Mission Statement
The mission of MRPA's Park Operations University is to develop future operations leaders by providing practical, applicable knowledge and hands-on experience that enhances park operations and prepares participants for leadership roles. Through professional development, technical training, and collaboration, participants will gain the skills necessary to create and maintain exceptional parks and public spaces for their communities.
About the Program:
MRPA's Park Operations University is an eight-month professional development program designed to prepare the next generation of park operations leaders. Through monthly sessions held throughout Maryland from August through March, participants will gain hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in park operations, leadership, safety, and sustainable practices.
The program combines classroom instruction, industry certifications, site visits, collaborative projects, and expert-led discussions. Participants will learn from experienced professionals across a variety of operational disciplines while building a network of peers from agencies throughout the state.
The program culminates with a group project and presentation at the MRPA Annual Conference in April 2027, where successful graduates will be formally recognized for completing the program.
Participants will have the opportunity to earn valuable certifications and receive training in areas such as:
- Professional Fertilizer Applicator Certification (Maryland Department of Agriculture)
- Registered Pesticide Applicator Certification (Maryland Department of Agriculture)
- Playground Maintenance Technician Certification (NRPA)
- Roadside Tree Care Expert (Maryland Department of Natural Resources)
Applicants Must:
- Submit a completed application, including a current resume and a letter of recommendation from their supervisor.
- Be an MRPA member in good standing.
- Be employed full-time by a parks and recreation agency or organization.
- Applications are due on 7/31/26
Session Dates:
The 2026–2027 Operations University session dates are listed below. Please note that dates are subject to change. Applicants should confirm their availability for all dates when completing the application. Attendance at all sessions is required for successful completion of the program.
- Session 1: 8/19/26
- Session 2: 9/16/26 and 9/17/26
- Session 3: October 15th to 16th (Overnight)
- Session 4: 11/18/26
- Session 5: 12/16/26
- Session 6: 1/6/27
- Session 7: 2/17/27
- Practice Presentation: 3/3/27
- Practice Presentation: 3/24/27
- MRPA Conference: 4/6/27-4/8/27
- Hyatt Regency Chesapeake, Cambridge Maryland.
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Program Fee:
$650 per participant
The program fee includes facility and speaker costs, training materials, meals during sessions, and admission to the MRPA Conference Banquet.
Please Note: Registration for the MRPA Annual Conference and any additional conference-related expenses are not included in the program fee.
Questions?
Please contact one of the Operations University Committee Co-Chairs:
Jessica Corazza: jcorazza@rockvillemd.gov
Joshua Taylor: Joshua.taylor@montgomeryparks.org
Marcel Frazier: marcel.frazier@pgparks.com
Application Deadline for Operations University is July 31, 2026.
Please Note:
- This webpage will be updated as we firm up dates and locations for each session.
- You will not be billed until after acceptance into the program.  Individuals or agencies may submit payment via credit card or invoice.
- The 2026 MRPA Annual Conference will be held April 6-8, 2027 at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina in Cambridge, Maryland.
