MI-ACE 2026 Attendee FAQs

Q: What is MI-ACE 2026?

A: MI-ACE 2026 is the 88th Annual Conference and Exhibits hosted by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA). The conference brings together water professionals from across Michigan for education, networking, innovation, and professional development.

Q: When and where is MI-ACE 2026 being held?

A: MI-ACE 2026 will take place September 15–18, 2026, at the Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Q: Why should I attend MI-ACE 2026?

A: Attendees can:

• Earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) and PDHs
• Attend technical and leadership sessions
• Network with water professionals across Michigan
• Discover new technologies in the Expo Hall
• Learn industry best practices and innovations
• Participate in networking and social events
• Stay current on regulatory updates and trends

Q: How many Continuing Education Credits (CECs) can I earn?

A: Attendees may earn up to 1.4 CECs or 14 PDHs, pending final EGLE approval.

Q: What do I need to do to receive CEC credit at MI-ACE 2026?

A: To earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) for attending MI-ACE 2026, attendees must check in and out of each session they attend.

Download the Conference App

1. Go to the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iPhone) and search for “MIAWWA Events.”
2. Log in using the email address associated with your MI-ACE registration and create your password.
3. Tap Events and select MI-ACE 2026.

CEC Check-In Options

You may check in and out of sessions using one of the following methods:

• Badge Scanning:
  Scan your badge at the kiosk when entering and exiting each session. Scanners will be located near the session room doors.

• Conference Mobile App:
  Open the session in the conference app and:

  • Enter the start code at the beginning of the session
  • Enter the end code at the conclusion of the session

  Both codes are required to receive credit.

Q: Why can't I access the member registration ticket options?

A:

• First, make sure you’re logged into your MI-AWWA account using the email associated with your membership.
• If you’re already logged in and still don’t see member pricing, please confirm that your membership is current. Member-rate registration options are only available to current MI-AWWA members.
• If the issue continues, contact MI-AWWA for assistance at info@mi-water.org.

Q: What meals and events are included with conference registration?

A: Conference registration includes:

• Wednesday continental breakfast and lunch
• Thursday full breakfast
• Friday continental breakfast
• Tuesday and Wednesday evening receptions
• Refreshments and conference breaks throughout the event

Q: What are the Exhibit Hall hours?

A: The Exhibit Hall will be open Wednesday, September 16, from 7:15 AM – 6:15 PM.

Q: When are the busiest Exhibit Hall times?

A: Featured Exhibit Hall times include:

• Early Morning Coffee: 7:15 AM – 8:00 AM
• Breakfast with Exhibitors: 8:00 AM – 8:40 AM
• Morning Break: 10:20 AM – 10:40 AM
• Lunch with Exhibitors: 11:50 AM – 1:40 PM
• Afternoon Break: 3:25 PM – 3:45 PM
• Happy Hour: 4:50 PM – 6:15 PM

Q: Is there a conference app?

A: Yes. The conference app allows attendees to:

• Track earned CECs
• Meet speakers
• Connect with exhibitors
• Receive conference notifications
• Participate in prize opportunities

Q: Is there a first-time attendee event?

A: 

Wednesday, September 16 – 8:00 am

Those attending Ml-ACE for the first time are invited to attend an orientation breakfast before the Opening General Session on Wednesday. Leaders of MI-AWWA will provide you with some tips for how to get the most out of attending. This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with other attendees prior to sessions starting. RSVP is required during registration.

Q: Is the Opening Night Reception (Treats, Trivia and More) included with registration?

A: 

Tuesday, September 15 – 7:30 pm

Hosted by the Young Professionals (YPs) and SWIE, this lively evening at the Radisson Plaza Hotel welcomes all conference attendees for a dessert reception, beverages, and optional trivia games.  Mingle with colleagues, make new connections, and kick off the conference with fun, laughter, and learning. In the spirit of this year’s 80’s-inspired conference theme, expect a few retro surprises mixed into the evening — including some themed trivia questions alongside a variety of general knowledge topics. Whether you’re here to network, test your trivia skills, or simply enjoy sweet and savory treats, there’s something for everyone.  Admission is included with your conference registration.

Q: Are there additional networking events available?

A: Yes. Ticketed networking events include:

• MI-AWWA Golf Outing
• Fuller Awards Luncheon
• Women on Water Networking
• Thursday Networking Event

Q: How much does the golf outing cost?

A:

• Individual Golfer: $155
• Foursome: $600
• Mulligans: $5 for two do-overs

Q: How much is the Fuller Awards Luncheon?

A:

Thursday, September 17 – 12:00 pm

A time-honored tradition, the Fuller Luncheon honors Michigan Water Utility Hall of Fame inductees, the Raymond J. Faust Awardees, and the George Warren Fuller Awardee. Come enjoy lunch and celebrate the titans of the water sector in Michigan. Faust and Fuller awardees are announced during the luncheon.  Pre-registration required.

• Registration for the Fuller Awards Luncheon is $25.
• Retiree's special ticket for the Fuller Awards Luncheon is $15

Q: What is the Women on Water networking event?

A:

Thursday, September 17 – 4:40 pm

Women are becoming more common in the water sector but there are still issues unique to women. This networking event offers the opportunity for women in the water sector to connect and share experiences. 

• Tickets for Women on Water are $20. 

Q: How much is the Thursday networking event?

A:

Thursday, September 11 - 6:00 pm

Throw it back to the 1980s at Thursday Night Networking during MI-ACE! Join fellow attendees in the Radisson’s West Michigan Room, where historic charm meets modern design for an evening of retro fun and industry connection.

 After a full day of conference sessions, unwind with great food, drinks, and Music Bingo featuring iconic hits from the decade. Break out your best 80s-inspired attire — neon, denim, big hair, leg warmers, or vintage concert tees encouraged — and enjoy a relaxed evening connecting with colleagues and friends from across the water industry.

 Whether you come for the networking, the nostalgia, or the music, this will be a night you won’t want to miss. Pre-registration required.

• Tickets for the Thursday networking event are $75.

Q: What are the conference registration rates?

A: Registration pricing varies by membership status and registration type. Early registration discounts are available through August 21, 2026.

Ticket	June 8– Aug 21	Aug 22 – onsite
Attendee Registration
Full Conference: Member	$565	$600
Full Conference: Non-member	$655	$690
Full Conference: Retiree member	$340	$375
Full Conference Small System: Member	$340	$375
Single Day: Member	$355	$390
Single Day: Non-member	$445	$480
Awardee	$0	$10
Speaker Registration
Full Conference Speaker: Member	$380	$415
Full Conference Speaker: Non-member	$470	$505
Single Day Speaker	$0	$15
Exhibitor Registration – includes a 7’x10’ and Wednesday registration for 2 people
Exhibitor: Member with a 7’x10’ booth space, full conference	$1,060	$1,130
Exhibitor: Member with a 7’x10’ booth space	$730	$765
Exhibitor: Non-member with a 7’x10’ booth space, full conference	$1,250	$1,320
Exhibitor: Non-member with a 7’x10’ booth space	$830	$865
Additional Exhibitor: Member (Wednesday only) with purchase of booth space.	$355	$390
Additional Exhibitor: Non-member (Wednesday only) with purchase of booth space.	$445	$480
Guest Registration
Conference Guest	$285	$320
Awardee Guest	$40	$45
Special Event Tickets
Fuller Lunch	$25	$25
Women on Water (W.O.W.)	$20	$20
Thursday Night Lawn Party	$75	$75

Q: Can someone attend in my place if I can no longer attend?

A: Yes. Substitutions are permitted. Requests should be emailed to info@mi-water.org. Additional fees may apply if the substitute’s membership status differs.

Q: What is the cancellation policy?

A:

• By August 21 at 4:00 PM: Full refund minus a $35 processing fee
• August 21–September 5 at 4:00 PM: 50% refund
• After September 5 at 4:00 PM or no-shows: No refund

Q: How do I book a hotel room?

A: Call the Radisson Plaza Hotel directly at (269) 343-3333 and mention the MI-ACE Conference with MI-AWWA to receive the group rate. Rooms may also be booked online through the MI-AWWA lodging page.

Q: What are the hotel room rates?

A:

• Standard Room: $182/night + taxes
• Upgraded Room: $232/night + taxes

Q: When is the hotel room block available through?

A: The MI-ACE room block is available through August 20, 2026, or until the block is full.

Q: Is parking available at the hotel?

A: Yes.

• Self-Parking: $13/day
• Valet Parking: $23/day plus gratuity

Q: Can I volunteer at MI-ACE and how do I sign up?

A: Yes. Volunteer opportunities may include registration assistance, session moderating, member booth support, and other conference activities. Volunteers must be registered conference attendees. Volunteer sign-up is available at:  MI-ACE Volunteer Sign-Up

Q: What is the SWIE Chance Auction and how much are tickets?

A: The SWIE Chance Auction is held during Wednesday’s Happy Hour in the Exhibit Hall Lobby to support Safe Water in Ecuador initiatives. Attendees may purchase raffle tickets for donated prizes and items.

Ticket pricing:

• 3 tickets for $10
• 10 tickets for $20

MI-ACE 2026 Exhibitor FAQs

Q: What is included with my booth?

A: Each booth includes a 7’ x 10’ booth space, one 6’ x 24” covered and skirted table, two chairs, one wastebasket, pipe and drape, carpeted exhibit space, 110v electrical access, and two Wednesday-only exhibitor registrations.

Q: How do I access the Exhibitor Resource Page?

A: To access the Exhibitor Resource Page, you must first be logged into the MI-AWWA website using your member account credentials.

Q: When can I set up my booth?

A: Exhibitor move-in is Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. All exhibits must be fully set up by 8:00 PM.

Q: When is exhibitor move-out?

A: Exhibitor move-out is Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 6:15 PM – 10:00 PM.

Q: Can I tear down my booth early?

A: No. Exhibitors may not begin dismantling or removing booth materials before 6:15 PM on Wednesday.

Q: How many exhibitor registrations are included?

A: Each booth includes two Wednesday-only exhibitor registrations.

Q: Can I purchase additional exhibitor registrations?

A: Yes. Additional registrations may be purchased for:

• MI-AWWA Members: $355
• Non-Members: $445

Q: Is electrical service included?

A: Yes. Basic 110v electrical access is included with each booth. Additional electrical services may be available at an extra cost.

Q: Is Wi-Fi available in the exhibit hall?

A: General hotel Wi-Fi may be available for basic use. Exhibitors needing reliable internet for demonstrations, streaming, transactions, or equipment should arrange dedicated service in advance.

Q: Can I bring my own router or internet equipment?

A: Personal routers or internet equipment are not permitted unless approved by the hotel. Special internet requests should be coordinated in advance. Personal mobile hotspots are permitted.

Q: Where is MI-ACE 2026 being held?

A: MI-ACE 2026 will be held at the Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center.

Q: What are the hotel room rates?

A: Group rates are available through August 20, 2026, or until the room block is full:

• Standard Room: $182/night + taxes
• Upgraded Room: $232/night + taxes

Q: What are the hotel check-in and check-out times?

A:

• Check-In: 4:00 PM
• Check-Out: 12:00 PM

Q: Is parking available?

A: Yes. Self-parking is available in the attached parking structure, and valet parking is available at the main hotel entrance. Parking fees apply.

Q: What are the current parking rates?

A:

• Self-Parking: $13/day
• Valet Parking: $23/day + tip

Q: Are loading zones available?

A: Yes. Loading zones are available for quick unloading/loading only. Vehicles may remain in loading areas for no more than 20 minutes unless prior arrangements have been made.

Q: Can I ship materials to the hotel?

A: Yes. Shipments may arrive at the hotel up to 3 days prior to the event.

Q: How should I label shipped materials?

A: Shipments should include:

• MI-ACE 2026 event name and date
• Guest name
• Guest cell number
• Company name
• Box numbering (example: 1 of 3)

Q: Is there a limit to how many boxes I can ship?

A: Up to 10 boxes may be shipped individually. Shipments of 10 or more boxes should be sent via freight on a pallet or skid.

Q: Are handling fees charged for shipments?

A: Delivery and handling fees may apply.

Q: Can I bring my own food or drinks?

A: No. Outside food and beverage are not permitted unless approved in advance by the hotel.

Q: Can I distribute food samples?

A: Food samples may be permitted under limited circumstances but must receive prior approval.

Q: Can I give away alcohol at my booth?

A: No. Alcohol may not be sold, consumed, sampled, or raffled in conjunction with a trade show or exhibit.

Q: Is booth security provided?

A: The hotel provides general security coverage, but booth security is not provided. Exhibitors are responsible for their own materials and equipment.

Q: Are oversized vehicles allowed onsite?

A: Oversized vehicles cannot park on hotel property. Exhibitors should contact the hotel or conference services manager for nearby options.

Q: Are sponsorship opportunities available?

A: Yes. Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,000–$7,500 and may include exhibit space and/or registration depending on sponsorship level.

Q: How can I donate to the SWIE Chance Auction?

A: Suggested donations include gift cards, technology items, self-care items, sports items, and handmade goods. To donate, contact MI-AWWA at info@mi-water.org

MI-ACE 2026 Speaker FAQs

Q: How do I access the Speaker Resource Page?

A: To access the Speaker Resource Page, you must first be logged into the MI-AWWA website using your member account credentials.  Speaker Resource Page is only available to individuals who have accepted their speaking invitation for MI-ACE 2026.

Q: Do I need to accept my speaking invitation before registering as a speaker?

A: Yes. Speakers must first accept their speaking invitation before they will be granted access to the Speaker Resource Page and speaker registration options.

Q: I accepted my invitation but still cannot access the Speaker Resource page. What should I do?

A: First, confirm that you are logged into the MI-AWWA website with the correct account. If you still cannot access the page, please contact                MI-AWWA for assistance. info@mi-water.org

Q: What registration is included for speakers?

A: Primary presenters receive complimentary registration for the day they present.

Q: Are discounts available for co-speakers or panelists?

A: Yes. Additional co-speakers or panelists may be eligible for a 50% discount on registration for the day of the presentation.

Q: Are speakers responsible for travel and lodging expenses?

A: Yes. Presenters are responsible for any additional registration fees, travel, lodging, parking, and related expenses.

Q: What presentation equipment will be provided onsite?

A: MI-AWWA will provide:

• MI-ACE 2026 PowerPoint templates
• Laptop with PowerPoint software
• LCD projector and screen
• Lectern/podium microphone
• Slide advance/laser pointer

Q: What presentation software is required?

A: Speakers are required to use either PowerPoint or Prezi for their presentations.

Q: Are microphones required during presentations?

A: Yes. Speakers are required to use a lapel or podium microphone during their session for the best attendee experience. Microphones will be provided onsite.

Q: When are final presentations due?

A: Final presentations must be submitted through the conference website by September 10, 2026.

Q: Can I make changes to my presentation onsite?

A: Yes, but updates must be provided to the onsite AV desk by 8:00 AM on the day of your presentation.

Q: How many co-presenters are allowed?

A:

• A maximum of two co-presenters is allowed for a 30-minute session.
• A maximum of three panelists is allowed for a 60-minute session.

Q: Can I list someone as a co-presenter if they are not speaking?

A: No. Only individuals who will be actively presenting should be listed as co-presenters or panelists.

Q: Will MI-AWWA record presentations?

A: By confirming participation, speakers grant MI-AWWA permission to record presentations (audio/video), if applicable. MI-AWWA retains copyright ownership of the recordings.

Q: Who owns the copyright to presentation materials?

A: Speakers retain copyright ownership of their presentation materials while granting MI-AWWA a royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use and distribute the materials with proper attribution.

Q: Can MI-AWWA use my name and biography in conference promotions?

A: Yes. By confirming participation, speakers authorize MI-AWWA to use their name, likeness, and biography in event promotions and conference materials.

Q: Will the conference schedule and preview be available online?

A: Yes. The conference preview will be available online by June 27, 2026, and registration materials will be mailed in early July as part of the Summer issue of Water Works News.