Every year, hundreds of people attend their very first WQA Convention & Expo. If this is your first time joining us, we want you to take full advantage of everything the event offers. From education sessions to the trade show floor to meaningful networking opportunities, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience.
The Convention website AND APP ARE YOUR FRIEND
The Convention website and app are your go-to tools for planning your experience. You can explore the Expo floor map, review the full education schedule, and create your own personal agenda before you arrive. The app also makes it easy to connect with other attendees, schedule meetings, and find meeting locations around the venue.
ENJOY A VIP CONVENTION EXPERIENCE – ON US!
If you’re coming to the Convention & Expo with business in mind, the Hosted Water Pros Program was designed for you. This curated program connects water quality professionals directly with the companies, technologies, and partners shaping the industry— while giving you a more personalized convention experience. If you’re accepted and meet program requirements, you’ll receive complimentary Convention registration and a $750 travel stipend, plus access to exclusive networking events with fellow Hosted Water Pros and sponsors. Spots are limited. Check out the details and apply today!
REGISTER FOR WALK FOR WATER
Ready to step up? Registration for WQRF’s Walk for Water is $25 per walker and supports critical water research. You can sign up as an individual, register a team or invite your entire office to participate. Once registered, you’ll receive instructions for downloading the Pacer Health app and details on how to track your steps April 28–30. Whether you’re walking at home, at the office, on the beach, or at Convention, every step counts toward advancing water research.
Boost your skills
The convention offers 50+ hours of education sessions and other learning opportunities on topics ranging from water contaminants to chloride discharge to marketing to business operations topics. If you’re certified, many of the sessions offer Continuing Professional Development toward your certification. Check out the full schedule and make note of what you want to attend and how much credit you can earn.
ARRIVE READY TO HIT THE GROUND RUNNING
Convention kicks off with an Opening General Session at 8 a.m. April 28, so you should arrive in Miami Beach by Monday evening to rest and prepare for a busy first day. You can head over to the Miami Beach Convention Center as early as 7 a.m. Tuesday to pick up your badge, get familiar with the venue layout, greet your colleagues and get a seat, starting your experience relaxed and focused!
A GREAT PLACE TO START: THE LEAD ENGAGEMENT NETWORK
Feeling energized after the opening general session but not sure what’s next? The LEAD Engagement Network offers a two‑part networking experience designed to help you meet new people and make meaningful connections. Join the first session Tuesday, April 28 from 9:30–10:15 a.m., then return that afternoon to learn how to turn those introductions into connections that don’t end when the event does.
LUNCH AND LEARN WITH WQRF: SMARTER SOLUTIONS FOR SMALL PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS
This special lunch session takes place Tuesday, April 28 from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. and explores how the Water Quality Research Foundation is connecting point-of-use and point-of-entry solutions with funding pathways for small public water systems. Hear practical insights and real-world examples while enjoying Cuban-inspired cuisine and a Havana vibe. Seats are limited and tickets are $65 with convention registration, so reserve your spot early.
RECONNECT AT THE NETWORKING RECEPTION
This night of drinks, appetizers, music and networking takes place Wednesday, April 29 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is included with your convention registration. It is a great way to meet fellow attendees in a relaxed setting. Catch up with colleagues, reconnect with friends from across the industry, or introduce yourself to someone new and start conversations that could last long after the event ends.
EXPLORE THE EXPO FLOOR
The Expo is where innovation meets opportunity. Meet vendors and suppliers, discover new technologies, and connect with companies offering solutions for your business. Be sure to stop by WQA Central with any questions about certification, training, membership, or the Water Quality Research Foundation.