Rain Bird Services launched its 2013-2014 training season, featuring events at more than 90 locations nationwide.
“Our classes are designed to train irrigation professionals on proven practices and techniques that can help them take their careers to the next level,” said Robert Pfeil, marketing group manager.
Classes are pre-approved for Irrigation Association (IA) continuing education units.
The Rain Bird Factory Trained Program teaches installation, operation and maintenance best practices for Rain Bird systems. Contractors who earn “Installer,” “Operator,” “Technician” and “Expert” designations through the program are required to retest every three years to be up-to-date with new technology and techniques.
“We designed this program to specifically teach the skills required to get the most out of Rain Bird products. The various levels of expertise that contractors can earn through this program can also help them market themselves as leaders within the irrigation industry,” said Paul Lierheimer, director of Rain Bird’s contractor division.
Rain Bird Academy provides technical, college-level training for Green Industry professionals of all skill levels, helping them launch new careers or hone their skills in days. Five preparatory classes allow attendees to earn the following IA certifications:
- Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor;
- Certified Golf Irrigation Auditor;
- Certified Irrigation Contractor;
- Certified Irrigation Designer; and
- Certified Irrigation Technician.
“We’ve been helping people prepare for IA exams for more than 10 years,” said Jeremy Mansell, senior technical trainer for Rain Bird Services. “All of our instructors are IA-certified irrigation professionals with a passion for education. In addition to the Rain Bird materials we provide, we also educate attendees using IA materials and best management practices for a well-rounded experience.”
The academy welcomes individuals new to the industry as well through its Rain Bird Academy Boot Camp. Attendees are introduced to products from a variety of manufacturers and classes are offered on irrigation installation, technical skills, landscape irrigation design and efficient irrigation scheduling.
