The Opening General Session of WEFTEC—the Water Environment Federation (WEF)’s 88th annual technical exhibition and conference—sets the tone for the water quality event that draws thousands of water professionals and companies from around the world each year. The conference will be held at Chicago's McCormick Place, Sept. 26 to 30. The 2015 plenary features programming built around the theme of “Leading the Water Resource Recovery Revolution.”
At the opening general session Sept. 28 at 8:15 a.m., WEF president Ed McCormick will help set the stage for the keynote presentation by sharing insights into the importance of adopting resource recovery and WEF’s leadership in this sector-wide effort. Keynote Presenter Rob Stewart, an award-winning photographer, conservationist, author, biologist, and director of the documentary, Revolution, will discuss his inspiring efforts to raise awareness about the greatest evolutionary journey in human history and the life-saving revolution that’s now underway.
The world’s largest annual water quality event provides the latest developments, technologies and services for water preservation, restoration and sustainability. The 2015 technical program and exhibition is a toolbox for attendees to build a personalized learning experience by choosing from 135 technical sessions, 29 workshops, seven local facility tours, 17 mobile sessions and numerous high-profile events.
The technical programming will delve into timely water issues within the following focus areas: collection and distribution systems; energy production, conservation and management; facility operations and maintenance and wastewater treatment; industrial issues, including mining and petrochemical industries; oil and gas; innovation; laboratory practices; research; nutrient management; public officials; residuals and biosolids; storm water, green infrastructure and wet weather; utility management; water reclamation and reuse; water resource recovery facility design; and water supply and management.
As the world’s largest assembly of water and wastewater product and services, as well as the launch point for many new products, WEFTEC’s exhibition will provide access to more than 1,000 exhibiting companies, equipment demonstrations, and leading technical experts. The exhibition will be open Sept. 28 to 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; exhibitor hospitality events and private demonstrations will be Mon-Tues, Sept. 28 to 29, from 5 to 6 p.m.
Co-sponsored by BlueTech Research and ImagineH20, the Innovation Showcase and Innovation Pavilion will feature products and programming to encourage ideas and creativity in the water sector. The showcase includes nearly 20 educational sessions categorized under three focus areas: Water Sector Entrepreneur Forums, WEFTEC Exhibitors’ Innovative Solutions, and Operations Ingenuity Contest Winners as well as two networking receptions.
The Innovation Pavilion, located within the Showcase, will feature exhibits from entrepreneurs, thought leaders and those who challenge the status quo with new technologies, approaches and business opportunities. Also featured in the pavilion will be the winners and finalists of several awards. Located next to the pavilion will be the Innovation Row, which will feature the Wisconsin Water Innovation Pavilion/The Water Council/The BREW, the Water Environment Research Foundation, and others.
The second annual Stormwater Congress is a conference-within-a-conference that is co-located with WEFTEC 2015. Featuring 17 sessions and more than 70 world-class speakers, the program spotlights all pressing aspects of stormwater management including regulations and policies; flood impacts and mitigation; storm water and transportation systems; green infrastructure benefits; financing challenges and more. Other features include an expanded Stormwater Pavilion; networking reception; and a luncheon with keynote from Antonio Riley, regional administrator, HUD Midwest, U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, who will discuss the agency’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program.
The WEF Learning Lounge will feature a variety of presentations, 17 mobile sessions, a trivia contest and networking opportunities. The mobile sessions provide an alternative learning experience by allowing attendees to walk the exhibit floor and interact directly with presenters. Guided tours will connect attendees with experts who will discuss key topics in the industry, including aeration, chemical disinfection, water and wastewater, advanced oxidation, ultraviolet disinfection, sewer operations, energy management and more.
The WEFTEC Global Center provides services for international attendees, along with more than a dozen special sessions and events highlighting important global topics and business opportunities. WEFTEC is the only water show selected to be a part of the U.S. Commercial Service International Buyer Program sponsored by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce and the International Trade Administration. Speakers include: Marcus Jadotte, assistant secretary for industry and analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce and Michael H. Shapiro, deputy assistant administrator, Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Source: Water Environment Federation
