Irrigation Association Launches Updated CLIA and CGIA Exams

New and revised questions based on job analyses

FALLS CHURCH, VA. (Dec. 10, 2010) — The Irrigation Association’s Select Certified program has introduced new versions of its certified irrigation auditor exams for both landscape and golf professionals. The new CLIA exam was launched at the 2010 Irrigation Show and the new CGIA exam was introduced in October.

The updated exams contain new and revised questions based on a job analysis of irrigation professionals; the survey ensures that exam content is relevant to the real world and eliminates regional differences. The new exam contains 125 questions that must be completed within the three-hour time limit. Certification candidates still need to complete and pass a field audit prior to earning the designation.

“IA’s Select Certified designations, like any reputable certification program, signify that an irrigation professional has not only achieved a certain level of knowledge but continues to keep that knowledge current,” said Wayne Eckas, chair of IA’s Certification Board. “The process of updating these exams ensures that certified professionals have a minimum level of knowledge in both best practices as well as field experience.”

Like all IA certifications, individuals passing the updated CLIA and CGIA certification programs will be required to earn and submit continuing education units in order to maintain their certification.

After the initial launch of the new exams, IA’s Certification Board will hold and review all results for approximately six weeks to analyze statistical data and determine a passing score. Once the passing score has been established, exam results will be shared with candidates.

The updating of these certification programs also advances the Select Certified program’s long-term goal of accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. The IA program also recently announced a move to computer-based testing, available at testing centers throughout North America, in pursuit of this goal.

For more information visit www.irrigation.org/certification.

About The Irrigation Association

The Irrigation Association is the leading membership organization for irrigation companies and professionals. Together with our members, we are committed to promoting efficient irrigation and to long-term sustainability of water resources for future generations. IA works to improve industry proficiency, advocate sound water management, and grow demand for water-efficient products and services. For more information, visit www.irrigation.org.