Founded in 1981, the World Waterpark Association is an international not-for-profit trade association with headquarters in Overland Park, Kan., serving waterparks, aquatic venues and spray parks from small to large. Focused on providing its approximately 1,200 park and supplier members with networking that enables them to operate safely and effectively, the WWA is governed by a volunteer board of directors—14 waterpark owners, operators, suppliers and developers.
The WWA also offers a variety of resources and events, including a publication focused on waterparks, how-to articles and videos, webinars, networking events and more. It partners with Haas & Wilkerson Insurance to provide an insurance program for member facilities, and it participates annually in National Water Safety Month and the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson. Both events aim to reduce drowning by providing water safety education and swim lessons.
The association also recognizes and celebrates industry professionals working to provide safe, fun water leisure environments with a number of awards and recognition programs. Administered by the WWA board of directors, the WWA Board Awards recognize excellence in leadership, safety, innovation, training and more. Awards include the Hall of Fame Award, Executive Board Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Kelly Ogle Safety Award, Al Turner Award and the Leading Edge Award.
Next up for the WWA is the association’s annual Symposium and Trade Show. This year will mark the 43rd annual event, which will be hosted in New Orleans from Oct. 24 to 27. A comprehensive marketplace for the waterpark industry, this symposium and trade show provides robust educational offerings, networking opportunities and a trade show floor catering to the needs of waterpark owners and operators.
Learn more about the WWA at www.waterparks.org. RM
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