MI-ACE Networking and Entertainment

September 15 - 18, 2026 | Kalamazoo, MI

Networking is a key part of the conference experience—and one of the most valuable. Beyond the sessions, it’s your opportunity to connect with peers, industry leaders, and solution providers who understand your day-to-day challenges.

By engaging with others, you’ll gain real-world insights, exchange ideas, and build relationships that extend far beyond the event. Whether you’re looking to expand your professional circle, discover new opportunities, or simply learn from others in the field, networking helps turn a few days at conference into long-term value for you and your organization.

We encourage all attendees to take advantage of the many opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow throughout the event.

Opening Night Reception: Treats, Trivia, and More

Tuesday, September 15 – 7:30 pm

Hosted by Safe Water in Ecuador and the Young Professionals, this lively evening at the Radisson Plaza Hotel is open to all conference attendees and promises something for everyone! Enjoy a dessert reception, refreshing beverages, and an optional trivia night, where your knowledge on pop culture and other topics can be put to the test. Whether you're here to mingle, make new connections, or show off your trivia skills, this is the perfect way to start the week. Exciting prizes await our trivia winners, so bring your A-game and a few friends (or meet some new ones on your team)!
Included with your conference registration—just bring your curiosity, your sweet tooth, and your sense of fun.
Let’s kick off the conference with laughter, learning, and great company!

First-Time Attendee Orientation and Breakfast

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.

Continental Breakfast in the Exhibit Hall

Wednesday, September 16 – 8:00 am

Join us for a continental breakfast with exhibitors to kick off the day with networking and light refreshments.

Lunch in the Exhibit Hall

Wednesday, September 16 – 12:00 pm

Grab a portable lunch and connect with our 56 participating exhibitors as you explore the exhibit hall.

Happy Hour in the Exhibit Hall

Wednesday, September 16 – 4:35 pm

Wrap up the day with a happy hour in the exhibit hall—grab a beverage, enjoy hors d'oeuvres, and make your final visits to the exhibitor booths. Don’t miss the Best Drinking Water in Michigan contest—the winner advances to ACE 2027 in San Diego, CA to compete for Best of the Best!

SWIE Chance Auction - during Exhibit Hall Happy Hour.

Chance Auction items are displayed in the Exhibit Hall and have a basket placed near them. Place your ticket in the basket of the item you most want to win. Winners are drawn randomly from the assigned baskets for each item. There is no limit to the number of tickets you can place in any basket. The SWIE Chance Auction is open Wednesday, September 16 during Happy Hour in the Exhibit Hall.

Tickets - 3 for $10 and 10 for $20

Women on Water (W.O.W.)

Thursday, September 17 – 4:35 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 - $20

Fuller Luncheon

Thursday, September 17 – 12:00 pm

A time-honored tradition, the Fuller Luncheon honors 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.

Registration required: $25

Thursday Night Retro Rewind Party

Thursday, September 17 – 6:00 PM

Tickets - $75

RSVP's are required for all networking and entertainment events. Additional fees may apply. Be sure to select the events you plan to attend.