The Tennessee Comptroller’s Office sets the training requirements for utility board members. All details and FAQs related to training requirements are detailed on their website. 

1. Initial Training 
   • Each board member must complete 12 hours of utility training within 12 months of their initial appointment or election to the board.
2. Continuing Education and Training
   • After completing the initial 12 hours of training, each board member must complete 6 hours of continuing education within three years. MTAS recommends completing two (2) hours of training per year. This keeps training requirements top-of-mind and supports ongoing proficiency in utility governance related matters. 

• MTAS Training Opportunities: MTAS provides several training opportunities that may be approved for utility training. To view current offerings, visit our training calendar. 
• Tennessee Comptroller's Training Offerings: The Comptroller’s Office provides more than 12 hours of free, self-paced online training. This training can only be completed one-time for either initial or continuing education requirements. For questions about their online training, contact the Comptroller’s Office at (615) 747-5260 or utilities@cot.tn.gov. 
• Other Training Opportunities: Boards may opt to provide in-house training or source training from other training providers. Note that training must be approved in advance by the Comptroller’s Office using their online utility training approval form.

MTAS does not track or maintain board member progress towards their utility training requirement. As a training provider, MTAS provides documentation of completed training only.

Board members are responsible for maintaining documentation of completed training and continuing education. The Comptroller’s Office provides an annual training statement to make documenting utility training easier. Board members should provide a copy to their municipality and keep the original for their records. As a best practice, MTAS recommends utility board members aim to complete two  hours per year to satisfy the continuing education requirement.