The California Rural Water Association (CRWA) is committed to helping California’s water and wastewater utilities succeed through training, technical assistance, engineering support, compliance services, insurance programs, and operational resources. Whether your system is looking for regulatory guidance, workforce development, infrastructure planning, or day-to-day operational support, CRWA offers a comprehensive network of services designed to strengthen utilities and support the communities they serve.
Training and Professional Development
One of the most valuable benefits of CRWA membership is access to high-quality training opportunities. CRWA provides both in-person and online classes throughout California, allowing operators, managers, board members, and utility staff to stay current on industry regulations, operational best practices, and emerging technologies.
Our training programs are designed to support professional growth while helping utilities maintain compliance and improve operational efficiency.
Training Resources:
- In-Person Classes: https://calruralwater.org/in-person-classes/
- Online Training (WaterLMS): https://www.waterlms.com/learn
In addition to year-round training, CRWA hosts its annual CRWA Expo, bringing together industry professionals, exhibitors, technical experts, and utility leaders from across the state. The Expo offers valuable networking opportunities, continuing education, and access to the latest products and services impacting the water and wastewater industry.
CRWA Expo Information: https://calruralwater.org/expo/
Building the Future Workforce Through Apprenticeship
As workforce development continues to be a critical challenge throughout the industry, CRWA’s Apprenticeship Program is helping create the next generation of certified water and wastewater professionals.
The two-year registered apprenticeship program offers separate Water and Wastewater Specialist tracks and combines 307 hours of Related Technical Instruction (RTI) with 4,000 hours of structured On-the-Job Training (OJT). Participants receive hands-on experience while building the knowledge and skills necessary to advance their careers and support their communities.
Learn More About the Apprenticeship Program: https://calruralwater.org/our-programs/workforce/apprenticeship/
Technical Assistance When You Need It Most
CRWA’s Technical Assistance Programs provide eligible utilities with expert guidance and support at no cost. Circuit Riders and technical specialists work directly with systems to address operational challenges, improve performance, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Services available through the Technical Assistance Program include:
- Water and wastewater system assessments and operational reviews
- Energy efficiency assessments
- Source water protection planning
- Rate studies and financial evaluations
- USDA Rural Development application assistance
- Median Household Income (MHI) studies
- Leak detection services
- GIS mapping support
These services are designed to provide practical solutions that improve utility performance while helping systems plan for future needs.
Specialized Insurance Programs Designed for Utilities
Protecting utility assets and managing risk are critical responsibilities for every water and wastewater system. CRWA offers access to two specialized insurance programs designed specifically for public utilities: URIS and MemberGuard.
URIS
URIS provides comprehensive insurance solutions tailored specifically for water and wastewater utilities. Coverage options include property, inland marine, boiler and machinery, crime, automobile liability, pollution liability, sewer backup, professional liability, employment practices liability, and excess liability.
Learn More: https://urisinsurance.com/
MemberGuard
MemberGuard is a fully reinsured pool insurance program providing comprehensive coverage options including general liability, excess liability, business auto, property, inland marine, public officials and management liability, workers’ compensation, and crime coverage.
Learn More: https://www.mymemberguard.com/
For additional information regarding either insurance program, contact:
Thomas Elisher – telisher@urisinsurance.com | (530) 306-7045
Dustin Hardwick – dhardwick@urisinsurance.com | (760) 920-0842
Comprehensive Engineering Solutions
Through SUSP Engineering, CRWA members have access to a full-service engineering team specializing in water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
Engineering services include:
- Well development, rehabilitation, and assessments
- Water storage tanks and reservoirs
- Pipeline replacement and expansion projects
- Water treatment plant upgrades
- Pump stations and hydraulic modeling
- Source capacity studies and source water assessments
- Needs assessments and system evaluations
- Grant administration and funding support
- Wastewater treatment plant improvements
- Lift stations and sewer pumping facilities
- Inflow and infiltration studies
- Smoke testing and CCTV inspections
- Lead service line inspections
- Regulatory compliance support
Whether a utility is addressing aging infrastructure, expanding capacity, or planning future improvements, SUSP Engineering provides technical expertise from concept through project completion.
Learn More About SUSP Engineering: https://www.suspeng.org/
Contract Operations and Compliance Services
Many utilities face staffing shortages, certification challenges, or temporary operational needs. SUSP Operations Services provides flexible contract operations and support services to help utilities maintain reliable operations and regulatory compliance.
Services include:
- Contract water and wastewater operations
- Chief Plant Operator (CPO) services
- Compliance reporting
- Backflow testing
- Cross-connection surveys
- Installation projects
- Tract startup support
- Operational consulting and assistance
These services allow utilities to access experienced professionals when additional expertise or staffing resources are needed.
Learn More About SUSP Operations Services: https://www.suspinc.org/
Savings Through the Preferred Provider Program
CRWA members also benefit from the Preferred Provider Program, which offers access to discounts and specialized services from trusted industry partners.
Participating providers offer expertise in areas such as:
- Legal services
- Electrical engineering
- Leak detection
- Laboratory testing
- Financing solutions
- Payment collection services
- Energy management
- Water loss insurance
- Data management and technology solutions
These partnerships help members reduce costs while gaining access to valuable resources that support operational success.
More Than Membership
CRWA membership is much more than access to training or technical assistance. It is a partnership dedicated to supporting the success of California’s water and wastewater utilities. From workforce development and regulatory compliance to engineering, operations, insurance, and financial resources, CRWA provides the tools, expertise, and support necessary to help utilities meet today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities.
If you are not currently taking advantage of all the benefits available through your membership, we encourage you to reach out to the CRWA team. We are here to help your utility succeed and ensure you receive the maximum value from your membership investment.
Please contact Candice Jackson, Membership Service Manager, candicej@calruralwater.org, or by phone direct at (916) 283-8502.