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Water and Wastewater Organizations

Stay abreast of industry issues, news and trends by joining water and wastewater organizations
By Tai G., Writer If you own a company in the water treatment industry, you would do well to partner with water and wastewater associations to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from all company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.
 

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, wastewater groups may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with an onsite wastewater association, remember the following:

1. Make sure the wastewater management association you're interested in is credible. Check the Better Business Bureau or other industry accreditations.

2. Many organizations don’t stipulate membership for certification.

3. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

Become a member of an accredited wastewater treatment association

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional service, product and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.
Try: Member benefits at the Water and Wastewater Equipment Manufacturers Association include training programs, networking opportunities, and industry support. The National Rural Water Association also offers technical assistance and legislative representation as part of its benefits package.

Take advantage of certification opportunities provided by wastewater groups

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs; in addition to industry certifications.
Try: The Alantic States Rural Water & Wastewater Association provides training opportunities for those who want careers as water and wastewater operators, public works employees and public officials. Educational opportunities at the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association include the installer academy and other continuing education opportunities.

Find water management services organizations that maintain active web forums

The forum on an industry organization's website can be a great source of support. Forums are a real-time communication opportunity. Any business with a question or concern can raise it in a forum and receive up-to-date responses from a variety of experts. Check to see that forum discussions have current activity before you join.
Try: Water and Wastewater.com and the American Water Works Association both offer online forums so you can discuss industry issues with your association peers.

• Networking is a great business tool. Make sure you're stocked with business cards so you can market yourself and your company to your waste water trade association peers.