Choose education / Connect people / Empower people

When we move forward together, the success of California’s water infrastructure takes care of itself.

Success: Desire, Determination and Support

We offer comprehensive training programs for water and wastewater operators, managers, and board members. With personalized learning experiences tailored to your needs, we aim to provide a seamless and efficient journey towards your goals.

Join us today and experience firsthand the transformative power of our training programs. Embrace your desire for success and let us support you on your journey.

Education

Our training programs equip students for certification tests in crucial water related topics. Taught by industry professionals, these programs instill confidence and help you take the steps towards advancing your career in the water industry.

Connection

Connect with industry leaders at our prestigious Annual Education and Exhibitor Show. Gain insights into the latest advancements in the water industry from the foremost experts in the field.

Expos

Classes

Apprentices

Start Online Training Today and Advance Your Career in the Water Industry

WaterLMS

Water Education. Your Way.

Courses starting at $20

Free Tribal Program Training

Quick Contact Hours

These learning plans are designed to get operators contact hours quickly.
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Water Pumps

ACR Distribution Systems

These courses are curated from ACR Publication’s extensive operator training and instructor training materials.
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AB-54 Clean Drinking Water

Water Distribution Classes

The classes in this catalog focus on Water Distribution topics.
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Generator Operator Training

General Course Catalog

We have over 100 courses available to operators.
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Rural Water Financing Agency

RURAL WATER FINANCING AGENCY

Enabling Borrowers to Collaborate on Financing Governmental Projects

Ready to Fund Your Project? Let’s Get Started.

Interim Loan Program

Fast, Flexible Construction Financing with USDA Takeout

The Interim Loan Program is designed to provide short-term construction financing for governmental projects. Borrowers benefit from a fixed rate for the term of construction, with all costs built into the loan rate and interest capitalized throughout the process.
Key Features

  • Streamlined, efficient application and documentation
  • Fixed construction loan rate (estimate: 4.90% for 2 years*)
  • Average Net Cost of Funds: 1.97%*
  • USDA Takeout at project completion
  • All costs included in the loan rate
  • Available to governmental borrowers in all 50 states

Flex Term Program

Long-Term, Fixed-Rate Financing — No DSRF Required

The Flex Term Program offers AA- rated, tax-exempt financing solutions with flexible terms ranging from 1 to 30 years. Designed for a wide variety of governmental project types, the program avoids the costly compliance burdens often associated with federal funding.
Key Features

  • AA- rated tax-exempt structure
  • No Borrower Debt Service Reserve Fund (DSRF) required
  • Fixed rates available for 1–30 years
  • Funding typically provided within 90–120 days
  • Exempt from BABAA, AIS, and Davis-Bacon requirements
  • 1.20x Debt Service Coverage required
  • Estimated fixed rates: 4.22% for 15 years, 4.81% for 30 years*

2026 Annual Education and Exhibitor Show Sponsors

cobank
aquametric
Zenner USA

Free Technical Assistance

For Eligible Water and Wastewater Systems Across California

CRWA provides no-cost, hands-on support to help small and rural systems stay compliant, improve operations, and access funding. Services include:

  • Leak detection using advanced acoustic tools to locate unaccounted-for water losses
  • MHI (Median Household Income) studies to help challenge county figures and improve grant eligibility
  • On-site operational assessments for treatment, distribution, and collection systems
  • Rate study guidance and Prop 218 compliance for legal and sustainable rate setting
  • GIS mapping support to document and visualize infrastructure
  • Staff training and SOP development tailored to your facility’s needs
  • Hosted training sessions available for groups of local systems

Services are provided at no cost and prioritized based on system need and compliance risk.

Rural Water Tower
Wastewater Plant
Water Utility
tahoe-at-night
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Wastewater Plant
Water Pumps
GIS mapping

California Water Infrastructure

Creating the Best Water Systems Through Education

Online Learning

Our online workforce development training programs at WaterLMS provide comprehensive training for water and wastewater operators, managers, and Board Members. Our goal is to offer a personalized learning experience tailored to your needs, ensuring a seamless and efficient learning journey that will empower you to achieve your goals.

In Person Learning

Our in-person training programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for certification tests in water distribution, water treatment, sampling techniques, and other crucial topics. You can gain confidence through our training programs, which are taught by industry professionals. Join us today and take the first step towards advancing your career in the water industry.

Apprenticeship Program

The CRWA Water/Wastewater Specialist apprenticeship program offers employed utility workers a chance to enhance their skills. It combines 288 hours of formal training with 4000 hours of on-the-job experience. Designed for multiple certifications, it also qualifies apprentices for a 2-year associates degree in water and wastewater management. New Water & Wastewater Apprenticeship Track Begins October 14, 2025 — Learn More
Benefits of CRWA Membership
Join Our Thriving Community to Connect, Inspire, and Excel Together
Preferred Provider Logo Star

Preferred Provider

Our Preferred Provider Program connects members with industry-leading services and exclusive benefits to boost operational efficiency.

  • Access exclusive member discounts on key products and services.
  • Partner with trusted providers for valuable resources.
  • Maximize savings through strategic partnerships.

System Membership

Benefit from event opportunities and resources.

  • Significant reduction in training and class fees.
  • Free membership directory and industry guide.
  • Reduced fees for EXPO and exhibitor space.
  • Subscription to the California Water Journal magazine.
  • Free website listing and access to employment resources.

Associate Membership

Expand your visibility and industry presence.

  • A FREE Membership Directory & Industry Resource Guide.
  • A subscription to our quarterly magazine, the California Water Journal; and, reduced advertising opportunities in the publication.
  • A substantial reduction in our annual EXPO Registration and Exhibitor fees.
  • Links with us on our Web Site including FREE listing on the employment site.

Other Ways We Help

Expertise and Support for Water Utilities
water management

SUSP Utility Services

SUSP (Support Utility Services Program) provides a wide range of support services to utility companies, including project management, regulatory compliance, and operational support. Their focus is on enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of utility operations, ensuring that services are delivered effectively and compliantly.

Insurance Programs

URIS and MemberGuard offer specialized insurance programs for utilities, providing a suite of coverage options designed to protect water and wastewater utilities against various risks. These programs include liability, property, and other types of insurance specifically tailored to meet the needs of utility services.
employment

Employment Opportunities

Discover a variety of job openings provided by water organizations across the state of California. This service aims to connect employment seekers with opportunities in water management — for roles that are critical to maintain water quality and services.

Top 5 Ways to Save Time on Insurance Renewals

Insurance renewals have a reputation for being stressful, last-minute, and disruptive to normal operations. The good news? With the right systems in place, renewals don't have to consume weeks of staff time every year. Here are five proven ways your water system can...

2026 Fee Classes — See What’s New!

By Candice Jackson, Membership, Training and Events Our 2026 Training and Education Schedules are designed to meet professionals where they are, offering a dynamic mix of certification review courses, hybrid learning options, and even selecting free classes to support...

Celebrating the Next Generation of Water Professionals

The California Rural Water Association (CRWA) is proud to recognize the upcoming graduating class of its Apprenticeship Program. These apprentices are completing an intensive earn-while-you-learn pathway that combines hands-on, on-the-job training with classroom...

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