The start of a new year often brings a wave of change, and here at WPI, it was no different! As we push forward into 2023, there are already big plans for what the organization has in store for our stakeholders. We want to ensure these changes reflect our core values and goals – driving us onward from where we were yesterday. So, here is our dedication to celebrating the past and the potential of the year ahead. May it allow us all to take time to appreciate what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance.
Change is constant, and that has never been more evident than having our organization rebrand and rename itself after 50 years. It wasn’t an easy decision for the Board, but it was a data-driven process that focused on who we are, and what we mean to the water industry, with more than a dash of what we want to be in the future. The rebranding of our organization was an important step to ensure that it could better represent the values, services, and mission that we strive for. It was also a necessary move considering the changing water industry, which is why we wanted to make sure our identity aligned with our future vision. By doing this, we can look forward as an organization that has a voice at the table and is driving future discussions.
Beyond our branding, WPI began our exam development efforts that were placed on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our volunteer Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) have been hard at work on job analysis surveys, which were launched this fall with another round going out in January of 2023. Every water industry professional knows the field is constantly changing. New technologies and services are emerging all the time, and it can be difficult to keep up with the latest trends. Our job analysis survey results will affect our Need-to-Know Criteria which in turn will affect the content of our standardized exams, to be released in 2024. That’s where WPI comes in as a driving force in our industry; we are committed to leading the way in ensuring operators are being properly tested on what is most relevant today and giving our members access to the most convenient testing services and modalities for exam delivery. We are constantly working with PSI to alleviate exam backlogs and barriers to testing.
We have celebrated the greater adoption of standardized exams by our testing clients along with a move to web and computer-based testing. All of this creates a more advantageous environment for operators to get proper training and education while also being able to sit for an exam without having to take too much time away from work. The acceptance of distance learning, adult learning techniques, and exam modalities is beginning to meet the needs of tomorrow’s workforce. Even with these advancements, there is still more to do and the WPI Board is exploring the organization’s role in ensuring all aspects of certification.
You may have noticed we are expanding our communications outreach to provide you with critical information promptly. In partnership with the David James Group (DJG) out of Chicago, WPI has expanded its presence through new websites and social media platforms including a new website, new blog, IMMERSE, and a new Instagram account. Please take time to sign up and follow these new initiatives to stay informed as we look to bring new and engaging content to you.
In 2023, we will be doing more of the same as we provide resources to water industry professionals through our continued exam development and release of new exam forms, white papers, informational webinars for certifying boards and administrators, and our blog. Water professionals are in high demand, and with the water industry rapidly changing, it’s more important than ever for organizations to use their voice. WPI is proud to be that voice for water industry professionals ensuring that our stakeholders are aware of the challenges and opportunities facing them in an ever-changing landscape. We also continue to be a leader in water technology innovation, providing best-in-class solutions to our clients worldwide. We are committed to being a resource for water industry professionals, and we know that together we can achieve great things!
