The department shall, with the assistance and advice of the Water and Wastewater Works Advisory Board, provide a water and wastewater works operator training program. The purpose of this program is to provide mechanisms for water and wastewater works operators to become certified under the provisions of this chapter and for certified operators to maintain and improve their competency in operating water and wastewater systems or facilities. The department shall coordinate and cooperate with educational institutions and other organizations or individuals in the administration of this section.