Training Schedule
May 12-14, 2026 • Perdido Beach Resort
Draft Schedule - Subject to Change
This schedule is preliminary and may be updated as we finalize speaker arrangements and session details. Registered attendees will receive the final schedule via email prior to the event.
Our comprehensive 1.5-day training program combines expert-led sessions with hands-on equipment training. Meals included: Welcome shrimp boil (Tuesday evening), breakfast and lunch on Wednesday, and breakfast on Thursday.
Print ScheduleDay 1
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Registration & Check-In
Pick up your materials, name badge, and connect with fellow attendees.
Welcome Reception & Shrimp Boil
Join us for a relaxed evening of networking on the beach deck with fresh Gulf Coast shrimp, refreshments, and entertainment featuring Dueling Pianos with Dew Pendleton.
Day 2
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Breakfast
Opening Ceremony & Welcome
Rob White (ARWA), Phillip Combs (NRWA President), Kent Watson (NRWA Emergency Response Chairman).
Rural Water Leadership Panel: State Preparedness & Response
Panel featuring State Executive Directors from the Florida, Arkansas, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi Rural Water Associations, with additional states to be confirmed.
Open Forum: Audience Questions & Discussion
Open floor for input and participation.
Break
Inside Alabama's Emergency Response Framework: Lessons for Every State
Jeff Smitherman, Director — Alabama Emergency Management Agency.
Station Assignments & Group Formation
Participants assigned to rotation groups.
Hands-On Station Training — Morning Session
Small group rotations through equipment stations.
Lunch
Buffet lunch with networking opportunities.
Hands-On Station Training — Afternoon Session
Continued rotations through remaining stations.
Day 3
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Breakfast
Welcome & Day 3 Kickoff
Threat and Risk Analysis
James Pratt, NRWA. This class is designed to expand on critical infrastructure assessment, threat, and risk analysis by quantifying risk data as a primary step in disaster management.
Hands-On Station Training — Final Session
Completing remaining station rotations.
Closing Ceremony: Group Photos, Giveaways & Send-Off
Final thoughts, group photos, prize giveaways, and certificates of participation.
Important Information
Everything you need to know for a successful training experience
Meals Included
Welcome shrimp boil (Tuesday evening), breakfast and lunch on Wednesday, and breakfast on Thursday. Training ends at noon Thursday (no lunch provided).
Dress Code
Business casual for sessions, comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for equipment stations.
Materials
All training materials and resources will be provided. Digital copies available after the event.
Schedule Updates
Topics and times may be adjusted. Check your email for updates before the event.
Ready to Join Us?
Register now to secure your spot for this comprehensive training program.