What Is the ‘Do It Proper with Copper’ Training Program?

Utilities across the country continue to take action to remove lead service lines. As critical as it is to make timely replacements, doing the job correctly is just as important. That’s where Do It Proper with Copper comes in.

This free, in-person training program offered by the Copper Development Association (CDA) is designed to help water service crews and contractors install copper service lines with confidence and precision. It can be tailored to your needs with class room and hands on, grounded in current standards and best practices—exactly what’s needed as infrastructure investments ramp up.

The training is led by Harold Moret, CDA’s Project Manager and Piping Applications Specialist. With over 38 years in the plumbing, mechanical, and building trades, Harold has trained everyone from installers and inspectors to engineers and code officials. He’s also an active member of ASPE, PHCC, ICC, IAPMO, and several industry groups. Harold understands the technical side of copper and how to tailor the training to the unique conditions teams face on the ground.

Whether launching a major replacement program or simply wanting to ensure your crews are aligned on best practices, this training can be built with your team in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Much Does It Cost?

Nothing. The training is offered free of charge.

Because CDA is a not-for-profit trade association funded by its members, there is no cost to qualifying municipalities or utility partners. In some cases, where the training must be customized to a commercial project or an engineered specification, CDA may discuss cost-sharing. But for public LSL replacement programs, there’s no invoice—just results.

This training is intended to support utilities doing critical infrastructure work, without adding extra financial strain.

2. What Does the Training Cover?

Whether delivered in person or virtually, the Do It Proper with Copper training covers the essential components of underground copper installation. It’s also fully customizable—training can be tailored to your project needs, crew size, and regional code requirements. Not every topic needs to be included; we’ll focus on what’s most relevant to your team.

Underground Installation Techniques

• Best practices for handling, bending, and installing copper tubing in trench or directional boring conditions
• Tips for preventing corrosion and material degradation
• Guidance on soil conditions, backfill selection, and proper trench compaction

Connection Methods

• Correct use of flaring, compression, and brazing fittings
• Specific requirements for approved joints and connections
• Why soldering is rarely used underground—and alternative approaches that meet code

Material Science & System Longevity

• An overview of copper’s full lifecycle—from mining to installation
• Environmental and technical factors that impact copper’s durability underground
• Common causes of installation failure and how to prevent them

3. What Format Is the Training Available In?

CDA offers flexible training options to fit the size and scope of your crew or project. In-person sessions, live virtual sessions, and hybrid models are all available, combining classroom learning with shop-based demonstrations when needed. Harold will work directly with you to determine the best format based on your location, crew size, and schedule. Most sessions run between 1 to 3 hours and include time for Q&A, live demonstrations, and resource sharing.

We’ll work with your schedule to make training accessible without disrupting your operations.

4. What Do Attendees Receive?

Participants receive access to a range of practical resources that support the training, including digital guides, reference handouts, optional printed materials, and direct links to copper installation standards and technical specifications. All resources are designed to be easy to access and useful in the field—giving crews a reliable point of reference long after the training is complete.

It’s a toolkit your team can use again and again as new projects come about.

Here’s What Happens When You Reach Out

Wondering how to bring this training to your team? It’s straightforward:

• Step 1: Fill Out the Request Form: Complete the short interest form on CDA’s website: info.copper.org/do-it-proper-with-copper-training

• Step 2: Get a Call from the Expert: Harold Moret will follow up to understand your needs, project size, and preferred delivery method.

• Step 3: Schedule Your Training: Sessions are booked 2–3 months in advance, especially for in-person delivery. If needed sooner, CDA will work with you to explore virtual options.

• Step 4: Receive Your Training: CDA brings decades of copper expertise directly to your team—whether on-site or on screen.

• Step 5: Stay Connected: Once your training is complete, CDA remains available for ongoing support or follow-up sessions. The training often opens doors to additional learning in soldering, brazing, and system troubleshooting.

Why It Matters: Long-Term Benefits for Municipalities

Copper is a proven material for buried water service lines, but its performance depends on proper installation. The Do It Proper with Copper training helps ensure crews install it correctly the first time—reducing costly callbacks, avoiding early failures, and improving overall efficiency. It also supports compliance with federal funding requirements, which are increasingly tied to material standards and installation practices. By reinforcing best practices, the training helps maintain long-term water quality and system reliability. It also gives teams the knowledge to avoid common mistakes with joint selection, handling, and trench work. For municipalities planning large-scale replacements, this no-cost training offers a straightforward way to minimize risk and protect long-term infrastructure investments.

Ready to Get Started?

Sign up for free training today and bring the expertise of CDA directly to your team.