An ongoing staff training program and a comprehensive maintenance management system are evolving as a result of recently constructed water treatment plants on the island of Trinidad. With approximately 130 trained technical staff needed to operate the treatment systems, an accelerated four-phase training program was initiated. Local water system engineer and superintendent trainees were sent to the United States for specialized classes and plant tours; a full-time operator trainer was employed; and, with guidance from outside consultants, operators and maintenance technicians are being trained in specializations by equipment manufacturers and suppliers.