Creating the MS4CECI Online Course with Luke Owen from NPDES Training Institute

Stormwater World Episode 034: Creating the MS4CECI Online Course with Luke Owen from NPDES Training Institute.

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Key Points Discussed

• [00:01:00] Introduction to MS4CECI: Luke explains the acronym and how the course covers both compliance and enforcement aspects of the MS4 operator's job. "The MS4 operator has to comply with their permits, but they also have to enforce as part of their job." — Luke Owen
• [00:03:00] The Role of Effective Training: Luke shares his belief that effective education and training are critical for clean surface water, emphasizing the importance of motivational techniques in teaching. "I really believe that we all want clean water... you've got to connect with people and inspire them along the way." — Luke Owen
• [00:05:30] The Evolution of Stormwater Regulations: Luke reflects on his experience working in different states and the differences in stormwater enforcement across regions, particularly in the West and Southeast U.S. "When I moved here [Georgia] 20 years ago, I had no idea the impacts of stormwater." — Luke Owen
• [00:17:00] Transitioning to Online Training: Despite initial reluctance, Luke discusses the challenges and successes of moving from in-person training to creating the MS4CECI online course. "I thought you cannot be as effective online, but you do the best you can." — Luke Owen
• [00:20:00] Course Structure and Target Audience: Luke talks about who the MS4CECI course is designed for, from DOTs to military bases and private consultants. "It's not just cities and counties; it's military bases, DOTs, and consultants." — Luke Owen
• [00:32:00] The Importance of Understanding Permits: Luke highlights how inspectors need to understand their permits thoroughly and adapt to their specific regional conditions. "The procedure doesn’t change, but the permit conditions vary across the country." — Luke Owen
• [00:41:00] Final Thoughts on the Course: Ty and Luke wrap up the discussion, emphasizing the importance of ongoing training and how this course serves as a tool to equip MS4 inspectors. "Gratitude drives compliance. The MS4 inspector is the foundation of our future water quality." — Luke Owen

Notable Quotes:

Luke Owen: "Effective training digs down into more than just presenting data. You’ve got to hit the motivation within all of us." "The MS4 inspector is the foundation of our future water quality." "It’s really tough to continue traveling. I thought, what if I could package all my knowledge and deliver it to the masses?"

In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon speaks with Luke Owen, founder of NPDES Training Institute, about the creation of the MS4CECI (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Compliance and Enforcement Certified Inspector) online course. Luke shares insights from his 30 years of experience in stormwater management and explains how this course is designed to train MS4 inspectors on both compliance and enforcement. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from in-person to online training and emphasizes the importance of effective, motivational education for stormwater professionals. The episode highlights the course's practical applications for inspectors across various sectors, including cities, counties, DOTs, and private consultants.

The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future.

Connect with T Luke Owen: LinkedI