The Cyber Readiness Institute (CRI) is proud to share that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has approved the Cyber Readiness Program for wastewater operator renewal credits. This important step makes cybersecurity training more accessible for the essential workforce that keeps our water systems safe and reliable.
With this approval, the CRI program will now be listed alongside other pre-approved courses for wastewater operator recertification. To receive credit, operators simply need to submit a letter or certificate of completion with their renewal application.
The DEC began the approval process after a New York wastewater operator submitted their CRI certificate of completion for credit hours. The state found the CRI program met requirements and granted four hours of credit to reflect the learning experience.
Cybersecurity threats to water and wastewater utilities are growing rapidly. New York recently proposed the nation’s first comprehensive, mandatory cyber regulation for the sector. By offering wastewater operators professional credit for the CRI program, New York is aligning workforce development with urgent cybersecurity priorities. The CRI program also helps operators integrate cyber readiness into their day-to-day responsibilities, ensuring utilities can better prevent, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents.
Expanding Impact Nationwide
This milestone builds on work CRI is already leading with partners to strengthen cyber resilience across the water sector. In 2023, CRI, the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), and Microsoft launched a phased pilot program to implement the Cyber Readiness Program across small and medium-sized water and wastewater utilities nationwide.
The pilot provides utilities with a free CRI Certified Cyber Coach, uniquely trained to guide participants through the program and foster a sustainable cyber-ready culture. CRI has worked with over 60 water utilities across 24 states, including two in New York that have completed the program.
Building a Safer Future for Water Utilities
From ransomware attacks to phishing campaigns, cyber threats can disrupt essential services and jeopardize public health. Programs like CRI’s give operators practical tools and step-by-step guidance to reduce risks and strengthen their organizations’ resilience.
New York’s approval of the Cyber Readiness Program for renewal credits not only validates the program’s value but also underscores the state’s leadership in addressing the cyber challenges facing water and wastewater utilities. As cyber regulations expand and the sector faces mounting pressure to modernize, investing in people is just as critical as investing in technology.
