QCI Program Celebrates 20 Years of Environmental Training

MOBILE, Ala. — On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, Thompson Engineering celebrated a major milestone: the 20th anniversary of its Qualified Credentialed Inspector (QCI) program. Launched in 2005, the QCI program has since become a gold standard in stormwater compliance training, preparing more than 8,820 students across 36 states to serve as front-line defenders of natural waterways. These trained inspectors play a vital role in ensuring construction site runoff meets environmental standards.

The anniversary celebration, held at the company’s Mobile, Alabama, headquarters, brought together staff, trainers, alumni and supporters to honor two decades of progress and passion. Guests enjoyed a celebratory atmosphere with cake, interactive games and prize giveaways. More importantly, the event offered a chance to reflect on the program’s enduring impact. Special tribute was paid to Carl Pinyerd, the late founder and inaugural instructor, whose legacy lives on through QCI certificate T0001, the very first issued.

Also recognized was Cindy Roton, QCI training program coordinator, whose leadership from the program’s earliest days has been instrumental to its continued success. Roton’s dedication helped shape a curriculum that is now available through multiple channels, including live instruction, hybrid offerings and online training modules. Unlike many other QCI programs that follow a standard curriculum, Thompson Engineering’s training was developed in-house to address evolving stormwater regulations and the specific needs of its students. Her tireless work ensured the program grew alongside these evolving requirements, equipping thousands of professionals to stay ahead of compliance expectations.

QCI courses focus on practical knowledge and real-world implementation, helping participants understand erosion and sediment control, inspection protocols and reporting standards. The program’s commitment to excellence has not only helped safeguard sensitive ecosystems, but it has also supported contractors, municipalities and engineers in navigating complex compliance landscapes. For more information on the types of courses available, visit the QCI class listings or registration page.

Looking forward, the QCI program is undergoing a dynamic evolution. The company plans to restructure the initial online training into an instructor-led livestream format, offering more interactive experiences for participants nationwide. A lunch-and-learn session planned for later this year will provide details on how the new structure will enhance accessibility and engagement. In tandem, Thompson Engineering is also recruiting internal talent to become the next generation of QCI instructors. Among those preparing to lead the program into its next chapter is Ilka Porter, Environmental Training Coordinator for Thompson Engineering. Porter, who brings a strong background in environmental education, will take over leadership of the QCI program following Cindy Roton’s retirement later this year. These efforts will ensure that the knowledge and values built over the last two decades are passed on with consistency and care.

The success of the QCI program reflects not only industry demand, but also a long-standing commitment to environmental excellence and workforce training. As regulatory standards continue to tighten and public focus sharpens on sustainability, programs like QCI are more important than ever. Thompson Engineering’s investment in this training ensures communities, companies and ecosystems alike benefit from better-informed construction practices.

Thompson Engineering provides training in construction stormwater pollution prevention regulations and requirements, as well as practical instruction in performance-oriented best management practice (BMP) inspection and maintenance. Thompson Engineering is certified by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) as a training provider for the QCI program.

Celebrating 20 years of QCI is more than marking time. It is a testament to Thompson Engineering’s enduring leadership in compliance education, sustainability, and workforce development. As the company continues expanding its reach and evolving its services, the QCI program stands as a clear reflection of its commitment to building a safer, more environmentally responsible future.