The WQA Convention & Expo is defined by shared moments that bring the industry together throughout the week. From daily touchpoints that set the tone to conversations that build from one day to the next, these experiences create a sense of connection and purpose. From impactful education to energizing connections, discover the experiences shaping the Convention in 2026.
Keynote session
Take Action: Owning Your Influence in Water Quality
Keynote speaker Michael bonner
Tuesday, April 28 | 3:30 p.m. ET
Water quality professionals solve problems most people never see – protecting families, building trust, and strengthening public health – but, too often, that expertise stays behind the scenes. This transformative keynote speech challenges water quality professionals to step forward with confidence, shifting from quiet technical experts to visible, trusted leaders.
Drawing on insights from literacy, AI, emotional intelligence, culture, and systems thinking, speaker Michael Bonner unpacks the mindset shifts and practical strategies that turn adversity into achievement. You’ll leave empowered to claim your role as an essential influencer in water quality, redefine what’s possible for your career and community, and take action that creates meaningful, measurable impact. Don’t miss it: The industry needs your leadership, and the world needs your voice.
The Speaker
Michael Bonner is a renowned leader, innovator, and performance booster, who is a trailblazer in leadership development and organizational culture. He is a dynamic keynote speaker as seen on The Ellen Show, NBC Nightly News, and Time for Kids and a recent recipient of Atlanta’s 40 under 40 awards . He is the CEO of Bonnerville, a business that promotes the value of self-care, and a highly respected team member at the famed Ron Clark Academy.
Expand your business, make important connections
Lunch-and-Learn with WQRF: Smarter Solutions for Small Public Water Systems
Tuesday, April 28 | 12:15 p.m.
Discover how the Water Quality Research Foundation is establishing critical connections between POU/POE solutions and funding pathways for small public water systems, making Safe Drinking Water Act compliance achievable and sustainable. This exclusive luncheon brings data, policy, and resources together for real-world impact as you enjoy Cuban-inspired cuisine and a warm Havana vibe.
Tickets are $65 and can be purchased with your Convention registration. Seats are limited, so reserve your spot early to be part of the conversation!
Engaging General Sessions
The General Sessions are where the Convention comes together each day to step back, look at the bigger picture, and engage in the conversations shaping the water quality industry right now. These shared daily experiences create space for learning, reflection, and dialogue around the issues that matter most, from emerging challenges to new opportunities on the horizon.
Curiosity to Capability: Practical AI for Water Businesses
Tuesday, April 28 | 8:00 a.m.
AI isn’t just for large tech-companies. It’s becoming a practical tool for water treatment, plumbing, and home service companies navigating scheduling bottlenecks, reactive service calls, compliance headaches, and inconsistent workflows. This session cuts through the hype and focuses on real-world applications for our industry. Join WQA Vice President Greg Reyneke, MWS, and a panel of industry leaders for a candid, practical discussion about what’s working now, what’s emerging, and where AI can create immediate value in water quality operations.
The Influence of Kindness
Wednesday, April 29 | 10:00 a.m.
Join water industry leader Doug Ramer, MWS, CWR, as he shares how empowering employees to deliver simple acts of kindness can become a powerful form of influence, shaping customer experiences, strengthening community relationships, and elevating the reputation of water quality professionals. Doug shows how intentional, people‑first service creates meaningful impact and inspires teams to lead with empathy, purpose, and positive influence in every interaction.
Deal Breaker or Deal Maker? Water Quality’s Role in Home Sales
Thursday, April 30 | 8:30 a.m.
Many water treatment purchases happen after the closing— but what would happen to days-on-market, buyer confidence, and deal certainty if we flipped that script? In this live interview, WQA CEO Pauli Undesser sits down with Russell Riggs, Director of Environmental and Sustainability Policy of the National Association of Realtors, to explore the unseen fault lines where water quality meets real estate: “Forever chemicals” headlines, slow lead service line replacements, taste/odor “aesthetics” that feel like health, and the gray area between inspection, disclosure and fear. You’ll hear stories from the field, challenge sacred cows, and get to vote—live—on the most controversial fixes. Warning: We’ll bust myths. We’ll name the elephants. And we’ll suggest plays that both industries can run together.
Relax, Recharge and Connect
Networking Reception
Wednesday, April 29 | 5 p.m.
Step into the laid-back pulse of Miami as you experience networking with a sharper edge. Set against the energy of Miami Beach, this reception follows a busy day at the Expo with refreshing drinks, open conversation, and a casual scene that makes it easy to catch up with colleagues, meet new faces, and unwind. Connect, reset, and enjoy a distinct Miami moment!
Expo Brunch
Make the Most of the Expo
Thursday, April 30 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Expo Brunch returns to the WQA Convention & Expo for a second great year. Exhibitors will host a variety of food and beverage options alongside interactive experiences for you to enjoy as you make your way around the Expo floor. It’s an easy, engaging way to discover new products and connect with exhibitors as you make the most of your time at the Convention.