Operations Challenge
The ultimate showcase of operational excellence in wastewater management
Operations Challenge is the water sector's best professional development program wrapped up in a competition.
Operations Challenge competition is a showcase of excellence in wastewater treatment, where skilled teams of professionals compete in a series of timed events. These events simulate real-world challenges faced in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities.
Through this competition, participants highlight the critical role of efficient and environmentally responsible wastewater management, fostering camaraderie and promoting best practices within the water sector.
2024 Results Team Resource Page
The competition is divided into three divisions based on teams' prior performances.
- Division I - Returning teams that were in Division I the previous year. This also includes any returning team that competed in the previous year's Division II Competition and placed in the top three positions overall.
- Division II - Returning teams who do not qualify for Division I. This also includes any returning team that competed in the previous year's Division III Competition and placed in the top three positions overall.
- Division III - New Teams that have three members who have never competed in WEFTEC Operations Challenge for their current utility. Teams may compete in Division 3 for up to three consecutive years. They may elect to complete in Division 2 if they choose. If a member has previously competed at WEFTEC, but not for their current employer, their team is eligible to compete in Division 3. Any Division 3 Team that wins the top 3 spots overall must move up to Division 2, regardless of years left in Division 3, unless team members change.
Event Details
The five events that make up Operations Challenge are the ultimate tests of wastewater treatment pros. From pump fixes to lab work, process control, safety checks, and collection system challenges, these events showcase the diverse skills needed for top-tier water sector talent.
Any questions about a specific event should be directed through that events page on the Team Resource Center.
Collections Systems
Competitors simulate real-world scenarios by inspecting and maintaining sewer collection systems, highlighting their capacity to prevent and address potential issues in the wastewater network.
Laboratory
In this event, competitors demonstrate their laboratory skills by conducting a series of tests and analyses, ensuring the accurate monitoring and control of wastewater treatment processes.
Vaughan Maintenance
Teams race against the clock to restore a pump to service, testing their ability to swiftly service critical equipment, ensuring uninterrupted wastewater treatment operations.
Process Control
Teams showcase their ability to optimize wastewater treatment processes through precise control and adjustment, emphasizing efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Safety
Safety takes the forefront as teams demonstrate their knowledge and adherence to rigorous safety protocols, ensuring the well-being of both workers and the environment.
Volunteers
A huge team of dedicated volunteers plays a vital role in Operations Challenge. They offer their time, expertise, and passion to manage logistics, provide valuable support, and serve as judges.
Team Resource Page
The Operations Challenge Team Resource page, hosted by the Rocky Mountain Water Environment Association includes the most up-to-date event descriptions and event frequently asked questions.
Visit the Resource Center
Archives
Watch Operations Challenge
Discover a wealth of valuable resources and exciting highlights from past years, including event tutorials, interviews, and live-streamed award ceremonies.
Access the 2024 award ceremony on Facebook (no account is needed to view).
Open the Operations Challenge PlaylistOperations Challenge History
Find out the full history of Operations Challenge. Since the event's inception in 1988, WEF's magazines have chronicled the details of each competition.
See a full list of Division I winners for the entire competition and download a full PDF of each year's coverage.
Support Operations Challenge
Find out how to volunteer for the competition and download custom email signatures to show your Operations Challenge pride.
Learn How to ParticipateWEFTEC 2025
98th Annual
Technical Exhibition & Conference
McCormick Place Convention Center
Chicago, Ill. USA
Conference: September 27 - October 1, 2025
Exhibition: September 29 - October 1, 2025
