Fall Conference & Exhibition Offers Best of Both Worlds by Dave Eggerton Oct 14, 2021 Voices on Water You will not want to miss the 2021 ACWA Fall Conference & Exhibition in Pasadena Nov.30-Dec. 2 as an exciting breakthrough in our association’s ability to deliver a valuable, enjoyable experience in both the virtual and in-person space. We will once again have an opportunity to gather at conference in-person. At the same time, a virtual component will provide convenience and access to anyone joining us remotely at their home or office. ACWA staff has learned a lot about mastering the production of virtual conferences, and you will see the result of that hard work if you are unable to join us at the Pasadena Convention Center. There really is no other time or place – virtual or in-person – to learn the latest developments in California water while enjoying the strong bonds of camaraderie that mark our profession. This conference will be no different, especially given the critical nature of our work during a time dominated by a severe drought. From keynote addresses from leaders and influencers within our community to programs, forums and a new roundtable discussion series, the 2021 Fall Conference & Exhibition will deliver the quality content our members deserve. For myself and other ACWA staff, it really feels like we have prepared for this conference for more than a year. We have strived toward simultaneously hosting an event that marks a return to traditional conferences, but that shares the one-of-a-kind nature of our conference with anyone, anywhere and at any time. We will live-stream keynote speakers and breakout sessions, while recording content for later viewing at your convenience. We are making this option available so that all attendees can choose the conference experience that best suits them. Ultimately, all the work behind this conference emphasizes our top priority in protecting the health and safety of ACWA staff and membership. In time, we hope to have the option to consider returning to just traditional in-person events, but for now we are rising to the challenges of our unprecedented times with exceptional confidence in our ability to serve our membership and greater California water community through multiple platforms. I am proud that we can combine two types of conference experiences that will maximize its value to our members, whether they join us remotely or in-person. If you have not done so already, I urge you to visit our website page at www.acwa.com/events to select the option that works best for you. Every ACWA conference lives up to being among the highlights of the year for so many of us within our community. This Fall Conference & Exhibition will be no exception as an exciting step toward a return to in-person events, while representing our shared commitment to remain connected through any challenge.
