The Irrigation Association recently designated Rain Bird Academy program’s four Boot Camp classes as part of the IA Select program for quality irrigation education. This marks the first time that the Irrigation Association has awarded the IA Select designation to classes offered by an external training services provider.
“One of the IA’s strategic initiatives is to provide professionally developed irrigation education,” said Sherrie Schulte, professional development director for the Irrigation Association. “The IA applauds members, like Rain Bird Services, who invest in providing quality training that promotes efficient irrigation to the industry.”
The four Boot Camp classes that are now part of the IA Select program also provide attendees with valuable continuing education credits. These non-manufacturer-specific classes include:
- Introduction to Irrigation and Installation (8 CEUs)
- Irrigation Technician (16 CEUs)
- Landscape Irrigation Design Process (8 CEUs)
- Efficient Irrigation Scheduling (4 CEUs)
“We’ve worked diligently to provide well-rounded training that focuses on the importance of installing and maintaining efficient irrigation systems that use less water in the pursuit of healthy landscapes,” said Paul Lierheimer, director of Rain Bird’s Contractor Division. “That focus is especially important considering the prevalence of water restrictions and the need for water conservation. By attending our training, both new and seasoned irrigation professionals can learn how to help their customers make the most of every drop.”
Having a course approved as part of the IA Select program is a significant achievement. All IA Select classes must adhere to the IA’s best management practices standards (BMPS) in the design, installation and service of irrigation systems. Providers submit course material to an IA review committee, and those providers with courses meeting specified criteria become members of the IA Select program and bear the IA Select label.
Rain Bird Services will be offering its unique four-and-a-half-day irrigation Boot Camps at 30 locations throughout the United States beginning October 2014 through March 2015, and registrations are now being accepted online. To register for an event or to learn more about Rain Bird training events throughout the United States and internationally, visit www.rainbirdservices.com.
