber event.
Note: NUARI’s training is funded by DHS/FEMA and is FREE to attend. Participants will also need to register through FEMA’s training platform. The link to that registration can be found here and will also be sent via email to participants upon registering for the training.
Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your utility’s cybersecurity with guidance from national experts—space is limited!
Credit6 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
InstructorsLeah Bogdanowicz (FBI)Adam Gamelin and Gabe Palazzi (CISA)Instructors from Norwich University’s Applied Research Institutes
LunchLunch will be provided for free, sponsored by Pump Control Solutions, LLC and Laramie Water Resources!

Cybersecurity for Drinking Water & Wastewater Operators
2025-12-03 08:00 - 15:30 | Vermont Fire Academy, 93 Davidson Dr, Pittsford, VT, 05763, United States

Model Sewer Use Ordinance (SUO) and Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Guidance
2025-12-04 09:00 - 12:30 | Essex Police Department, 145 Maple Street, 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)
CLASS CANCELLED
This class will be offered again on March 18 in Montpelier. Register here.
