I remember when certification applications were paper documents that had to be mailed, faxed or hand-delivered by a hard deadline well before the scheduled exams so a team of subject matter experts could review, in one or two days, every application for that particular exam cycle. The correct number of paper tests for each category and class then had to be ordered from ABC, the company that provides the certification exams used by Colorado. Approved applicants took paper exams administered at specific locations on specific dates during two or three annual exam cycles. After passing the exams, operators still needed to pay a processing fee before their operator certificates would be issued. The whole process took months.
The CCWP portal streamlined the application process enormously. The Water and Wastewater Facility Operators Certification Board’s (board) vision to improve customer service to operators by way of the CCWP portal turned out to be providential when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Because everything could be done electronically, interruptions to Colorado’s certification of operators were relatively minor. This was not the case in many other states.
I have great respect for the individuals who have served, and those who currently serve, on the board. Through their efforts, reasonable and clear certification requirements have been set forth in Regulation 100. Additional information for consistent implementation of the certification requirements are provided in the board’s policy and guidance documents. The board has ensured that the standards for certification are high enough to protect public health and the environment, while flexible enough to accommodate a broad spectrum of candidates through the multiple options and substitutions allowed to meet education and experience requirements.
I have a high regard for the staff of the Colorado Water Quality Control Division, the board office staff, and the board’s counsel from the Attorney General’s office. From the top down, serious efforts are made to keep everyone’s focus on the primary goal: the protection of public health and the environment. I have enjoyed working in an organization that recognizes and rewards integrity, commitment, hard work, dedication, and professionalism.
I have also enjoyed working with the CCWP office staff. These individuals excel in providing outstanding customer service. Since the launch of the CCWP portal, they have identified and resolved a myriad of issues. Thanks to their efforts, the portal now works better than the original design.
For the certified operator community and the owners/administrators of treatment facilities, I have nothing but admiration. You are on the front lines of efforts to provide safe drinking water to consumers and clean water for discharge into the environment. Most of the time there is no public recognition for the work you do, but we would be in a world of hurt without you.
A few years ago, I made the decision to become a certified water treatment operator. It was instructive to go through the application and testing process. It certainly gave me a better understanding of what the program asks of candidates. In preparation for the class D water exam, I took several courses available through the course catalog. Without exception, the course providers were dedicated individuals, many of them certified operators, who were committed to my success in passing the certification exam. Some stayed after a classroom event to tutor participants who needed a little extra coaching. All were patient with questions and helpful when something didn’t make sense.
It has been my honor and pleasure to work with the many stakeholders of this program. Thank you all for the work you do and the way you do it.
➽ Nancy Horan, Facility and Operator Outreach and Certification Board Liaison
