Page 1.1: Introduction to Water Systems Technology

Water Systems Technology is a program designed to provide the student with enough information to build a successful and lasting career in the water and wastewater industries. It is a program that has been developed by professionals within the industry and within academia. Upon successful completion of the program and after completing any required general education course work, the student can earn an Associate of Science degree in Water Systems Technology. In addition, each course provides supplemental course work hours required for renewal of existing certifications in the water and wastewater industries and many provide specialized training coursework to qualify students to take state certification exams. The program has several general topic course options, includes coursework related to waterworks mathematics, and has specialized courses covering water distribution, water treatment, and wastewater.

Introduction to Water Systems Technology (Water 020) is a general overview course of the entire Water Systems Technology program. Topics covered include the requirements to obtain a career in the water and wastewater industries, and an overview of specific disciplines covered throughout the program. The various courses will provide the student a broad understanding of both the drinking water and wastewater industries, as well as specific technical background. This course and the accompanying text will provide the student with enough information to determine if “water” is the type of career for them.

Water is a vital resource to sustain both animal and plant life. It is a resource that many take for granted. As long water flows out of the faucets within a home, many people don’t think much more about it. However, if the flow of water stops, people take notice. Think for a moment about all the things we use water for: washing, bathing, drinking, cooking, cleaning, restrooms, brushing teeth, the list goes on and on. And this is only some of the indoor water usage. Most of the water used by residential consumers is outdoors. Whether it is landscaping, swimming pools, washing cars, or growing crops, outdoor water use can account for up to 70% of a customer’s water usage. In addition, commercial and industrial businesses use water for a variety of different processes. Some industries might use millions of gallons of water a year while others might only use a few thousand gallons. Take for example an insurance office with 10 employees. More than likely the office will have a restroom and perhaps a small kitchen area. The water use at this type of business would probably be rather low. Maybe a couple hundred gallons of water flushed down the toilet and a couple pots of coffee a day might be all. Now, take the example of chemical manufacturing plant with 100 employees. In addition to restrooms and possibly a kitchen, this type of business might have boilers, water treatment and conditioner systems, and may also use a lot of water in the production of chemicals. You can see how water use can vary from business to business. Lastly, and the biggest user of water, is the agricultural industry. In California, growing crops throughout the state can account for up to 80% of the total water use. Water is not only a health and safety need of millions of people, it is a vital resource for keeping the economic system flourishing. Some of these topics and a discussion of the various uses of water will be covered throughout this course.