SunCoast Learning Systems: Empowering Water and Wastewater Professionals Through Innovative E-Learning
SunCoast Learning Systems stands as a technology company dedicated to developing and hosting online training courses for water and wastewater professionals, enabling them to earn continuing education credits (CEUs). Through strategic partnerships with Rural Water Associations (RWAs) across the country, SunCoast Learning Systems delivers high-quality courses written by subject matter experts from its RWA partners. Every course sold provides royalties for the RWA that wrote the course and commission for the RWA that sold the course.
A History Rooted in Rural Water
SunCoast Learning Systems began its journey in 2002 under the leadership of Jerry Untiedt, who acquired the initial version of its Learning Management System (LMS). A chance phone call from Susan Untiedt to the Florida Rural Water Association sparked a crucial partnership between SunCoast Learning Systems and Rural Water Associations across the United States. In this collaboration with its first RWAs, SunCoast provided the LMS platform, conversion of training materials into online-compatible courses, ongoing technical support, payment processing solutions, and streamlined course marketing and sales on a national scale.
During its early years, SunCoast faced the typical challenges of a startup, navigating hurdles such as dial-up internet, Java-related issues, and various Internet Explorer problems. However, these early challenges solidified their love for the rural water community. Even the most frustrated operators, many of whom had limited computer experience, were incredibly understanding and kind. Through the process of creating its program, SunCoast developed a deep understanding and passion for the work that water and wastewater operators do for their communities.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change
A pivotal leadership transition occurred in January 2013 when Susan Untiedt took over the leadership role due to Jerry Untiedt's health issues. Although the transition presented challenges, Susan had previously gained extensive experience in the company's day-to-day operations. In January 2023, Susan Untiedt fully retired, passing the torch to Brian Fieg, who assumed the role of President and owner of A Plus Online LLC, operating as SunCoast Learning Systems.
SunCoast's LMS and technology stack have undergone numerous overhauls since its inception, continuously adapting to the evolving technological landscape.
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Commitment to Accessible and High-Quality Training
SunCoast Learning Systems is committed to empowering professionals with accessible, high-quality online training, driven by its commitment to excellence, integrity, and a positive work culture. The company adheres to the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Standard, ensuring the quality and relevance of its training programs.
SunCoast Learning started offering online courses exclusively in partnership with Rural Water Associations back in 2002, when online training was in its infancy.
Serving the Rural Water Industry
SunCoast Learning Systems plays a vital role in the rural water industry by providing accredited operator certification training, board member training, and on-site technical assistance that supports the specific needs of small water system personnel, tribal systems, and overburden systems. Classroom sessions are designed to meet state-specific compliance challenges and are strategically located to reach the largest number of small system operators.
Training Specialists offer technical assistance in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to small public water system personnel by working directly with them on-site at their system. These specialists assist in diagnosing, troubleshooting, and identifying solutions to operational and compliance-related problems, leveraging NRWA’s nationwide pool of expertise.
Supporting Operator Certification and Skill Development
Recognizing the importance of skilled and certified water operators, SunCoast Learning Systems supports initiatives like the Rural Water Association of Arizona's (RWAAZ) specialized trainings. RWAAZ's 3-day Water Operator Certification Training courses include review of subject material, take-home resources, and the opportunity to take the official ADEQ certification practice exam. Their 1-day courses are held either online or at their facility in Maricopa at their training office; however, they can work with systems to deliver them on-site if need be.
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Water and Wastewater Operators registering for e-Learning courses have a large menu of courses from which to choose.
Appreciation for Water and Wastewater Operators
SunCoast Learning Systems recognizes the vital work performed by water and wastewater operators, who tirelessly serve their communities. They understand that every time a faucet is turned on or a toilet is flushed, a debt of gratitude is owed to these dedicated individuals. The company acknowledges that this industry is of paramount importance to every American's quality of life, and the professionals within it often sacrifice fair compensation due to their unwavering commitment to the communities they serve.
Participating in the National Apprenticeship Program
SunCoast has proudly participated in the national apprenticeship program, aimed at attracting talented men and women to these vital occupations. The very first apprentice to graduate from the NRWA Apprenticeship Program accumulated an impressive 115 Contact Hours on SunCoast's e-learning platform.
Looking to the Future
SunCoast Learning Systems actively seeks opportunities for growth as it looks to the future. Its endeavors encompass internal operational enhancements, product and service upgrades, the exploration of new subjects and course offerings, innovative marketing strategies in an ever-evolving world, expansion into additional states and potentially international markets, and consideration of potential synergies with adjacent industries.
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