Overview
Certifications document a student’s progress through Watershape University (WU) and, ultimately, to the International Watershape Institute (IWI). Credentials can be obtained at multiple steps as the student progresses from a beginning student (“freshman”) to more advanced levels of training and expertise (“senior” and “post-graduate” levels). Credentials are acknowledged via wall certificates and digital badging that is verifiable at verify.watershape.org.
Certified Watershape Operator (CWO)
The Certified Watershape Operator (CWO) validates that the recipient has met the globally-recognized professional standard that covers the breadth of disciplines and rigors required to provide a healthy and safe bather environment and protect stakeholders’ interests in aquatic properties, whether commercial or residential.
Earn your certification by completing the CWO course and passing a professional exam.
Take the course at your convenience. Online. On-demand.
(An alternative to the CPO®)
The Certified Watershape Operator (CWO) Course is the most comprehensive course available for service professionals and facility operators and is the most up-to-date and only online, self-paced Pool Operator Course that has been accredited by the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) – set up and supported by the CDC. This course will be accepted everywhere that the CPO is required.
Pool Operator Certification
Endorsed by CMAHC
Accepted in several states
Why choose the CWO certification?
CWO benefits
Lasts 5 years and only costs $300
(14% savings!)
100% online, go at your own pace
No travel, scheduling, or missed work time
Exam included, can be taken online
Help desk available 24/7
Unlimited and comprehensive course access
- 16 hours of course material
- current/up-to-date material for the 5 year cycle
Savings add up when certifying more employees
- 10 employees – save $500
- 20 employees – save $1,000
- 100 employees – save $5,000
…. and so on
CPO® course
- Lasts 5 years, costs $350 per employee on average
- Online access is limited based on the instructor’s schedule
- Virtual delivery of content must be approved by the local jurisdiction/state
- Live classes may require travel time and expenses
Industry-standard education guaranteed
This course features instruction by two industry leading experts: David J. Peterson & John Oldfield.
David J. Peterson, P.E., IWI
President/CEO of Watershape Consulting, Inc.
Founder of Watershape University
Mr. Peterson is a renowned leader in the watershaping industry with over 30 years of experience. He is a principal member of the International Watershape Institute. His international firm, Watershape Consulting, provides stakeholders with services relating to residential, commerical, and institutional pools, spas and water features.
John Oldfield
Owner of Oldfield Inc.
Mr. Oldfield has established himself as a well-known service professional, owning and managing his own commercial and resident service company since 2005. He currently serves on Independent Pool and Spa Service Association’s national board as Director of Region 10.
Requirements to earn the CWO
1
Complete the CWO course: SERVICE 2811: Essential Watershape Operation & Maintenance
(16 hours Online On-Demand | 1.6 IACET CEUs)
2
Pass the professional exam (both the application and exam costs are covered in the course fee)
- In your application, sign and accept both the WU Code of Ethics and the WU Standards of Practice.
Exam / Assessment
- Proctored online exam
- Schedule exam at your convenience 24/7
- 50 questions
- Pass with a minimum score of 75%
Licensing
Watershape University education and certification programs have been approved in many states and municipalities for licensure and commercial pool operation. If you have a question about a specific state or county, please email: [email protected].
Renewing Your CWO Certification
The CWO designation is valid for 5 years. When renewing your CWO, you will be required take the Certified Watershape Operator Course again and pass the CWO exam with a score of 75% over higher.