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.
- Application Deadline Extended to August 7, 2026.
Operations University Class of 2027 Schedule:
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.
August 19, 2026
Intro to Program / Pope Farm Tour
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Saddlebrook Park Police Headquarters
12751 Layhill Road
Wheaton, MD 20906
September 16, 2026
Registered Pesticide Applicator Certification / Horticulture
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Glenview Mansion
603 Edmonston Drive
Rockville, MD 20850
October 15–16, 2026
Leadership – Overnight Session
Arrival: TBD
Location: American Legion Southern District Youth Camp
9201 Surratts Road
Cheltenham, MD 20623
November 16, 2026
Smart Salting Certification
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Cecil County Administration Building
200 Chesapeake Boulevard
Elkton, MD 21921
December 16, 2026
Topic: TBD
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: TBD
January 6, 2027
Playground Maintenance Certification
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Playground Specialists
29 Apples Church Road
Thurmont, MD 21788
February 17, 2027
Practice Presentations
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Gaithersburg Arts Barn
311 Kent Square Road
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
March 3, 2027
Athletic Fields Certification
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Watkins Regional Park
301 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
March 4, 2027
Professional Fertilizer Applicator Certification
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Watkins Regional Park
301 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
March 24, 2027
Presentations to Classmates / Supervisors
Arrival: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Gaithersburg Arts Barn
311 Kent Square Road
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
April 6–8, 2027
MRPA Annual Conference – Final Presentations & Award Banquet
Location: Hyatt Regency Chesapeake
100 Heron Boulevard
Cambridge, MD
Schedule, topics, times, and locations are subject to change.
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
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.
