The five-week Water Operator Workforce Ready Certificate Program was developed by WaterWorkforce in collaboration with the College of Engineering/Civil Engineering department & College of Professional and Global Education (CPGE) at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP).  The Program — taught onsite at the Cal Poly CPGE campus in Pomona — prepares students for entry-level water/wastewater operator positions and the WaterWorkforce apprenticeship program. Dedicated students will attain comprehensive water systems knowledge, work-ready skills, and industry-recognized certifications. Additionally, students will have job placement opportunities in the water and wastewater industries. Entry-level wage is $22.50-$27.00 per hour, and the average wage full-time in California is $57,669 per year.

Participants will gain a thorough understanding of essential industry skills including:

• System operations
• Tools and equipment
• Safety procedures
• Installation and repairs
• Utility fundamentals
• Water math
• National Incident Management System (NIMS) principles
• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) operations
• Work readiness and professional skills (soft skills)