On behalf of the Technical Services Advisory Group (TSAG), we are proud to announce the launch of the TSAG Annual Operator Awards, a new initiative recognizing the outstanding contributions of water and wastewater operators across First Nations communities in Alberta.
These awards are only available for Alberta First Nation Operators who are currently employed by a TSAG Participating Nation.
These awards will be presented at the 2026–2027 TSAG Annual Operators Conference during our evening event on Tuesday May 26, 2026. Our conference will serve as a platform to celebrate the dedication, skill, and leadership of operators who play a critical role in protecting community health, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring the delivery of safe and reliable water services.
SUBMIT A NOMINATION BELOW
Why This Recognition Matters
Water and wastewater operators are the backbone of community infrastructure. Their work often goes unseen, yet it is essential to the well-being and future of every Nation.
These awards aim to:
- Honour the commitment and professionalism of operators
- Highlight success stories and leadership within communities
- Inspire the next generation of operators
- Promote a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement across First Nations
Award Categories
1. Rising Star Award
Emerging Leader in Water/Wastewater Operations
This award recognizes an operator with less than five years of experience who is already making a meaningful impact. These individuals demonstrate strong dedication to learning, take initiative, and show great promise as future leaders in their field.
2. Lifetime Achievement Award
Honouring a Career of Dedication to Water/Wastewater Services
This award celebrates a professional with 20+ years of service who has made significant and lasting contributions to water and wastewater operations. Recipients are recognized for their leadership, mentorship, and lifelong commitment to improving services in First Nations communities.
3. Operator of the Year Award
Excellence in Operations
This award honours an operator who consistently demonstrates exceptional performance, reliability, and professionalism. These individuals go above and beyond to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient water and wastewater systems while earning the respect of their peers and community.
Call for Nominations
4. Innovator of the Year Award
Innovation and Creative Solutions
This award recognizes an individual or team who has introduced innovative practices, technologies, or approaches that improve water and wastewater management. Their work contributes to sustainability, efficiency, and inspires a culture of innovation within their community and beyond.
We encourage all First Nations to participate by nominating deserving operators from your community. This is an opportunity to recognize those who work tirelessly behind the scenes and to celebrate the excellence that exists across our Nations.