North Carolina Wastewater Operator Training (2026)
Excellence Through Applied Training (ETA)
Prepare for your state certification with the industry’s leading Physical/Chemical Wastewater school. Our courses are co-sponsored by the North Carolina WPCSOCC and are specifically designed to bridge the gap between complex regulations and daily “hands-on” plant operations.
Onsite Training (Multiple States Available)
Need to train your team without travel downtime? We can deliver these courses onsite for groups of six (6) or more. This option is ideal for municipalities, facilities, and industrial operations that want consistent training outcomes across multiple operators—especially when you need a predictable schedule and stronger internal alignment.
2026 Course Schedule & Locations
2026 Course Schedule & Locations
Charlotte, NC Sessions
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Spring Session: April 20 – 23, 2026
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Summer Session: July 20 – 23, 2026
Morrisville, NC Sessions
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Fall Session: October 19 – 22, 2026
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Available Certification Tracks
Physical/Chemical Grade 1
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Duration: 2 ½ Days (18–20 Hours)
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Focus: Core fundamentals of physical/chemical treatment, regulatory oversight, and basic system troubleshooting.
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Cost: $450 (Individual) | $400 (Additional Attendee from same company)
Physical/Chemical Grade 2
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Duration: 1 ½ Days (14 Hours)
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Focus: Advanced treatment processes, complex math for operators, and leadership in compliance management.
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Cost: $450 (Individual) | $400 (Additional Attendee from same company)
Combined Grades 1 & 2 (Best Value)
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Duration: 4 Full Days (32 Hours)
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Focus: Comprehensive preparation covering the entire spectrum of Physical/Chemical wastewater management.
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Cost: $850 (Individual) | $745 (Additional Attendee from same company)
Successful completion of this school is required to sit for the NC DEQ State Exams. Please note the following postmark deadlines:
Critical State Exam Deadlines
2026 Course Schedule & Locations
Training Month
April 2026
July 2026
October 2026
State Exam Dates
June 11, 2026
September 10, 2026
December 3, 2026
Postmark Deadline
May 11, 2026
August 10, 2026
November 3, 2026
Required Materials & Add-onss
- Reference Textbook: $125.00
- Highly recommended for exam preparation and on-the-job reference.
Onsite Group Training
Registration & Payment
Note: Training hotels will be announced 30 days prior to each session.
Led by Athan Tsarouhas, PE
With over 27 years of experience in pretreatment permitting and troubleshooting, Athan provides practical insights that go beyond the textbook, ensuring you are prepared for both the state exam and real-world operational challenges.
ETA Training FAQ
Q1: How do I choose between Grade 1, Grade 2, or the combined option?
If you’re building fundamentals or taking Grade 1, start with Grade 1. If you’re preparing for chemical treatment concepts and the Grade 2 exam, choose Grade 2. If you want the most complete path in one week, choose the combined Grades 1 & 2 option.
Q2: When is payment due?
Application and payment in full are required two weeks prior to the class start date.
Q3: What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Cancellations must be received at least two weeks before the class begins for a full refund. Substitutions are allowed, and paid attendees who must cancel can attend a subsequent class.
Q4: Are hotel costs included?
Hotel rooms are not included. Attendees are responsible for lodging costs.
Q5: Is there a textbook requirement?
A reference textbook is available as an optional add-on (currently $125 each). If you have questions about materials for your session, contact us and we’ll help you prepare.
Q6: Do you offer training outside North Carolina?
Yes—onsite group training is available in multiple states for groups of six (6) or more. Contact us with your location and group size for options.
Register For 2026 Training Today
If your goal is certification, stronger performance, and fewer compliance surprises, this course is the fastest way to build the knowledge and confidence you need. Reserve your seat today—multiple dates are available throughout the year.