Introduction to IT in the Water Utility Industry

February 24-25, 2025 | Online :: Central Time

0225-it-introduction

Water utility employees often face challenges in keeping up with the rapidly evolving landscape of Information Technology (IT) within the context of their industry. As water management systems become increasingly reliant on digital solutions, employees may lack the necessary IT foundations to optimize operations, address cybersecurity risks, and leverage emerging technologies effectively. The absence of a comprehensive understanding of IT infrastructure, networks, system integration, and data exchange standards can hinder their ability to embrace advancements that lead to greater efficiency and sustainable water services.

The EUCI “Introduction to IT in the Water Utility Industry” course offers a targeted solution to address the IT knowledge gap among water utility employees. Participants will gain essential IT knowledge and skills, empowering them to navigate the complexities of modern water management systems confidently. The course provides a comprehensive exploration of the following:

• IT infrastructure components
• Network architectures
• System integration and interoperability
• Mobile technologies for field operations
• Cloud computing benefits
• Insights into emerging technologies like IoT and AI applications

After the course, participants will have a better understanding of best practices for driving digital transformation, optimizing processes, and contributing to a resilient and technologically adept water utility workforce.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify the significance of IT in water systems for operational efficiency and service delivery.
• Define essential software terminologies for effective communication with IT professionals.
• Examine key components of IT infrastructure and networks in water utilities, including cybersecurity measures.
• Utilize mobile technologies for data collection, remote monitoring, and asset management in field operations.
• Assess cloud computing and SaaS benefits and considerations for enhanced efficiency in water utilities.
• Explore emerging technologies applicable to water management, such as IoT and AI applications.
• Apply IT project management methodologies to contribute to successful IT projects in the water utility sector.

Monday, February 24, 2025 : Central Time

 

Role of IT in Water Systems

• Software Terminologies and Definitions

IT Infrastructure and Networks

• Components of IT Infrastructure in Water Utilities
  • Hardware (servers, workstations, networking equipment)
  • Software systems (operating systems, databases, applications)
  • Data storage systems (servers, cloud storage)
  • Communication networks (LAN, WAN, wireless networks)
  • Cybersecurity measures (firewalls, intrusion detection systems)
• Network Architecture in Water Utilities
  • Local Area Networks (LAN) within utility facilities
  • Wide Area Networks (WAN) connecting multiple sites
  • Remote access and VPN (Virtual Private Network) connections
  • Network security protocols and best practices
• Cloud Computing in the Water Utility Industry
  • Public, private, and hybrid cloud deployment models
  • Cloud-based infrastructure and application considerations

System Integration and Interoperability

• Integration of GIS (Geographic Information System)
• SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Systems
• API (Application Programming Interface)
• CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System)
• ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) System
• Customer Information System (CIS)
• Asset Management System
• Billing and Revenue Management System
• Interoperability Challenges and Solutions
  • Compatibility issues between different systems and vendors
  • Standardization efforts and initiatives
  • Middleware and data integration platforms
• Data Exchange Standards and Protocols
  • Common standards for data exchange (e.g., OGC, OPC)
  • Protocols for real-time data transmission (e.g., MQTT, OPC-UA)
  • Data mapping and transformation techniques

Mobile Technologies for Field Operations

• Mobile devices and applications for field data collection
• Remote monitoring and control technologies
• Asset management and maintenance using mobile tools

 

Tuesday, February 25, 2025 : Central Time

 

Cloud Computing and Software as a Service (SaaS)

• Benefits and considerations for adopting cloud solutions
• Cloud service models and deployment options
• SaaS applications for water utility operations

Emerging Technologies in the Water Utility Industry

• Data Science, Data Analytics, and Business Intelligence
• Internet of Things (IoT) applications for water systems
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning in water utility operations
• Digital Twins
• Predictive analytics and optimization techniques
• Industry trends and future directions

IT Project Management for Water Utilities

• Project lifecycle and methodologies
• Agile vs. Waterfall Methodologies
• IT project planning, budgeting, and resource management
• Risk assessment and mitigation in IT projects

Pooja Mahajan, Product Manager – Innovation, Stantec

Pooja Mahajan has over a decade of experience in the AEC industry and currently serves as a Product Manager within Stantec’s Innovation team. Her expertise spans wastewater treatment, environmental compliance, and stormwater management, which have been foundational in her transition to IT-focused product management. In her current role, Pooja leads the development of innovative SaaS solutions aimed at solving complex environmental challenges. She works at the intersection of engineering and technology, collaborating closely with IT and software development teams to deliver cutting-edge digital products that help municipal agencies tackle complex problems. Pooja holds a master’s degree in environmental engineering, a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, and a certification in Data Analytics.

We will be using Microsoft Teams to facilitate your participation in the upcoming event. You do not need to have an existing Teams account in order to participate in the broadcast – the course will play in your browser and you will have the option of using a microphone to speak with the room and ask questions, or type any questions in via the chat window and our on-site representative will relay your question to the instructor.

• Microsoft recommends downloading and installing the Teams app if possible. You may also use the Edge browser or Chrome.
• You will receive a separate email with a unique link to a personalized landing page which will include links to join all sessions of this event.
• If you are using a microphone, please ensure that it is muted until such time as you need to ask a question.
• The remote meeting connection will be open approximately 30 minutes before the start of the course. We encourage you to connect as early as possible in case you experience any unforeseen problems.

Please Note: This event is being conducted entirely online. All attendees will connect and attend from their computer, one connection per purchase. For details please see our FAQ

If you are unable to attend at the scheduled date and time, we make recordings available to all attendees for 7 days after the event

REGISTER NOW FOR THIS EVENT:

Introduction to IT in the Water Utility Industry

February 24-25, 2025 | Online

Your registration may be transferred to a member of your organization up to 24 hours in advance of the event. Cancellations must be received on or before January 24, 2025 in order to be refunded and will be subject to a US $195.00 processing fee per registrant. No refunds will be made after this date. Cancellations received after this date will create a credit of the tuition (less processing fee) good toward any other EUCI event. This credit will be good for six months from the cancellation date. In the event of non-attendance, all registration fees will be forfeited. In case of conference cancellation, EUCIs liability is limited to refund of the event registration fee only. For more information regarding administrative policies, such as complaints and refunds, please contact our offices at 303-770-8800

Credits

EUCI is accredited by the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and offers IACET CEUs for its learning events that comply with the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Standard. IACET is recognized internationally as a standard development organization and accrediting body that promotes quality of continuing education and training.

EUCI is authorized by IACET to offer 1.0 CEUs for this event

Verify our IACET accreditation

Who recognizes IACET Credits?

Requirements for Successful Completion of Program

Participants must log in each day and be in attendance for the entirety of the course to be eligible for continuing education credit.

Instructional Methods

PowerPoint presentations, interactive group exercise, and group discussion will be used during this course.

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Upon successful completion of this event, program participants interested in receiving CPE credits will receive a certificate of completion.

Course CPE Credits: 11.0
There is no prerequisite for this Course.
Program field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Program Level: Basic
Delivery Method: Group Internet Based
Advanced Preparation: None

EUCI is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its web site: www.nasbaregistry.org

 

Who Should Attend

• Water Utility Managers
• Water System Engineers
• IT Managers in Water Utilities
• Water Utility Technicians
• Operations Supervisors in Water Management
• Data Analysts/Scientists working in Water Utilities
• GIS (Geographic Information System) Specialists in Water Industry
• Cybersecurity Analysts for Water Infrastructure
• Maintenance and Asset Management Personnel in Water Utilities
• Customer Service Representatives in Water Utility Companies
• SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Professionals
• AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) or AMR (Automatic Meter Reading) Specialists