Our industry and our workforce are changing. Baby boomers are retiring at a rapid rate, creating a gap in experienced leaders. The 24/7 accessibility to information creates a demand for instant service, transparency, and accountability. Our required water/wastewater licensing system certifies that utility professionals have acquired a level of knowledge, but does not address demonstrated competency. Also, required licensing exams do not address skills needed to serve as an effective leader. There are also vital skill areas that do not currently have a formal certification or licensing system, making it difficult to determine a potential employee’s attained level of knowledge.

In response to these issues, NC AWWA-WEA consulted with industry experts and North Carolina utility managers to develop The Academy for Water Professional Development (The Academy). The Academy provides a structured and specialized training and certification program for water professionals to demonstrate competency at defined levels through completion of courses and passing of comprehensive exams. The Academy delivers a demonstrated return on investment as employees move through a certification track, and will increase the pool of qualified candidates available for supervisory-level positions. Completion of the Academy levels and ladders (or industry specialization areas) gives you a quantifiable method to compare employee’s skills and development.

You are invited to attend an information session on the Academy hosted during our Annual Conference on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 from 9:00am – 10:00am in room 201 of the Raleigh Convention Center. REGISTRATION for the Annual Conference is NOT REQUIRED. This meeting is open everyone, and we are inviting you as a decision maker for your utility. We encourage you to bring other key personnel involved with making training decisions. The presentation will provide a more in-depth explanation of the Academy and give you an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback. If you are unable to join us in Raleigh, we would be happy to set-up a presentation and meeting at your utility.

To RSVP to the November presentation, ask questions about the Academy, or if you would like to set-up a presentation at your utility, please contact Nicole Banks, NC AWWA-WEA Membership & Communications Director at nbanks@ncsafewater.org or (919) 784-9030 x1004.