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 800 water and wastewater professionals have taken part in the Utility Management Institute, including 585 UMP recipients.

2025 Class Schedule

_{Utility Management 101}

_{January 22-23, 2025
Kentucky Rural Water Association Office, Bowling Green, KY}

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}

_{March 26-27, 2025
The London Community Center, London, KY}

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 22, 2025
Kentucky Rural Water Association, 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 conjuction with KRWA's Operator EXPO.

_{Utility Finance and Administration}

_{July 23-24, 2025
KY Dam Village State Resort Park, Gilbertsville, KY}

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}

_{September 24-25, 2025
Louisville Water Tower, Louisville, KY}

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}

_{November 5-6, 2025
Morehead Conference Center, Morehead, KY}

The HR functions of any organization are among the most challenging for managers.  This  1 and 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 $795 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 $715 each.

• Member Rate for all six courses: $795
  Students will have two years to complete all six courses at a discounted price.
  
  
• Discounted Member Rate: $715 for multiple participants
  Two or more participants registered from the same utility will be charged a discounted rate of $715 each.

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.}