Many industries have special credentials that are widely accepted as marks of excellence or accomplishment.

In finance it’s certified public accountant. In consulting it’s professional engineer. In corporate management, it’s master of business administration. In my former profession, there were two credentials: accredited in public relations and certified business communicator.

Letters after the name don’t necessarily mean someone is exceptionally competent. They do mean the person cares enough to have studied to learn the ins and outs of the industry and pass a challenging exam. And so they tend to get noticed by prospective employers. They tend to be held by a minority of practitioners, and so make their holders stand out.

If you’re interested in taking on bigger responsibilities at another utility, or stepping up where you are, there are credentials you can earn in the water and wastewater industry — marks of dedication and capability that go beyond your state license level. Because, let’s face it, there are many operators with top-tier state certification.

Broad spectrum

Water Professionals International offers Professional Operator credentials from Class I through Class IV for water treatment, water distribution, wastewater collection and wastewater treatment.

These credentials enable operators to join a community of mentors and peers, grow within the profession, show commitment to public and environmental health, and increase job mobility. It can take as little as a few weeks to earn the credential, according to WPI.

The PO program grows with you as you gain experience and advance professionally. Many PO designees attain PO credentials in multiple disciplines or class levels as they move through their careers.

In addition to exams, the credentials have general education and operating experience requirements. To qualify for Class III or IV, applicants must document 24 months of direct responsible charge experience, which is described as responsibility for system process and control decisions and system integrity. Find out more at gowpi.org.

Focus on wastewater

For wastewater operators specifically, the University of Florida’s Training, Research and Education for Environmental Operations Center offers a new Certified Professional Operator credential.

It’s designed to train operators in the foundational concepts of wastewater operations. Participants have three years to complete the program, which requires core courses in Process Control of Advanced Waste Treatment Plants, Microbiology of Activated Sludge, Process Control Laboratory Operations, and Activated Sludge Process Control and Troubleshooting, plus one of seven electives.

The credential is especially suited for operators interested in leadership and in mentoring others in their organizations or in the industry at large, such as through training provided by industry associations. Learn more at treeo.ufl.edu/waterwastewater/wcpo.

Industry service

Speaking of associations, involvement in these organizations is another good way to burnish a résumé. You can demonstrate career dedication not just by becoming a member of a state, regional or national association, but by taking on special assignments and leadership roles.

One way to stand out is to present a paper at an association conference. Another is to serve on, or eventually chair, a committee focused on your specific area of interest. Then there’s the possibility of moving up the ranks from board members, to treasurer, to secretary, to vice president and president.

If you aspire to a role like plant manager or director of utilities, service in your association’s executive ranks inherently demonstrates interest in and capacity for leadership.

Move on up

It’s no secret that many experienced water professionals are aging out of their roles and retiring. That’s a challenge for communities and utilities. It’s also an opportunity for younger operators.

Higher-level and leadership roles are opening up as longtime professionals move on. Extra credentials and industry service are marks of excellence that can prepare you to step and make you more attractive to those with the power to hire you.