Not long after starting my career at COLE Publishing, I went to the WWETT Show and played puppy. I trailed closely alongside many of the company veterans for three days trying to absorb every bit of knowledge I could. My takeaway was that the entire wastewater industry is tight-knit and built on relationships, many of which root directly from meetings that happen right there at the show.
For over 45 years, COLE Publishing has worked to support and help advance the wastewater industry and the individual professionals that form it. From the first trade journal we published and through every expo we hosted, the goal was always the same — create a platform that builds standing relationships, strengthens the industry and recognizes the people who power our essential infrastructure.
This fall we are excited to bring yet another opportunity to do those very things at the Wastewater Equipment Fair. Held Oct. 5-7, 2026, on the Nashville Fairgrounds in the Nashville, Tennessee, the WEQ Fair features indoor exhibits and live outdoor demonstrations and operational equipment.
Fire it up
Exhibitors, the location offers a unique opportunity to park your equipment on something other than carpet and actually fire it up. I won’t buy a truck without a test-drive, and most contractors don’t want to buy machinery or equipment without first seeing it in action.
Attendees, this event will create an environment to compare options side by side and see the newest technology operating live. Witness vacuum trucks, high-pressure jetters and sophisticated robotic pipeline cameras in a simulated working environment. There’s no better way to compare performance, noise levels and ease of use across different brands giving you added confidence in a potential investment.
Professional development
WEQ will also provide opportunities for learning and continuing education units. Training tracks will take place on the first two days of the show with associations like NAWT offering sessions on vacuum truck operation, inspector training and a treatment symposium.
Aside from the formal classes, the WEQ Fair gives pumpers a chance to learn through hands-on demonstrations and serves as a networking hub to meet leading manufacturers, other pumpers or even professionals providing another service that may make sense for you to add to your offerings. I cannot count the conversation I’ve had with pumpers new and old that comment on how healthy relationships with other similar companies have helped them grow and become a stronger business.
Celebrate
Attendees and exhibitors are also invited to a celebration. This year marks 45 years since COLE Publishing organized and hosted the very first trade show for the industry, the International Liquid Waste Hauler’s Show, which also took place in Nashville. In honor of that and a tribute to the man who started it all, Bob Kendall, the 45th Reunion Celebration will be (tentatively) held on the evening of Oct. 6. It will feature simple live entertainment, free beer and a cash bar.
Registration
We encourage both contractors and municipalities serving any facet of the water and wastewater industries to attend. And exhibitors, if you are a manufacturer, dealer, distributors or service company covering any aspect of the industry, this event is for you.
Attendee registration is open and can be found at weqfair.com. The cost is $25 per person prior to July 1 and will increase to $45 after that date. That includes exhibits and the 45th Reunion Celebration.
Exhibit space sales are also open. Contact COLE Publishing at 866-933-2653 for details.
Pay attention to the website for updates and current information. We are looking forward to seeing you all in Nashville!
