2026 KRWA Management Conference Celebrates Record Exhibitor Participation and Industry Connections
The Kentucky Rural Water Association (KRWA) welcomed nearly 400 participants to Bowling Green, Kentucky, for its 2026 Management Conference, held at the Sloan Convention Center and Crowne Plaza. The two-day event brought together water and wastewater professionals from across the Commonwealth for educational opportunities, industry networking, and meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing Kentucky's utilities.
This year's conference reached an exciting milestone with a record 70 exhibitors, marking an impressive turnout and reflecting the continued growth of the event. The exhibit hall was filled with industry partners showcasing the latest products, equipment, technologies, and services designed to support water and wastewater utilities. Throughout the conference, attendees explored innovative solutions, exchanged ideas, and strengthened relationships with the companies that help keep Kentucky's utilities operating efficiently.
Education remained at the heart of the Management Conference, with sessions addressing a wide range of topics relevant to today's utility professionals. From regulatory updates and utility leadership to infrastructure, technology, and workforce development, the program provided practical information and valuable continuing education opportunities. Attendees gained insights they could take back to their utilities while connecting with colleagues facing many of the same challenges.
Beyond the classroom, the conference provided opportunities to celebrate the people and partnerships that make Kentucky's rural water community so strong. The Member Appreciation Reception, sponsored by Rural Water Financing Agency, brought attendees, exhibitors, and industry partners together for an evening of networking and fellowship. The reception offered a chance to reconnect with longtime colleagues, establish new relationships, and enjoy the camaraderie that has become a hallmark of KRWA events.
Another memorable highlight was the Women of Rural Water Luncheon, sponsored by Water Solutions Unlimited. The gathering celebrated the contributions of women throughout the water and wastewater industry while encouraging professional connections, mentorship, and continued involvement. A special moment during the luncheon was the recognition of Donna McNeil, whose honor was a meaningful part of the event. The luncheon provided an opportunity to recognize accomplishments, share experiences, and celebrate the women helping shape the future of Kentucky's water and wastewater industry.
The conference also reinforced the importance of investing in the next generation of utility professionals. Workforce development, training, and the continued need for skilled operators and leaders were recurring themes, underscoring KRWA's commitment to helping utilities prepare for the future.
With nearly 400 participants and a record-setting exhibitor presence, the 2026 Management Conference demonstrated the value of bringing Kentucky's water and wastewater community together. Whether attending educational sessions, discovering new products, or catching up with colleagues, participants contributed to an atmosphere of collaboration and shared purpose.
KRWA extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this year's conference a success, including the speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees. Special thanks go to The Sherwin-Williams Company, our Registration Sponsor; Rural Water Financing Agency, our Member Appreciation Reception Sponsor; and Water Solutions Unlimited, our Women of Rural Water Luncheon Sponsor. Their generous support, along with that of KRWA's Corporate Partners and other conference sponsors, helps make these valuable opportunities possible.
As another successful Management Conference comes to a close, KRWA looks forward to building on the connections, conversations, and momentum generated throughout the event. Together, we remain committed to strengthening Kentucky's water and wastewater industry and supporting the professionals who serve communities across the Commonwealth.