Thursday, Nov. 5: Access to the Jewish Community Campus will be limited to the 115th Street Entrance and 117th Street Entrance via Nall only, due to an event on the Aspiria Campus. Access to campus via Sprint Parkway and 117th Street will not be available.

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Midwest Aquatics Professional Development Summit

Date: December 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Contact:

Dylan Coleman
[email protected]

Details

Bring your Head Guards, LGIs, WSITs, and emerging aquatics leaders to a day built specifically for professional development, collaboration, and hands-on learning alongside you as the leader!

Participants will have the opportunity to learn from experienced aquatics professionals, ask questions directly to LGITs and WSITs, strengthen their understanding of water chemistry, explore programming and special events, and spend time in the water developing practical skills.

Managers and directors are encouraged to get in the water, too.

This is an opportunity to invest in the people who keep your programs moving. Help your leaders grow. Grow alongside them.

Cost: $30 per participant
Registration includes a catered lunch and a follow-along workbook provided.

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 8 a.m.


Schedule

  • 9–11 a.m. | Water Chemistry with Commercial Aquatic Services 
    Led by Andrew Bohl. A practical look at water chemistry, troubleshooting, and the information aquatics leaders need to better understand and manage their pools.
  • 11 a.m.–12 p.m. | LGIT/WSIT Roundtable
    Led by panel shown below. An open conversation with experienced LGITs and WSITs. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss challenges, and learn from professionals who have been in their shoes.
  • 12–1 p.m. | Catered Lunch & Networking
  • 1–2 p.m. | Programming & Events
    Led by Cole Surber and Dylan Coleman. Explore ideas for building stronger aquatics programming, creating successful events, engaging your community, and developing programs that work.
  • 2–4 p.m. | Hands-On Water Sessions 
    Led by panel shown below. Participants will be divided into four groups and rotate through hands-on sessions led by LGITs/WSITs.

Our Presenters:

Renee Reis

Renee brings more than 25 years of experience in the aquatics industry to her role as Parks and Recreation Supervisor for the City of Fairway, Kansas. A Lifeguard Instructor and auditor with StarGuard Elite, Renee travels across the country helping aquatic teams strengthen safety practices, improve performance, and build confidence. She is passionate about practical training, staff development, and creating aquatic environments where both employees and guests can thrive.

Dylan Coleman

Dylan serves as Aquatics Manager at The J, overseeing programming, staff development and swim instruction. With aquatics leadership experience since 2021, she has expanded programs, strengthened operations, and developed teams focused on safety and quality instruction. Certified as an American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor, First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor and Water Safety Instructor, Dylan is passionate about developing aquatics professionals and creating safe, effective, and sustainable programs.

Cole Surber

Cole serves as Recreation Manager of Aquatics & Fitness for the City of Merriam, Kansas. A dedicated leader in aquatics and recreation, he focuses on building strong relationships, fostering positive environments, and encouraging community engagement. Through collaboration and leadership, Cole promotes inclusive recreational opportunities that support active, healthy lifestyles. He holds a bachelor's degree in education from Wichita State University, specializing in health and physical education.

Amanda Hill

Amanda has worked in aquatics since 2011, beginning as a lifeguard before transitioning into swim instruction and facility management. She currently serves as an American Red Cross Aquatic Examiner and USA Swimming coach. With management experience at three aquatic facilities, Amanda specializes in water safety, staff development, and aquatic operations. She is also a certified Water Safety Instructor Trainer and Lifeguarding Instructor through the American Red Cross.

Steven Murphy

Steven Murphy began his aquatics career in his late 30s while teaching history at a community college. Today, he trains lifeguards, lifeguarding instructors and water safety instructors as an American Red Cross licensed training provider. His veteran-owned company, Missouri Aquatics Training and Education Solutions, supports aquatic facilities throughout the Midwest and beyond. Steven has experience with StarGuard, Ellis & Associates and American Red Cross training programs.

 

You will receive an email one week prior to the event with final details.

Ticket TypePriceQuantity
General Admission $30.00

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