There is no better time than now to invest in training and certifications in the trenchless technology industry. While our new administration has made infrastructure a priority, the out-of-sight, out-of-mind underground that is our focus remains to be inadequately funded.

That’s why it’s more important than ever that we make sure rehabilitation projects are completed using the most effective methods and according to industry standards that ensure long-lasting quality. Since we’re working with a deficit already, we surely don’t have the money or time to fix rehabilitation projects gone wrong.

While we often see the low bidder winning the job in our industry, I predict that one day the person/ company with the most skills, qualifications and certifications will be awarded the most projects. I say this with much thought and experience, and especially in the past year since NASSCO introduced its Inspector Training and Certification Program (ITCP) for CIPP.

This two-day course provides comprehensive education and tools for professionals to better understand and inspect trenchless pipe-line renewal technologies. The program consists of classroom learning in five areas:

• Existing pipe defects and how they affect CIPP installations

• Overview of the CIPP technology

• Field installation of CIPP

• Specifications: the inspector’s instructions and guidelines

• Pipeline renewal technologies and applications, including TAG-R renewal technology selection software.

Since we launched ITCP for CIPP, we have trained more than 200 inspectors, and they are finding the certification helpful to their careers and businesses. Training programs are in development for other technologies, such as pipe bursting and manhole rehabilitation.

I believe trained inspectors are beneficial to everyone in our industry. A NASSCO trained and certified inspector can be an asset to a CIPP contractor, bringing a comprehensive understanding of the difference between a cosmetic defect and a structurally significant defect. A certified inspector can use the ITCP manual to support a position by referring to many photos of typical defects and their causes and required repairs, if any.

The system owner also benefits by having a certified inspector on site during a CIPP installation. The inspector fully documents all aspects of the installation, and that information becomes part of the project file upon completion. The inspector also observes good practices by the contractor that can save time and money while helping to ensure a successful installation. Trained inspectors help support long-term quality CIPP installations to the benefit of everyone in our industry.

Sewer pipes will continue to decay, but our minds shouldn’t. Whether you’re a contractor, inspector or engineer, it is vital to pursue ongoing professional development and training. Contact NASSCO to learn more about training and certification programs in the trenchless technology industry.

Irvin Gemora is executive director of NASSCO. He can be reached at director@nassco.org. The NASSCO headquarters is at 11521 Cronridge Dr., Suite J, Owings Mills, MD 21117.