Over the past year, there has been discussion about changing the name of NAWT. Most of you know and recognize NAWT by the acronym rather than the full name: National Association of Wastewater Transporters.
As many years have gone by, NAWT has become more than an association solely for pumpers and transporters in the industry. NAWT now encompasses many aspects in the wastewater industry, which is apparent in our diverse membership as well as in all the different national accredited certifications we offer.
Today, NAWT includes service providers and technicians in the industry, working side by side with other national, state and local affiliates. After discussion and feedback from our members, the new NAWT name changes the "T" from Transporters to Technicians, so now we're the National Association of Wastewater Technicians.
Including the word "technicians'' as part of our name has drawn many positive comments. It encompasses not only the pumpers, but it branches out to include many other industry professionals who are already members of the association. With the name change comes a new logo, which you see on this page, designed to convey our professionalism and numerous accreditations.
Scholarship Funding Available
What student wouldn't want extra money to go toward college tuition? This year we are changing a bit from the traditional essay question for the William Hapchuk Memorial Scholarship. The 2013 scholarship will be awarded to the student who creates and designs a slogan or bumper sticker representing NAWT, and then writes a 250- to 500-word essay in support of their concept or design.
Students, do your homework and get creative. Your new creation may be used by NAWT for years to come or you might even see it on a truck rolling past you someday.
Many professionals working in the wastewater industry are members of NAWT. Keep in mind NAWT is a national association that focuses on maintaining a unified voice for the industry, a leader in education, and projecting a positive public image. We provide information and educational opportunities to the working professionals in the industry.
A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a current full-time college student majoring in environmental science, life science or related curriculum. The scholarship has been awarded year after year in memory of William Hapchuk, a founding member of the Pennsylvania Septage Management Association. An application can be found at our website to fill out and then emailed or mailed to NAWT for the Scholarship Committee to review. Deadline for all applications is Jan. 1, 2013. Don't miss your chance to receive extra funding for your education.
Maintaining NAWT Certification
Probably the most frequently asked question we hear is, "Why isn't my name on the NAWT inspector list on the website anymore?" Answer: Your certification has expired. A credential is good for two years. You can check its expiration date at www.nawt.org. Retaining the credential requires eight hours of continuing education taken during the 18 months before the certificate expires. In other words, any classes taken the first six months after the certification date do not count toward the required eight CEUs. We chose this route because technical knowledge changes rapidly over two years.
We're open-minded regarding the type of onsite training you choose, provided it doesn't involve business or municipal treatment plant operator courses. Many other entities and university extension offices offer acceptable classes. In addition, NAWT has many education partners that offer courses throughout the year. NAWT also will present courses at the Pumper & Cleaner Environmental Expo International in Indianapolis in 2013. If you have questions about which credits we'll approve, call our toll-free number and ask before registering.
