36th Annual Water Distribution Seminar and Utility Rodeo
October 5 - 7, 2026
Newport News, VA
Hosted by the Distribution Systems Committee, this traditional "hands-on" seminar is designed to provide distribution system personnel with practical information on relevant subjects. The ever-popular Utility Rodeo provides various utility-related competitive events in which participants compete against fellow utility personnel in demonstrations of skill, speed, and safety.
Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities are available!
All attendees are responsible for their own lodging arrangements. A block of rooms has been reserved at a special rate of $110. The hotel rate expires September 11 or when the block is full; whichever comes first.
Fall 2026 Plant Operations Seminar
October 28, 2026
Blue Ridge Community College
Weyers Cave, Virginia
We hope you will join us for the annual Fall Plant Operations Seminar at Blue Ridge Community College in Weyers Cave, Virginia (just south of Harrisonburg!) This is a one-day seminar is packed with plenty of opportunities for meaningful networking, professional development, and a tour of the Harrisonburg water treatment facility. This year's line up of topics include tank coatings, decanter centrifuges for solids handling, best lab practices, and more!
Attendees are expected to earn 6 CPEs for Water Operators and 6 CECs for Professional Engineers.
Sponsorship opportunities are available!
Don't miss out on this great opportunity to learn, network, and keep your professional development moving forward this fall.
Virginia Young Professional Summit
October 29, 2026
The Cultural Arts Center
Glen Allen, Virginia
Join the VA AWWA | VWEA Young Professionals Committee for the 2nd Annual Virginia Young Professionals (YP) Summit! This exciting event will bring together YPs from across the state to connect, learn, and grow alongside experienced leaders in the water industry and their peers. This year’s summit focuses on leadership, mentorship, and career development, offering valuable insights and interactive experiences designed to support emerging professionals.
2nd Annual Ripple Effect Round Table: Virginia's Water Resources
November 4, 2026
The Place at Innsbrook
Glen Allen, VA
The Water Resources and Environment Committee invites you to a one-day seminar focused on the most pressing water resource issues facing our region.
This event offers a unique opportunity to learn from leading experts, engage in meaningful discussions, and network with fellow professionals in the water industry.
Topics of discussion include regional water planning, reclaimed water, data centers, planning districts, modeling, and more!
Secure your spot and be part of the ripple effect shaping Virginia's water future!
Excellence in Customer Service:
A Water Sector
Certification Training
December 3 - 4, 2026
Newport News, VA
This AWWA training goes beyond communication and customer service! Participants will also gain a foundational understanding of water treatment and utility operations, giving them a deeper appreciation for what it takes to deliver safe, high-quality water every day.
Facilitated by Jim Ginley, Primary Author of the AWWA Customer Service Training Program, this training will provide valuable skills, practical knowledge, and a fresh perspective...all while earning your AWWA Customer Service Certification.
Hear from the Virginia Section AWWA Utility Rodeo 2025 Meters Challenge winner, Jacob Harrison, following his impressive 3rd place finish at the national competition at ACE26. Learn what it means to represent Virginia on the national stage and discover the benefits of competing in the Utility Rodeo!
Ready to show off your skill? Sign up to compete in the Utility Rodeo today!
Much of the Commonwealth is still experiencing drought conditions. AWWA offers members access to a series of resources including guides on communications and marketing, local ordinance enforcement, and the Drought Preparedness and Response manual.
The new Water Conservation Communications and Marketing Strategies Guide (updated from its 2010 version) provides water conservation professionals and utility staff with the foundational knowledge, examples, and resources to establish strategies that effectively communicate conservation efforts to their customers.
The countdown is on! We can't wait to see you at JAM soon! Eddy's journey is wrapping up with visits to GHD and Newport News Waterworks. Don't forget to stop by the Virginia Section AWWA membership booth to see all of Eddy's travels and pick up some member exclusive swag!
Eddy got an inside look at GHD’s work supporting the construction of a new elevated water storage tank. He even rolled up his sleeves to help the Automation Engineer review control panel drawings before heading to the site to test the signals that will be used to monitor and control the well pump and tank. Eddy may have discovered a new talent for programming!
Then, Eddy stopped by Newport News Waterworks for a behind-the-scenes look at their facility. He helped the operators with monitoring the SCADA system, calibrating chemical pumps, inspected the new GAC media and water pumps, and more!
After a quick reading break, Eddy suited up for some Utility Rodeo practice before hitting the road for Virginia Beach - his final stop before WaterJAM!
