Operator Appreciation Day

Recognizing Tennessee’s Water & Wastewater Operators

Every day, water and wastewater operators protect public health, support community growth, and ensure reliable infrastructure. Operator Appreciation Day (OAD) is our way of saying thank you.

Join us for a day of recognition, education, and connection. Whether you’re new to the field or have decades of experience, this event is for YOU.

Operator Appreciation Day 2025

Your Day. Your Celebration.

We’re celebrating the operators who keep Tennessee’s water safe and systems running. Expect education, networking, recognition, and fun - with food, games, and giveaways along the way.

Thursday October 30th, 2025 - Middle Tennessee  State University

MTSU Student Union Ballroom
1768 MTSU Blvd
Murfreesboro, TN 37130

Reserve Your Spot for OAD 2025

How to Register

  1. Click the “Register Here” button above.
  2. Complete the short online form.
  3. Check your email for confirmation and additional details.

Registration is free and includes:

  • Full access to all sessions and activities
  • Lunch provided on-site
  • Continuing Education (CE) tracking for eligible certifications
  • Entry for a 3-day / 2-night stay at any Tennessee State Park lodge or cabin
Blog Banner for Website Content (1200 x 400 px) - 3

Plan Your Day

Want the full agenda with session times? Download the schedule and map out your day.

 Download the Operator Appreciation Day 2025 Schedule

 Schedule subject to change. The latest version will be provided at check-in.

Who Should Register

OAD is designed for Tennessee operators in:

  • Water Treatment
  • Wastewater Treatment
  • Water Distribution Systems
  • Wastewater Collection Systems

Registration Deadline

Registration to attend closes on October 19, 2025, at 11:59 PM CDT.

Seats are limited, so secure your spot early to ensure your CEs are processed without delay.


Tip: If you have multiple certifications, you’ll have a chance during registration to select which certification you’d like your CEs applied to.

Know Before You Go

  • CEs are only awarded to those who attend all three sessions and the closing ceremony
  • Badge turn-in will take place during the closing ceremony
  • Must be present for prize drawings

Select a topic below for more information on each subject.

  • Doors open: 7:30 AM
  • Check-in location: Event registration desk outside the Student Union Ballroom, 2nd floor.
  • When you check in, you’ll receive your name badge, and a full schedule.
  • Your name badge is required for session attendance and CE tracking.

Directions

  • Enter campus from Greenland Drive
  • Turn onto Blue Raider Drive
  • After the first roundabout, take the next right into the event parking lot
  • If you reach a second roundabout, you’ve gone too far and will need to turn around

Parking

  • Parking is free for attendees

More information on updated MTSU procedures will be provided closer to the day of the event.

  • Boxed lunches will be available on-site during the lunch break
  • Vegetarian options will be available
  • You are also welcome to purchase your own food at the Student Union restaurants on the first floor

We’ve planned some interactive activities and games throughout the day… but we’re keeping the details under wraps for now.

Let’s just say you’ll have plenty of chances to laugh, compete, and maybe even win something.

Frequently Asked Questions

Registration

Q: When is registration cut off for Operators?
A: Operators may register until October 19, 2025 at 11:59 PM CST.

Q: Can I register in person on October 30, 2025?
A: No. All registrations must be submitted online before the deadline.

Parking & Accessibility

Q: What if there are no more parking spaces?
A: Parking policies are currently changing at MTSU. Updated parking details will be emailed to all registered attendees before the event.

Q: Will this event be ADA accessible?
A: Yes. Enter the MTSU Student Union atrium and follow posted signs for elevator access to the second floor.

Food & Dining

Q: What’s for lunch?
A: Boxed lunches will be provided at no charge. Vegetarian options will be available.

Q: Can I purchase my own food instead?
A: Absolutely. To view options available on the first floor of the Student Union Building, visit the link below
Dining Locations - Middle Tennessee State University

Other

Q: Where can I smoke?
A: MTSU is a tobacco-free campus. There are no designated smoking areas.

Q: Will there be games or activities?
A: Yes. Expect plenty of opportunities to have fun and maybe even win something.