College-level water conservation training now available.

As water concerns increase, the value of water conservation is better understood, especially when coupled with energy efficiency and sustainability. Utilities dealing with both water and energy are keenly aware of the challenges and opportunities. One challenge is finding and training technically

The new Water Conservation Technician AAS degree and professional development workshops at Lane Community College (LCC) in Eugene, Ore., will fill this niche. LCC has provided energy efficiency and renewable energy training for years through the Northwest Energy Education Institute (NEEI). NEEI already provides the Residential Energy Auditor/Inspector training for NWPPA, and it will soon offer specialized training for water conservation jobs for municipalities, utilities, and private firms. Complementing the Water Program is a partnership with the Pacific Northwest Section--American Water Works Association (PNWS-AWWA) who will soon offer a professional certification.

Water conservation is gaining traction. According to the California Air Resources Board, "water conservation has much stronger economic and environmental benefits than had typically been recognized" and water efficiency is a "way to save water and energy and help reduce climate change."

In the fall 2008 term, LCC will admit students to the Water Conservation Technician AAS two-year degree program, offered in parallel with the successful Energy Management Programs set amidst sustainability initiatives. Graduates will be prepared for jobs ranging from water conservation technician to water efficiency manager. A water conservation coordinator can earn between $36,000 and $53,000 per year, but graduates must consider the entire U.S. for jobs. Program graduates will be able to:

* Evaluate water use patterns

* Develop, implement, and assess conservation programs

* Perform public outreach to a broad audience

* Recommend water efficiency techniques

* Understand the regulatory context and code trends

* Develop knowledge of water resource economics

* Understand multiple stressors on water

* Perform systems analysis

* Comprehend the links between water and energy

A sampling of core courses include: Botany; Water Policy; Water Conservation: Residential; Water Resource Economics; GIS; and Program Development. General education and extensive field work are required. Because graduates will gain a competitive advantage in the field, employers save time and money training new and seasonal employees. This degree is perfect for those seeking a career transition, enhanced opportunities, or novices new to the field.

Experts already in the water conservation field who want recognition of existing know-ledge, skills, and abilities, or who want to brush up on specific topics, may take a certification prep workshop or attend core classes (permission required). Customized training is also available. These professional development opportunities are available for practitioners in the field.

Nearly every industry utilizes professional certification because it demonstrates competency, commitment to the field, and enhances job advancement. Fall 2008 practitioners may attend a workshop to prepare them for the PNWS-AWWA Water Conservation Certification tests. Certification requires attendance at the workshop, passing a written exam, proof of practical skills, and work experience in water conservation. The training will be provided by LCC and the certification will be granted by the PNWS-AWWA. Certification is aligned with EPA WaterSense.

Future growth of the Water Program is based on a multi-state regional network of community colleges through distance learning. Students may attend workshop classes not only in Eugene, but also at partner colleges. Distance learning technology, or two-way real-time video conferencing, allows training to be offered in multiple locations simultaneously and provides partner colleges with a cost-effective program to attract new students.

In conclusion, the new Water Program at LCC along with the PNWS-AWWA partnership provides training and certification and opportunities to embrace water efficiency. Finally, the water industry has professional level training and certification that will help us all meet our conservation goals better!

Tammie Stark, M.A., is with the NEEI Energy & Water Programs at Lane Community College. For more information about partnering, underwriting, or training, please contact her at starkt@lanecc.edu or (541) 463-5451. For certification information, please contact Jill Hoyenga at jill.hoyenga@ eweb.eugene.or.us or (541) 984-4706.