• Introductory Session: Course Orientation & Why Water Efficiency Matters
• Module 1: Introduction to Water Systems and Water Efficiency & Conservation Strategies
• Module 2: Key Terminology, Metrics, and Water Use by Sector
• Module 3: Water Use Regulations, Policies, and Rates
• Module 4: Conservation Planning for Drought, Emergencies, Climate Change
• Module 5: Translating Data to Action
• Closing Session: Reflection, Career Pathways, and Next Steps

• November 16: Application Opens
• January 15: Application Closes
• February 1: Candidate Informed
• February 22: Participant confirmation deadline, unclaimed spots offered to waitlisted applicants
• March 18 – June 10: Program Dates
• August 3-6: Optional special event for participants at Water Efficiency & Conservation Symposium

Asynchronous tasks will be due before and after the program dates.

This 12-week program includes:

• Seven two-hour synchronous meetings
• Six asynchronous assignments requiring approximately 3–4 hours each
• Pre- and post-course assessments and a program evaluation requiring approximately 30–60 minutes each

The total expected time commitment is approximately 35–40 hours.

To successfully complete the course, participants must attend at least six of the seven synchronous meetings, complete all asynchronous assignments, and submit the pre- and post-course assessments and program evaluation. Meetings and assignments will alternate throughout the program.

2027 Pilot Program Fee: $350

The 2027 pilot program is available exclusively to AWE members at a reduced introductory rate of $350. Fees for future offerings will reflect the full cost of delivering the training. Future programs may also be open to non-members at a higher rate.

• Question: Is this program an accredited certification? Could it become accredited retroactively?
• Answer: Participants who meet the program requirements will receive a certificate of completion, rather than an accredited professional certification. There are no plans for retroactive accreditation, however developing a national certification for water efficiency and conservation professionals may be developed in the future.

• Question: How does this training differ from the CA-NV AWWA Water Use Efficiency Practitioner (WUEP) certification?
• Answer:  AWE’s Fundamentals training builds foundational knowledge and practical skills for professionals across North America who are new to water efficiency and conservation or whose roles only partly involve this work. The WUEP certification was developed for practitioners in California and Nevada and assesses professional competency at three levels through examinations.

• Question: Is this training only for utility employees?
• Answer: No. The training is designed for professionals across sectors. Participants will explore their local water systems, rates, and conservation strategies and consider how these topics relate to their own roles and organizations.

• Question: How will participants access training materials and submit assignments?
• Answer: Google Classroom will serve as the central platform for accessing training materials and submitting assignments.

• Question: Is the training relevant to Canadian participants, particularly the sessions on legislation and policy?
• Answer: Yes. The training takes a North American perspective, although some examples and case studies will be from the United States. Participants will explore how regulations and policies apply to their own local water systems and water use.

• Questions: Are all required meetings virtual?
• Answer: Yes. All required meetings will be virtual. Participants will also be encouraged to attend AWE’s Water Efficiency & Conservation Symposium in Chicago, but attendance is optional.

• Question: Will presentations be live or recorded and completed independently?
• Answer: All presentations will be delivered live during scheduled virtual sessions and will include opportunities for discussion and collaboration.

• Question: Is there a limit on participants from a single organization?
• Answer: The pilot program is capped at 30 participants. Depending on demand, AWE may limit participation from individual organizations to allow a broader range of organizations to participate.