Course Descriptions
Daytime
Class D & C Water Distribution Systems/Chemical Feed Applications (15 hrs)
General design, operation, and maintenance procedures for water distribution systems. Topics include pumps and hydraulics, water mains, water services, hydrants, meters, valves, storage, cross connections, regulations, sampling, and related math. General design, operation and maintenance procedures for wells and chemical feed installations. Topics include pumps, chlorination/chloramination, fluoridation, corrosion control treatment, sequestration, sampling and reporting, and all topic related math.
Class B Water Groundwater Treatment/Filtration/Ion Exchange Softening (15 hrs)
General design, operation, and maintenance of groundwater treatment plants. Topics include iron and manganese control/removal, filtration, and topic related math. General design, operation and maintenance procedures for ion exchange softening and related math. Class D/C material is also covered as a review.
Class A Water Surface Water Treatment/Lime Softening/Membrane Filtration (15 hrs)
Surface water treatment topics include taste and odor control, clarification, jar testing, membrane filtration, and related math and chemistry. Surface water and lime softening with related math. Class D/C/B material is also covered as a review.
Water and Wastewater Continuing Education
(7.5 hours)
This class is designed to provide the working operator with continuing education to maintain your state certification. The morning session will cover chlorination, disinfection byproducts, taste and odors, and filtration. The afternoon sessions will address troubleshooting for wastewater operations, including lagoons, treatment systems, and nutrient removal.
A/B Water Short Course
(22.5 hours)
This three day training session is designed for operators preparing for the Illinois Class B or A water certification exam. Includes a short review of Class C and D material and related math.
- Class A Stresses surfaces water treatment: lime-soda softening, taste and odor control, clarification, lab, rules and regulation and associated math.
- Class B Stresses ground water treatment: wells, filtration, ion exchange, oxidation and associated math.
If there are enough eligible participants, the IEPA will give the certification exam at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 10 in Bloomington. You must apply to take the exam with the IEPA office in Springfield at least 30 days in advance.
Class A/B Water Operations Math
(7.5 hours) The A/B water math is designed as a 7.5 hour stand alone class. Basic math is reviewed. Math relative to Class A/B topics include Filtration, Ion Exchange Softening, Jar Testing, Chemical Feeding, Lime Softening and Clarification Math.
Class D/C Water Math Review
(2 hours) General overview ot aid in preparing for Class D/Class C drinking water certification. Topics include general math, unit conversions, solution percentages, perimeter/circumference, area, volume, detention time, well math, pump math, pounds formula, solution formula, chlorination math and fluoridation math.
Advanced Wastewater Treatment Processes and Nutrient Removal
(15 hours)
A two-day workshop which covers recent developments in the wastewater treatment field. Subjects covered include Sequencing Batch Reactors, Integrated Fixed Film Systems, Membrane Bioreactors, Nutrient Removal Systems (biological and chemical), Autothermal thermophilic aerobic digestion, and Process Control used for these processes.
Class 1, 2, 3, 4 Wastewater Operations Math
(7.5 hours)
Emphasis is on solving math problems used at wastewater treatment plants and the certification exams. Basic math will be covered with emphasis on formulas and problem solving. Math for activated sludge, aerobic and anaerobic digesters, rotating biological contactors (RBC's), trickling filters, and lagoon processes are covered. An ERTC math book and a calculator will be ;provided. This course is recommended for all certification levels.
Class 4 Wastewater Math Review
(2 hours)
General overview to aid in preparing for Class 4 wastewater certification. Topics include general math, unit conversions, percent removal, perimeter/circumference, area, volume, detention time, velocity, pounds formula, population equivalents, hydraulic loading of ponds, and organic loading of ponds.
Class K Industrial Education
(7.5 hours)
This course is designed to assist in preparing for the Class K certification exam. Theory of wastewater treatment, sludge disposal, solids handling, removal efficiency and math. Topics include monitoring requirements, laboratory techniques, rules and regulations, record keeping and safety considerations. This course is not industry site specific put intended to prepare the applicant on a more general format.
Class A Water Day 1
(Surface Water - Clarification)
(7.5 hours)
Surface water treatment topics include clarification, jar testing, taste and odor control, membrane filtration and related math and chemistry.
Class A Water Day 2
(Surface Water - Lime Softening - Membrane Filtration)
(7.5 hours)
Surface water and lime softening are covered with related math and chemistry. The second half of day two covers class D/C/B material as a review
Class B Water Day 1
(Ground Water Treatment and Filtration)
(7.5 hours)
Ground water treatment is covered in this day with related math and chemistry. Ground water topics include water quality, oxidation, iron and manganese control, filtration, sampling and reporting.
Class B Water Day 2
(Ion Exchange Softening)
(7.5 hours)
Ground water treatment topics include ion exchange softening, with related math and chemistry, process waste disposal, and electrical maintenance. The second half of day two covers class D/C material as a review
Class D/C Water Day 1
(Distribution Systems)
(7.5 hours)
General design, operation and maintenance procedures for water distribution systems. Topics include pumps and hydraulics, water mains, water services, hydrants, meters, valves, storage, cross connections, regulations, sampling, and related math.
Class D/C Water Day 2
(Chemical Feed applications)
(7.5 hours)
General design, operation and maintenance procedures for wells and chemical feed installations. Topics incude pumps, chlorination/chloramination, fluoridation, corrosion control treatment, sequestration. sampling and reporting, and all topic related math.
Cross Connection Control
(24 hours)
(23.5 hours/operators)
Includes demonstration of inspection and testing procedures for reduced pressure zone (RPZ) and double check valve backflow preventers. Each participant is provided opportunities to perform inspection and testing procedures. To successfully complete the workshop, participants must pass the written exam and properly perform hands-on inspection and testing procedures on RPZ and double check valve backflow preventers.
There is only one chance to pass each section of the exam (written and hands-on). Failure of either section will require the individual to retake the entire course again later at FULL COST. Licensed plumbers will be eligible for IEPA approval to inspect and test RPZ and double check valve backflow preventers upon successful course completion. Certified water operators are eligible for a limited IEPA approval.
Illinois Backflow Prevention Symposium Plumber’s Continuing Education (6 hrs)
Join us in Bloomington for our Backflow Prevention Symposium. Topics will include regulatory updates from IDPH and IEPA, lead service line replacements, Illinois Plumbing Code, CCCDI recertification, confined space and excavation safety, and leak detection technologies. Lunch is included with each registration. A complimentary vendor reception will also occur the evening before the event.
Plumbers Continuing Education(4 hours)
This course satisfies the Illinois Plumbing Code Licensing Law which requires all Illinois licensed plumbers to get 4.0 hours of continuing education annually in order to renew their Illinois Plumbing License and keep their Cross Connection Control license.
Pumps and Pumping
(15 hours)
This two day course covers the basic skills required for maintenance and troubleshooting of Pumps and Motors in a water or wastewater plant. Topics include safety, use of meters and test equipment for diagnosing motor starter and contactor operation, lift and pump station controls and operation. Also covered are single and three phase motors, pressure and flow sensing devices. Detailed information relative to pump design and operation combined with hands-on examples and exercises.
Class 1 & 2 Wastewater Operations
(15 hours)
This course deals with the skills needed to operate, facilitate process control, and troubleshoot different types of treatment plant units. To include: conventional activated sludge, sequencing batch reactors, and oxidation ditches. Applied mathematics and process control calculations are stressed. Physical, chemical, and laboratory analysis methods are discussed. Also included are nitrogen and phosphorous removal techniques and Class 1 and 2 wastewater math.
Class 3 & 4 Wastewater Operations
(15 hours)
Process control and troubleshooting of fixed film units and lagoons are covered. Skills needed to operate both types of operations are covered. Class 3 certification exam materials are also covered. Sources and characteristics of wastewater are taught. Topics include biological treatment principles, process control, normal operation and preventative maintenance for collection systems, preliminary treatment devices , primary treatment devices, activated sludge and disinfection systems. Federal and state laws, rules, and regulations are also discussed.
Collection System Operation 1
(15 hours)
This two day course covers the basic skills required for maintenance and troubleshooting of collection system operation. Topics include safety, use of meters and test equipment for diagnosing confined space entry. Pump operation and lift station controls are discussed. Also covered are single and three phase motors, pressure and flow sensing devices. This course will be a good primer for the operator seeking a collection system certification from the IEPA.
Wastewater Operator Short School
(32 hours)
An intensive training session to develop skills specific to process control and operation of Class 4, 3, 2 and 1 plants. All aspects of plant operations, process control tests and their interpretation, process control math, safety reports and records for each specific class are covered. On Friday afternoon, the IEPA wastewater certification exam is given for eligible students.
- Class 4: Stresses stabilization ponds, collection systems and chlorination Systems. Class 4 certification exam materials are reviewed.
- Class 3: Stresses trickling filters and RBC units. Class 3 certification exam materials are reviewed.
- Class 2/1 : Activated sludge treatment plants with aerobic and anaerobic sludge Digesters are stressed. Class 2 and 1 exam materials are reviewed.
Note to students taking Wastewater Short School:
YOU MUST MAKE APPLICATION DIRECTLY TO IEPA/DPWS TO MAKE THE CERTIFICATION EXAM ON FRIDAY
IEPA Wastewater Certification Program - (217) 782-9720
Download exam applications from IEPA.
Evening
Utility Management - New
Proper management of utility systems will be taught. Topics include planning (essentials, time and stress, emergency response, and future considerations), organizing (concepts, working with labor unions, meetings, and record keeping), staffing ( job descriptions, selection/interview process, orientation, training, and performance reviews), leading (changes, diversity, workplace violence, harassment, and conflicts), and managing (culture, discipline, working with agencies and city boards, and customer service).
Activated Sludge and Nutrient Removal
This course deals with modes of operation, process control testing, operating strategies and troubleshooting of the activated sludge process (conventional activated sludge, sequence batch reactor, fixed media systems). Aerobic digestion, anaerobic sludge digestion, and solids handling systems ( drying beds, lagoons and land application). Nutrient removal and advanced laboratory practices will also be discussed.
Advanced Wastewater Treatment
This course deals with modes of operation, process control testing, operating strategies and troubleshooting of the activated sludge process (Conventional A.S., SBR, ABF), fixed media systems, aerobic and anaerobic sludge digestion and solids handling systems (drying beds, lagoons and land application).
Collections Systems Part Two
This course is a continuation of Volume One (Sacramento) and expanders into the areas of lift station operation, equipment maintenance, sewer rehabilitation, and safety. Administrative responsibilities will be covered along with capacity assurance, management, operation and maintenance.
Basic Wastewater Treatment (Class 4)
Sources and characteristics of wastewater are taught. Topics include biological treatment principles, process control, normal operation and preventative maintenance of collection systems, preliminary treatment devices, primary treatment devices, stabilization ponds and disinfection systems. Federal and state laws, rules and regulations are also discussed.
Basic Water Supply
This course is an introduction to water supply covering Class D and C operations. Topics include wells, chlorination, fluoridation, chemical treatment, distribution systems, pumps, sampling, operating reports, water quality and related math.
Class B & A Water Supply
This course is intended to assist in preparing for the Class B and A certification exams. Ground water treatment, ion exchange softening, surface water treatment and lime softening are covered with math and chemistry. Topics include ground water quality, oxidation, iron and manganese jar testing, sampling and operation reports.
Intermediate Wastewater Treatment (Class 3)
This second course in wastewater operations deals with modes of operation, process control testing, operating strategies and troubleshooting of attached growth systems (trickling filters & rotating biological contactors), and aerobic / anaerobic sludge digestion and solids handling systems (drying beds, lagoons, and land application.)
Virtual Wastewater Class Offerings
Instrumentation and SCADA
The use of insrumentation such as flow meters, online analyzers, and other sensors used to monitor thr operation of a wastewater reclamation facility will be covered. Calibration and maintenance will also be discussed, along with the integration of this equipment into a SCADA system.
Wastewater Management, Regulations, and Communications
This 2-hour online session deals with the basic management skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage a wastewater facility. It will include basic financial planning, employee relations, and communications skills. It will also consider governmental regulations and deadlines that must be considered as a wastewater system manager.
Activated Sludge Process Control
This 2-hour online session deals with general design, operation, and maintenance of activated sludge treatment systems. System differences, process control, laboratory testing, maintenance of equipment, and reporting requirements will be discussed.
Nutrient Removal
This 2-hour online session will introduce the processes used of biological nutrient removal and chemical nutrient removal. It will include processes widely used at this time such as the Bardenpho Process, sequencing batch reactors, and countercurrent aeration. It will also deal with newer processes such as Anammox. Control of chemical addition for phosphorus will also be covered.
Sludge Treatment and Disposal
This 2-hour online session will include the operation of both anaerobic and aerobic digestion systems including auto-thermic aerobic digestion. It will also discuss alternative sludge stabilization techniques including lime stabilization and composting. It will also deal with equipment used for the thickening, dewatering, and land application of wastewater sludge.
Wastewater Lagoons
This 2-hour course includes biological treatment principles, process control, normal operation, and preventative maintenance on wastewater lagoon systems. Rules and regulations are also discussed.
Pumps, Maintenance, and Electrical
This 2-hour online session covers general knowledge of pumps, maintenance, and electrical principles, with an emphasis on their applications in wastewater systems.
Wastewater Laboratory Procedures
A 2-hour review of proper laboratory procedures for the purposes of process control at a wastewater treatment plant and reporting on an NPDES Discharge Monitoring Report. Examples of procedures covered include pH, BOD, dissolved oxygen, total suspended solids, etc.
Fixed Film Treatment
This 2-hour virtual seminar reviews trickling filters, fixed film, and moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs). Topics include modes of operation, operating strategies, and troubleshooting.
Advanced Wastewater Treatment
This 2-hour online session will cover the activated sludge process to include modes of operation, process control testing, operating strategies, and troubleshooting. Nutrient removal will also be discussed.
Class 4 Wastewater Math Review
This is a 2-hour general overview to aid in preparing for Class 4 wastewater certification. Topics include general math, unit conversions, percent removal, perimeter/circumference, area, volume, detention time, velocity, pounds formula, population equivalents, hydraulic loading of ponds, and organic loading of ponds.
Collection Systems, Preliminary, and Primary Treatment
This 2-hour online session will emphasize general design, operation, and maintenance of collection systems (including lift stations) will be emphasized. General design, operation, and maintenance of preliminary and primary treatment equipment will also be discussed.
