Operator Appreciation Day
Recognizing Tennessee’s Water & Wastewater OperatorsOperator Appreciation Day 2026
Celebrating the Professionals Who Keep Tennessee Flowing
Every day, Tennessee's water and wastewater operators protect public health, safeguard our environment, and keep essential services running. Operator Appreciation Day is our opportunity to recognize your dedication, celebrate your profession, and thank you for the vital work you do.
Join operators from across the state for a day of continuing education, networking, recognition, and fun.
Thursday, October 29, 2026
Middle Tennessee State University | Student Union Ballroom | Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Free to Attend
Why Attend?
What You Can Expect
Operator Appreciation Day is designed specifically for Tennessee's certified water and wastewater operators. Throughout the day you'll have opportunities to:
- Earn 6 hours of continuing education (CE) credit
- Connect with operators from across Tennessee
- Meet industry exhibitors and partners
- Learn about new resources and programs
- Celebrate the important work you do every day
- Enjoy games, prizes, giveaways, and a complimentary lunch at MTSU's McCallie's Dining Hall
Whether you're new to the profession or have decades of experience, we look forward to celebrating with you.
Registration
Reserve Your Spot
Operator Appreciation Day is free, but registration is required.
Who Should Register
This event is open to Tennessee operators in:
- Water Treatment
- Wastewater Treatment
- Water Distribution
- Wastewater Collection
How to Register
- Select Register Now.
- Complete the online registration form.
- Check your email for your confirmation and event updates.
If you hold multiple certifications, you'll have the opportunity during registration to select which certification should receive your continuing education credit.
Know Before You Go
Continuing Education
Attend three educational sessions and the closing ceremony to receive 6 hours of continuing education credit.
Name Badge
Your name badge is required for session attendance and CE tracking throughout the day.
Prize Drawings
Prize winners must be present during the closing ceremony.
What Your Day Looks Like
7:30 AM
Registration and Check-In
Morning
Opening Ceremony, Exhibitors, and Educational Sessions
Lunch
Complimentary lunch and networking
Afternoon
Educational Sessions, Exhibitors, and Games
Closing Ceremony
Recognition, prize drawings, and CE verification
A detailed agenda will be provided at check-in.
Doors open at 7:30 AM.
Visit the registration desk outside the Student Union Ballroom on the second floor to check in. You'll receive your:
- Name badge
- Event schedule
- Additional event information
Please wear your badge throughout the event.
Parking is free for registered attendees.
Detailed parking instructions, including the parking permit code and campus map, will be emailed to registered attendees before the event.
Coffee and water will be availble throughout the day at assigned beverage stations.
Lunch is included at no cost for all registered attendees.
This year, lunch will be served at McCallie's Dining Hall, located on the second floor of the Keathley University Center (KUC) at Middle Tennessee State University.
Please note that the dining hall is approximately a 10-minute walk (one way) from the Student Union Ballroom, where Operator Appreciation Day activities will be held. We encourage attendees to wear comfortable shoes and allow enough time to walk to and from lunch.
The walk also provides a great opportunity to connect with fellow operators and exhibitors throughout the day.
If you do not wish to eat at the dining hall you may purchase your own meals in the restaurants located downstairs. Choices include: Bento Sushi, Panda Express, Nashville Chicken & Waffles, Blendz Bowls, and P.O.D. Express (convenient store).
A golf cart shuttle will be available for those who need it.
We're planning plenty of opportunities to relax, have fun, and connect with fellow operators throughout the day.
Expect friendly competition, interactive activities, giveaways, and chances to win prizes.
We'll save a few surprises for the event!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does registration close?
A: Registration closes at 11:59 PM (Central Time) on October 15, 2026.
Q: Can I register at the event?
A: No. Registration must be completed online before the registration deadline.
Q: Will I receive continuing education credit?
A: Yes. Operators who attend all educational sessions and the closing ceremony will receive 6 hours of continuing education credit.
Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes. Parking is free for registered attendees. Parking instructions and permit information will be emailed before the event.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Just yourself! We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and bringing any questions you'd like to ask our staff, exhibitors, or fellow operators.
Q: Will this event be ADA accessible?
A: Yes. The MTSU Student Union is fully ADA accessible. Elevator access is available from the main atrium.
Q: Where will lunch be served?
A: Lunch is provided at no charge for all registered attendees at McCallie's Dining Hall on the second floor of the Keathley University Center (KUC). The dining hall is approximately a 10-minute walk (one way) from the Student Union Ballroom. Please plan accordingly and wear comfortable shoes.
Dining Locations - Middle Tennessee State University
Q: Can I smoke or use tobacco products?
A: No. MTSU is a tobacco-free campus.