Wastewater trade shows and conference opportunities are plentiful. So why, you might ask, should you consider the WWETT Show?

The Water & Wastewater Equipment Treatment and Transport (WWETT) Show covers every facet of the wastewater life cycle – from flush back to fresh. You’ll find relevant equipment and educational opportunities. And you’ll meet with colleagues who might help you improve operating efficiency or solve that next plant problem.

Here are six reasons every operator should attend WWETT:

1. It's the whole industry. As an operator, you’re part of a much bigger circle of environmental professionals – people you interact with at work, one way or another. For example, septic system pumpers might haul loads to your plant. Private inspection and cleaning contractors might take care of your sewers. Drain cleaning contractors and plumbers might be partners in your efforts to control I&I from private laterals. When all of these professionals can mingle and talk, everyone is better off.
2. Explore equipment, wall to wall. In the huge exhibit hall, spanning almost 12 football fields or 600,000 square feet, you’ll find types of technology you use daily – from multiple suppliers. You can talk to the manufacturers, kick tires, compare capabilities and prices. You’ll also see the full array of equipment others who interact with your systems might be using. You’re sure to discover items that can help you operate better and more efficiently – things you never even knew existed.
3. Courses and credits for operators. The educational portion of the show opens on Wednesday. The schedule offers two dozen courses specific to treatment plant operators – topics such as: collection system management, pretreatment, biosolids, water treatment and more. Most courses qualify for continuing education credits and a full schedule can be found at WWETT.com.
4. A reception so big it requires Lucas Oil Stadium. Perennial attendees agree, the best thing about the show is networking with others in the industry. This year Lucas Oil Stadium will host a welcome reception both Wednesday and Thursday evening, a WWETT Show first. Beyond networking with your peers, there's even an industry-wide beer brewing competition. 
5. Live entertainment. Each year the WWETT Show includes a private concert by a top music performer – this year Jerrod Niemann. Most will recognize Jerrod's No. 1 single "Drink to That All Night" among many other Top 10 hits.
6. Budget-friendly admission. At $40 for early registration, the WWETT Show is one of the best trade show values you can find. If you're operating under a tight government budget, this is a lot of bang for your buck. By registering in advance, you gain full show access, which includes three days of exhibits, all education courses, the concert and party at Lucas Oil – for 40 bucks. That price shouldn’t be a barrier to your chain of command – especially if you can drive to the show for a day and don’t need overnight lodging.

There you have it. Hope to see you in Indianapolis.

The Nitty-Gritty

WHAT: Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport (WWETT) Show
WHERE: Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis
WHEN: Feb. 17-20
COST: $40 until Nov. 15, $70 thereafter
MORE INFO: wwettshow.com