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In addition to the extensive educational sessions at ßÏÀÖ԰’s 2026 Annual Educational Conference (AEC) & Exhibition, check out the Preconference Offerings taking place before the conference begins.

Preconference Offerings

August 1-3, 2026

Certified Professional – Food Safety (CP-FS) Credential Review Course

This two-and-a-half-day review course is tailor-made to enhance your preparation for the challenging CP-FS credential exam. Ideal for professionals with prior food safety knowledge, and who meet the eligibility requirements for the exam. The course will cover exam content areas as described on our website. The instructor will be available during and after the course for questions. The course includes the CP-FS Study Package (CP-FS manual and virtual CP-FS flash cards).

Presenters:

• Melissa Vaccaro, MS, CP-FS, PCQI - National Environmental Health Association

• Ashley Miller, MPH, CP-FS - National Environmental Health Association

CDC BRACE Framework: Building Resilience Against Climate Effects

ßÏÀÖÔ°, in collaboration with experts from ecoAmerica, will host a four-hour pre-conference workshop on the updated Building Resilience Against Climate Effects (BRACE) framework at the 2026 ßÏÀÖÔ° AEC in Kansas City, Missouri. This interactive session will build the workforce’s capacity to assess climate and health threats, engage communities, and develop evidence-based strategies that strengthen climate and health resilience. Designed for environmental and public health professionals, the workshop will provide practical tools, real-world examples, and collaborative approaches to protect families and communities from climate-related health risks.

Presenters:

• Nicole Dutra, MPH - National Environmental Health Association

• Amanda Li, MPH - ecoAmerica

Climate Ambassador Training

This interactive training equips environmental health professionals with the knowledge and tools to lead local climate and health discussions. Through hands-on activities and expert insights, participants will learn how to communicate climate impacts, promote health equity and strengthen community resilience. Emphasizing the power of local leadership, this training empowers professionals to be effective change agents in driving climate solutions. Upon completion, participants will be eligible to become a Climate for Health Ambassador.

Presenters:

• Nicole Dutra, MPH - National Environmental Health Association

• Amanda Li, MPH - ecoAmerica

Private Water Network’s, Well Under Pressure: Advancing Competencies to Empower Private Well Professionals

Over 43 million Americans rely on private wells—often without regulatory oversight or standardized safety protocols. This workshop addresses the urgent need for technical training and field-based skills to protect public health in communities served by private water systems. Designed for professionals at all experience levels, this workshop offers expert-led sessions that will equip private water professionals with the tools and confidence to evaluate and identify safe water infrastructure, assess well systems, monitor water quality, and respond to contamination risks effectively. Participants will gain practical skills, scientific insight, and communication strategies to guide homeowners toward informed decisions. Join us to enhance your knowledge, strengthen your skills, and build your capacity to protect your community’s drinking water.

Presenters:

• Nicole Dutra, MPH - National Environmental Health Association

• Kelly Amador, BS, REHS, CIOWTS - Black Hawk County Public Health, Iowa

Know the Signs, Stop the Spread: Practical Pests Control with Purpose

Rodents, cockroaches, and flies remain persistent public health threats. This interactive workshop is designed for professionals in code enforcement, food safety, housing, community health, and vector control. Participants will learn how to identify signs of infestations, assess environmental conditions, and apply effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies—focusing on prevention, sanitation, exclusion, and education. The training includes classroom learning, group activities, and a field tour to build practical skills for sustainable pest control and community engagement.

Presenters:

• Janet Hurley, ACE, MPA - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

• Claudia Riegel, PhD - City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board

• Kyle Walsh, RS, CP-FS - Chester County Health Department

Calm in the Chaos: Practical De-Escalation Skills for Environmental Health Professionals

Environmental health professionals often find themselves on the front lines of conflict, navigating tense situations with the public, colleagues, or stakeholders. This interactive four-hour workshop offers practical tools to stay grounded, communicate effectively, and defuse difficult encounters before they escalate. Join Alicia Love and Dr. Lucy Houghton for a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that blends real-world scenarios, group discussions, and reflective practice.

Presenters:

• Lucy Houghton, PhD, RN - Lucy Houghton Professional Development

• Alicia Love, MPH, RS - Montana Department of Livestock