Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What is the Arkansas Environmental Training Academy (AETA)?

    AETA is the mandated Environmental Training Center for the State of Arkansas, providing training and education for environmental professionals working in municipal and industrial facilities.

  • What is AETA’s mission?

    The Arkansas Environmental Training Academy (AETA) is the mandated Environmental Training Center for the State of Arkansas. Our mission is to provide quality training and educational programs to aid the management and operating staff of municipal and industrial facilities in meeting state and federal licensing and certification requirements. Within its resources, the Academy accomplishes its mission through comprehensive certification and continuing education programs, administration and student services, and professional development for faculty and staff. The Academy provides training on the SAU Tech Campus, at training locations statewide, Internet, and Zoom Streaming technologies.

  • Where is AETA located?

    AETA is located in Camden, Arkansas, on the SAU Tech campus. Physical Address: 6287 Spellman Road Camden, Arkansas 71701

  • What are your regular business hours?

    Regular hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and Friday from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

  • What are your summer hours?

    Summer hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The office is closed on Fridays.

  • What types of training does AETA offer?

    AETA offers certification preparation, continuing education, and professional training across multiple environmental disciplines.

  • What training divisions are available?

    AETA provides training through five divisions: Water, Wastewater, Backflow Prevention, Solid Waste, and Environmental Health & Safety.

  • Who should attend AETA training programs?

    Training is designed for operators, technicians, managers, and professionals working in municipal and industrial environmental systems.

  • Do your programs help with certification?

    Yes, AETA provides certification preparation and continuing education to help professionals meet licensing requirements.

  • Can I take courses to maintain my certification?

    Yes, AETA offers continuing education courses to help professionals maintain required certifications.

  • What skills will I gain from AETA training?

    Participants gain practical, job-ready skills, improve technical knowledge, and stay current with regulations and industry best practices.

  • Are courses focused on real-world applications?

    Yes, training emphasizes hands-on, practical instruction that can be directly applied in the workplace.

  • Do courses cover regulatory requirements?

    Yes, all training aligns with current state and federal regulations to support compliance.

  • Where are training courses held?

    Training is offered on the SAU Tech campus, at locations statewide, online, and through live virtual instruction.

  • Are online or virtual training options available?

    Yes, AETA offers both online courses and live virtual (Zoom) training options.

  • Can I attend training while working full-time?

    Yes, flexible training formats allow professionals to participate while continuing to work.

  • Are training opportunities available across Arkansas?

    Yes, AETA provides statewide access through in-person, online, and virtual training options.

  • How does AETA support career growth?

    AETA helps professionals gain certifications, expand skills, and advance in their careers through industry-focused training.

  • How does AETA benefit Arkansas communities?

    By training qualified professionals, AETA helps ensure environmental systems are managed safely, effectively, and in compliance with regulations.

  • How can I get started with training?

    You can get started by viewing the course schedule, selecting a program, and registering for training.

  • Do you offer facility rentals?

    Yes, AETA offers facility rental options for meetings, training sessions, and other professional events. Availability and details may vary, so please contact us for more information.

  • Do you have a refund or cancellation policy?

    Yes, AETA has a refund and cancellation policy for its training programs. Specific terms may vary by course, so participants are encouraged to review the policy or contact us for details.

  • Do I need previous experience to enroll in a course?

    No. Many of our programs are designed for individuals entering the industry for the first time, while other courses are intended for experienced professionals seeking advanced certifications, renewal training, or career advancement opportunities.

  • What types of careers can these courses prepare me for?

    Our training programs support careers in:


    • Water & Wastewater Operations
    • Environmental Compliance
    • Public Works
    • Utility Management
    • Backflow Prevention
    • Environmental Health & Safety
    • Solid Waste Management
    • Industrial Operations
    • OSHA & Safety Compliance

    Career opportunities may include operator positions, compliance technicians, safety coordinators, environmental officers, utility supervisors, and other specialized technical roles.

  • Are these courses only for municipal employees or studnets?

    No. Our programs are designed for a wide range of industries including municipalities, utilities, contractors, industrial facilities, environmental firms, construction companies, and private sector organizations.

  • Who should I contact about registration for scheduled classes ?

    Please contact Kronda Page at kpage@sautech.edu or 870-574-4550.

  • Who should I contact with questions about payment or invoicing?

    Please contact Christy Smith at csmith@sautech.edu or 870-574-4769.

  • Who should I contact if I have questions about Zoom links?

    Please contact Symone Smith at ssmith@sautech.edu or 870-574-4589.