May 7, 2026. The American Biogas Council (ABC) announced that 15 additional operator school students have earned their digester operator certification this spring after passing the organization’s rigorous Operator Certification exam. This latest cohort brings the total number of Certified Digester Operators nationwide to 75, further strengthening the skilled workforce that supports the safe and reliable operation of biogas systems across the United States.
Certified Digester Operators play a critical role in ensuring anaerobic digesters run safely and efficiently. These systems capture methane-rich biogas from organic materials such as manure, food waste, and wastewater solids as they break down. That biogas can then be used to generate electricity and heat, fuel vehicles, or produce renewable natural gas. The process also yields a rich organic fertilizer, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic soil nutrients.
The ABC’s Operator Certification is the only program of its kind in North America. Developed and taught by leading experts from industry and academia, the curriculum builds the technical skills operators need for safe, effective, and long-term success in the biogas industry. Passing the exam verifies that operators meet rigorous industry standards for the safe and effective management of anaerobic digestion systems.
To qualify for certification, candidates must complete the Operator School training course, demonstrate at least 2,000 hours of relevant operations experience, and hold first aid, confined space, and lockout/tagout certifications before sitting for the exam.
“We’re helping ensure that the thousands of biogas facilities across the country operate safely, efficiently, and at their full potential — delivering more American-made energy while recycling more of the waste we produce,” said Patrick Serfass, Executive Director of the American Biogas Council. “By expanding our network of Certified Digester Operators, the US can recycle more organic waste into reliable energy and valuable fertilizer.”
Digester operators earning their certification this spring include professionals from AMP Americas, BTS Bioenergy, Carbon Cycle North Carolina, CH4 Biogas, de Jong Family Farms, DTE Biomass Energy, Township of Neptune Sewerage Authority, Qualco Energy, and TECO People’s Gas.