Utility Management Institute

The Utility Management Institute (UMI) offers training to managers and those interested in becoming managers of both water and wastewater utilities and to other utility personnel seeking an in-depth understanding of both water and wastewater utilities. Through a set of six courses, the graduates of the program gain practical training in the field of utility management. Completion of all six courses in this progressive management training earns the graduate the designation of Utility Management Professional (UMP).

Over 860 water and wastewater professionals have taken part in the Utility Management Institute, including 623 UMP recipients.

2026 Class Schedule

                                                                 Dates and locations coming soon!

                                                     New pricing for 2026 listed at bottom of page.

_{Utility Management 101}

_{Date and location coming soon}
 

This introductory 1 & 1/2 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.

_{Utility Organization, Regulation, & Law}

_{Date and location coming soon}

This 1 & 1/2 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.

_{Modern Technology and Utility Management}

_{May 14, 2026
Hardin County Fairgrounds, Glendale, KY}

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. This session will be held in conjunction with KRWA's Operator EXPO.

_{Utility Finance and Administration}

_{Date and location coming soon}

This 1 & 1/2 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.

_{Public Relations in Utility Management}

_{Date and location coming soon}
 

Until recently, public relations have been the most ignored aspect of public utility operations. This 1 & 1/2 day course explores the newfound 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.

_{Human Resource Management For Utilities}

_{Date and location coming soon}
 

The HR functions of any organization are among the most challenging for managers.  This  1 & 1/2 day course includes sections on personnel policies, hiring, and firing, compensation and benefits, motivation and training, dealing with experts, and employee evaluation.

Registration

When registering for all six courses at $850 students will have two years to complete the program. Once students have registered for all six courses, they should register for each individual class they plan to attend for the year (Current UMI Student - FREE).  If you prefer, classes may be taken when convenient and charged at an individual rate. For additional savings, register two or more participants from the same utility at $800 each.

• Member Rate for all six courses: $850
  Students will have two years to complete all six courses at the bundled rate (all six courses). 
  
  
• Discounted Member Rate: $800 each for multiple participants
  Two or more participants registered from the same utility will be charged the bundled rate (all six  courses).

• Discounted Government Rate (DOW, ADDs, PSC, etc.): $800 for participants at bundled rate

Member Rate for Individual Courses

To register for any of our upcoming UMI events, please visit our Training page for registration details. Class size is limited. For additional information please contact the KRWA office at 270-843-2291 or j.cole@krwa.org.

_{**No Operator Certification hours are offered by the UMI.}