OOWA’s 2027 Industry Awards
OOWA recognizes our members who demonstrate outstanding commitment and accomplishment to both the industry and the association. These dedicated professionals embody OOWA’s vision of promoting and integrating onsite and decentralized wastewater treatment as a consistent, reliable, effective, and permanent servicing solution to our communities. Award nominees and winners integrate OOWA’s values by advocating for and implementing environmental protection. These individuals bring economic viability to our province, promoting healthy and sustainable communities and collaboration through education and outreach. OOWA will provide awards according to the following eight categories:
OOWA Industry Ambassador of the Year This award recognizes an individual member who:
• Has done something extraordinary within the past year,
• Has helped to improve the onsite wastewater industry and our communities,
• Has increased awareness of the value of decentralized and onsite wastewater management in Ontario,
• Represents the industry and the organization with positive work and strong personal values,
• Demonstrates the OOWA Code of Ethics,
• Is recognized by their clients, business associates, and cohorts for conducting their services with exceptional integrity, and
• Is an outspoken advocate of the industry.
OOWA Corporate Steward Award This award recognizes a business or association for:
• Leading in environmental programs that provide protection, renewal, or education on water resource management with onsite and decentralized solutions.
They:
• Have contributed in an exceptional way to the improved standards of practice, better public policy, or increased awareness of the value of decentralized and onsite wastewater management in Ontario, and
• Lead by example for other companies, cohorts, and industry stakeholders, by giving back to their community, through advocacy for the environment and natural resources.
OOWA Director of the Year This award is presented to an OOWA Director recognizing their contribution to the Association and membership during this past year. This individual has:
• Demonstrated exceptional input and understanding according to the objectives of the association,
• Dedicated their time, effort and personal resources to the ongoing guidance and strategic improvements of the association, and
• Consistently kept the best interests of the organization and the industry before any other gains when representing the Association.
OOWA Volunteer of the Year This member has contributed well above expectations to a committee or task group in this past year. They have:
• Dedicated their time, effort, and personal resources to advance the objectives of the Association through committee work and collaboration,
• Given back to the industry through their work with the committee, and
• Represented OOWA with exemplary conduct, demonstrating positive values and attitudes.
OOWA Corporate Innovator This OOWA member:
• Demonstrates exemplary innovation in and advancement of onsite and decentralized wastewater treatment and management,
• Has advanced a product or service solution that adds value to decentralized wastewater management or treatment, and
• Has elevated innovative concepts and technologies, strengthening both the caliber of the industry and caliber and of the Association.
OOWA Young Professional of the Year This award recognizes an OOWA member who:
• Has contributed in an outstanding way towards the industry,
• Is 30 years old or younger,
• Exhibits the enthusiasm, drive, and professionalism required for success in our industry,
• Abides by the OOWA Member Code of Conduct,
• Dedicates their time volunteering for industry-related activities, and
• Demonstrates leadership within the onsite wastewater industry.
OOWA Small Business Owner of the Year Small businesses are the core constituents of OOWA’s membership and are the front line representatives of the onsite wastewater industry. The small business owner of the year is an OOWA member who:
• Is dedicated to the industry, and works tirelessly to serve their clients in delivering quality work and services,
• Abides by OOWA’s Member Code of Conduct, and
• Is recognized by those in their community and the industry as having exceptional integrity and reliability.
OOWA Collaborator of the Year Both organizations and individuals are eligible for this award. They:
• Work with OOWA on collaborative projects or ongoing efforts to improve industry performance, environmental outcomes, or community benefit.
OOWA has a dedicated, talented, and accomplished constituency that includes both individuals and organizations. By recognizing the vital roles and contributions made by its members, the Association leverages the collective strength of the membership to promote enduring changes and rewards to our communities. OOWA encourages members to nominate those who should be recognized for their efforts and contributions.
Please complete our award nomination form and email it to Kelly Andrews by January 29, 2027 at executivedirector@oowa.org.
We graciously accept and appreciate early submissions, and we accept award nominations all year round.
