The Utility Management Institute was developed in partnership with the Center for Water Resource Studies at Western Kentucky University. Funded by USEPA through the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996, the UMI has been in continuous operation since 1999.

The UMI offers training to managers and those interested in becoming managers of both water and wastewater utilities. Through a set of six courses, the graduates of the program gain practical university-based training in the field of utility management. Completion of all six courses in this progressive management training earns the graduate the professional designation of UMP (Utility Management Professional). As of today, 395 water and wastewater professionals have taken part in the Utility Management Institute, including 199 UMP graduates.

To register for any of our upcoming UMI events, please visit our Training page for registration details. All UMI courses are limited to the first 40 registrants. No Operator Certification hours are offered by the UMI.

The courses in the Utility Management Institute include:

Utility Management 101

This introductory 3 day course provides participants with an excellent foundation of utility management knowledge. Includes sections covering the historical background of water and wastewater service; drinking water and clean water regulations; utility organizational structures; basics in finance, personnel, and public relations; and the board/manager relationship. Normally, a prerequisite to enrollment in other courses in the Utility Management Services.

Utility Organization, Regulation, & Law

This 2 day course provides in depth instruction on utility organization and structure in Kentucky and nationally, sections on the SDWA and CWA, state agencies, trade organizations, and other laws affecting utility operations. Participants will also explore how Kentucky measures up to the rest of the United States in regards to utility service and public health protection.

Utility Finance and Administration

This 2 day course offers sections on financial planning, budgeting, and reporting. Discussions include capacity development and utility rates, purchasing, cost of service considerations, uniform systems of accounts, and financing utility improvements and expansions.

Human Resource Management For Utilities

The HR functions of any organization are among the most challenging for managers This 2 day course includes sections on personnel policies, hiring and firing, compensation and benefits, motivation and training, dealing with experts, and employee evaluation.

Modern Technology and Utility Management

Technology allows every industry to make huge improvements in service and efficiency, if used appropriately. This 1 day course examines the latest technological advancements in the water and wastewater industry including: GIS/GPS, computer advancements, new treatment technologies, SCADA and telemetry, and security issues as they relate to technology.

Public Relations in Utility Management

Until recently, public relations have been the most ignored aspect of public utility operations. This 1 day course explores the new found importance of fostering positive relationships with both internal and external customers, governmental relations, and dealing with the media. All with the goal of improving the perception of others by telling the success stories of modern utilities.

The Utility Management Institute, created with funding secured by Senator Mitch McConnell, is administered through USEPA and Western Kentucky University.

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