Michigan Water Academy

 

The Michigan Water Academy ® is designed to complement existing Section training and to supplement state licensure, taking the learner beyond regulatory requirements, helping him/her to demonstrate both skill and judgement. It is the hope that the Academy® can serve as a career progression pathway that helps water professionals to advance within their organization and reach their long-term career goals.

A special thank you to the Michigan Water Academy® Advisory Committee members for their guidance in the creation of the Michigan Water Academy®.

  • Terri Conerway, Great Lakes Water Authority
  • Dave DeGrand, Lansing
  • Bill Fritz, Rochester Hills
  • Wayne Jernberg, Grand Rapids
  • Brian Steglitz, Ann Arbor
WE NEED SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS

The Section is using three approaches to course development: licensing existing courses, partnering with training companies, and developing original content. No matter how the course is development, Michigan Section members will review the program agendas to ensure the highest degree of applicability for Michigan water professionals. This takes a host of volunteer experts willing to commit their time and talent to helping the Section develop these new training options. If you're willing to help, please contact staff.

 

WE ALSO NEED TRAINERS

The Section is also looking for experienced professionals to conduct these trainings. Qualifications vary by course but all instructors must have a minimum of five years in the water sector. Each trainer will be required to complete a Trainer Onboarding program that helps ensure an understanding of adult learning best practices as well as a high degree of training proficiency. If you're interested, please contact Executive Director Bonnifer Ballard.

Safety is an integral part of every technical class. The Academy® strives to create a safety culture and instill that culture in its learners.

 

INTRODUCTORY LEVEL
  • Basic Water Works
  • Basic Customer Service
  • Basic People Skills

 

WATER APPRENTICE LEVEL
  • Water Treatment Basics
  • Safe Drinking Water Act
  • Water Distribution Basics
  • Intermediate Customer Service
  • Water Sector Technology
  • Career Planning

Upon completion of this level, learner receives a certificate of completion and would be prepared to sit for state licensing exams.

 

WATER PROFESSIONAL LEVEL
  • Source Water Management
  • Water Treatment Advanced
  • Water Distribution Advanced
  • Supervision and Management
  • Conflict Management and Resolution
  • Communications for the Water Professional Basic
  • Advanced Customer Service
  • Security and Emergency Planning

Upon completion of this level, learner would be eligible to apply for the Water Professional credential.*

 

MASTER WATER PROFESSIONAL LEVEL
  • Environmental Awareness
  • Board and Community Relations
  • Communications for the Water Professional Advanced
  • Rate Setting and Financial Managements
  • Asset Management
  • Workforce Planning
  • Strategic Decision Making
  • Leadership for the Water Professional
  • Technology in Water Management

Upon completion of this level, learner would be eligible to apply for the Master Water Professional credential.*

Not all classes are available yet; many are still in development. *Credential not yet available.