The Value of Certification

One of the best ways to grow your business is by giving it a competitive advantage. Stand out among the “other guys in town” with a little training. As a Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT), you will automatically position yourself as a trusted resource and professional for customers, employers, and peers. Whether you work in turf and landscape, golf or agriculture, irrigation systems are a key component to your business, and certification will help you take it to the next level. SiteOne® Landscape Supply and the Irrigation Association are ready to help you navigate the certification process. Here are four proof points that reinforce the ROI.

Benefits of Certification

1. Obtain instant credibility. Earning a certification title sets you apart from competitors as customers consider who to hire for a job. The seal behind your company name demonstrates your training and knowledge to get a job done well. 
2. Increased job opportunities. Many jobs, especially municipal projects require certification, and some states expect certification to operate. Check with your respective state’s board to determine if licensing is required. Whether you’re bidding on new jobs, seeking new responsibilities, or building a client base, certification opens the doors to new opportunities. 
3. Demonstrate your commitment to water efficiency. Everyone is working to be better stewards of the environment, so water management is an important issue for businesses and homeowners. Certified irrigation contractors, landscape irrigation designers, and golf and landscape auditors qualify for the EPA WaterSense Program. Among other benefits, a WaterSense partner has access to:

• EPA’s consumer awareness campaign
• Marketing benefits, including the use of the logo, to promote themselves as being certified by a WaterSense labeled program
• Listing on the EPA’s online directory

1. Gain access to verified educational materials. Earning your CIT is a great first step. It’s important to stay ahead of changing technology with ongoing training and education. Every two years, certification holders are required to submit 20 continuing education units (CEUs). The additional training ensures you are in lockstep with innovation and technology your customers may desire when selecting the right contractor for the job.  

The Process of Getting Certified

To become a CIT, you must register, pass the three-hour irrigation technician exam, comply with the Irrigation Association Certified Code of Ethics and remain in good standing. Available certification programs through the Irrigation Association include:

• Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT)
• Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA)
• Certified Golf Irrigation Auditor (CGIA)
• Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC)
• Certified Irrigation Designer – Landscape (CID – Landscape)
• Certified Agricultural Irrigation Specialist (CAIS)
• Certified Irrigation Designer – Agriculture (CID – Agriculture)

The Irrigation Association offers several resources to help prepare for certification exams, including:

• A Certification Candidate Handbook, to be used as a go-to guide for applying and maintaining irrigation association certifications — including exam details, policies and procedures. 
• References for each landscape or agriculture certification exam, including a downloadable worksheet with equations used on the exam
• An Irrigation Glossary
• Practice tests
• Frequently asked questions

For more information about certification programs and qualifications, visit Irrigation.org.

You’re in Control, and We’re Here to Help

You have the tools to get the job done, but you need the know-how. SiteOne offers an exclusive combination of products, services and expertise to help you grow your irrigation business, including:

• Irrigation courses through SiteOne University.
• Skilled irrigation experts ready to answer any questions at your local branch.
• Technical support from the most trusted manufacturers.
• Extensive product inventory and availability. 

SiteOne is available to assist you in navigating the process of taking your business to the next level through certification.