Education
SECTOR
Level
TYPE OF CLASS
LANGUAGE
CERTIFICATION / INDUSTRY SESSION
Basic Water Chemistry: The 3 P’s of Pool Care
Room: 351 A
Free Session
Basic water chemistry is the core of everything we do as Pool Care Professionals. Understanding why we add chemicals, when we add chemicals, and how we add chemicals to take care of pools is the foundation of proper pool care. This course will focus on the 3 P's of Pool Care: 1) Prevent Disease 2) Protect Equipment 3) Provide the Expected Environment. We will explore water balance, pool care maintenance programs, as well as basic troubleshooting in order for attendees to leave this course armed with the knowledge to be effective pool care maintenance technicians
3 objectives:
- Understand the basics of water balance in a pool: pH, Total Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness, and the Saturation Index
- Be able to create a pool care program that will deliver the 3 P's of Pool Care
- Understand the importance of sanitizing, oxidizing, algae control, and balance and be able to solve issues that arise in maintaining these water balance parameters.
Speaker
Alicia Stephens
BIOLAB, Inc; A KIK CUSTOM PRODUCTS COMPA
Alicia Stephens is the Director of Training and Education for Biolab, Inc and leads all education and training initiatives for the Biolab Pro Dealer division. As a 24-year veteran of the industry, Alicia started her career in technical and product support, and built on that experience to focus her efforts on the education and training of both internal and external employees. You may have read one of the many articles Alicia has had published or attended one of her talks at an industry event
Alicia Stephens
How to avoid unnecessary callbacks.
Room: 351 C
Free Session
Learn tips and tricks on how to not lose money in the form of time due to pesky callbacks that could have been avoided.
Standard tools used
Inspection of parts
Best practice
Speaker
William Pietri
pietriperfectpools@gmail.com
William entered the Aquatics industry in 1993, at 17 years old. He has worked his eay throughout the industry during his lifetime. Starting as a beachfront lifeguard in NYC then moving to swim instructor, coach, competition referee, lifeguard instructor, facilities director, and finally owner/operator at Pietri Perfect Pools, LLC, and IPSSA Austin/Region 9 Treasurer.
William Pietri
GENESIS® C252: Science, Math, and Art: 3 Essential Ingredients for Installing Seamless, Long-lasting and Beautiful All Tile Pools. (1.5 Hours | 1 PHTA CEUs)
Room: 350 DE
Free Session
Take a journey through a series of all tile vessels as Greg Andrews shares several invaluable installation techniques he’s developed throughout his 40 year career as a tile installer.
Review proper material selection for your project, including Tile, Waterproofing, Mortar Mixes, Adhesives and Grouts
Learn to evaluate the shape and condition of the pool surface, and how to best prepare it for tile installation
Study several types of pool shapes and learn how to compartmentalize layout options and blend them together into a seamless installation.
Understand the importance of controlling the installation environment and review several viable options to keep temperature parameters within an acceptable range.
Speaker
Greg Andrews
Genesis
Greg Andrews is a nationally renowned and award-winning tile contractor and glass mosaic expert. Having completed some of the most intricate and detail-oriented pools in the country, he's well known for his mastery of pool tile installations. While still active in installations, Greg's focus in the past decade has gradually turned towards industry involvement in the form of teaching, lecturing, training, and consulting. He also manages a Pool Tile Technical Committee through National Tile and Stone Authority, a consulting firm that he co-founded. This level of involvement keeps Greg connected with top tiered tile installers and product manufacturers throughout the country, and up-to-date with the latest in product technology and installation techniques.
Greg Andrews
Creating a Video-First Strategy for 24/7 Sales and Customer Service
Room: 351 C
Free Session
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, a Video-First strategy is essential for businesses to maximize their sales and customer service potential. This session will provide an in-depth exploration of how to implement a Video-First approach across various platforms and functions, from social media and search engine marketing to website conversions and customer service. Attendees will discover the power of video in creating engaging content for educational podcasts, automating appointment setting and sales, and enhancing reputation management through user-generated content. By adopting a Video-First strategy, businesses can ensure 24/7 customer engagement, improve lead conversion rates, and build a more authentic and trustworthy brand.
- Implement a Video-First Strategy through Social Media and Search Engine Marketing:
Learn how to leverage video content to increase brand visibility and engagement on social media platforms. Understand the impact of video on search engine marketing and how it can drive more traffic and leads. - Enhance Website Conversion Rates with a Video-First Approach:
E xplore techniques to integrate video into your website to boost visitor engagement and conversion rates. Discover best practices for creating compelling video content that drives action. - Utilize Video for Customer Service and Reputation Management:
Learn how to use video for effective customer service interactions, including appointment setting and sales automation. Understand the role of user-generated video content in enhancing reputation management, building trust, and authenticity with your audience.
Speaker
Pam Vinje
Small Screen Producer
Pam Vinje is the CEO of Small Screen Producer’s Pool Marketing Site. Pam is a long-standing frequent speaker at industry shows and is a content resource for industry publications. Since 2009 her firm has been a well-respected digital marketing presence in the pool and spa industry. Creative at the core, and a tech geek at heart, she leads an innovative digital marketing team that enables her clients to stay ahead of the curve.
Pam Vinje
GENESIS® D166: A Simulated First Meeting: How to Decode what the Client Shows You, into what the Client Actually Wants. (1.5 Hours | 1 PHTA CEUs)
Room: 350 DE
Free Session
Whether influencer driven or highly individual, your potential clients have a design style that you will need to quickly connect with to get the contract. Demonstrating that you can see their vision as clearly as they do will help you stand apart from the competition. In this session you will watch a renowned designer be put spontaneously on the spot with live-reveal back-yard inspirations for 2 different client’s visions and styles. The designer will give her impromptu responses and insights and will teach you how to link the dream design and current space and talk about how to book the gig. Join us for this walk-through simulation and learn how to nail improvised feedback as if you have been preparing for weeks.
Identify patterns and priorities in a client’s dream design
Adapt your pitch based on real-time feedback and current conditions
Implement your experience and design intuition into sales
Forecast the predictive expectations of style and taste and convert it into sales
Speaker
Kate Wiseman, MLA
Wiseman is the principal landscape designer at Sage Outdoor Designs, a firm specializing in beautiful residential landscapes in Southern California. Her designs have been widely published both locally and nationally, and she has been recognized in San Diego Home and Garden Lifestyles “Gardens of the Year” contest four times, including the grand-prize winning design in 2007.
Kate Wiseman, MLA
Hazard Communication & Hazardous Materials for Pool Pros
Room: 351 C
Free Session
Identify the employer’s responsibilities under the HCS, including training requirements. Identify components of a Hazard Communication program. Describe requirements of the different types of Hazard Communication labels. Locate pertinent information about chemicals on labels, including other forms of hazard communication, to ensure “right to understanding” provisions of GHS requirements. Given current OSHA and industry information regarding construction worksite illnesses, injuries, and/or fatalities, the student will be able to describe preventative/protective measures for hazardous materials found in the workplace.
Explore employer responsibilities with respect to the Hazard Communication Standard.
Identify types of hazardous materials and how exposures can occur in order to reduce injury or death.
Discuss how the Globally Harmonized System has been developed to protect workers when using products developed and distributed worldwide.
Speaker
Lauren Broom
Space Coast Pool School, LLC
Lauren Broom is an Authorized Certified Pool Operator Course (CPO)® Instructor through the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. She is the owner of Space Coast Pool School, LLC for the past 11 years. She attended the University of Central Florida where she received her Bachelors in Biology. She also hold current designation as a Registered Sanitarian (certification in public health). She has 17 years experience in the inspection of commercial pools in Florida as a commercial public pool inspector from the
Lauren Broom
GENESIS® C310: Advanced Tile Cutting Techniques for Pools, Spas, and Water Features (1.5 Hours | 1 PHTA CEUs)
Room: 350 DE
Free Session
This course will explore the sometimes daunting task of cutting tile in pools, particularly all tile vessels where cutting around pipes or negotiating depth changes, curvatures, and corners can offer unique challenges.
Gain an understanding of essential tools required for properly cutting glass and porcelain tile, including diamond blades, core drills, polishing disks, sanding disks, scoring wheels, carbide nippers, and more.
Learn how to pre-mount and cut sheets of tile into drain covers, skimmers, and other applications for easy and universal placement.
Acquire the skills necessary to template and cut around fittings using core bits for precise circular cuts.
Learn how to cut and seam together the curvatures in the floor/wall transition of all tile pools.
Speaker
Greg Andrews
Genesis
Greg Andrews is a nationally renowned and award-winning tile contractor and glass mosaic expert. Having completed some of the most intricate and detail-oriented pools in the country, he's well known for his mastery of pool tile installations. While still active in installations, Greg's focus in the past decade has gradually turned towards industry involvement in the form of teaching, lecturing, training, and consulting. He also manages a Pool Tile Technical Committee through National Tile and Stone Authority, a consulting firm that he co-founded. This level of involvement keeps Greg connected with top tiered tile installers and product manufacturers throughout the country, and up-to-date with the latest in product technology and installation techniques.
Greg Andrews
GENESIS® E106: Hiring an Engineer Without Remorse (1.5 Hours | 1 PHTA CEUs)
Room: 350 DE
Free Session
Not every backyard swimming pool and spa project needs the attention of an engineer but occasionally a builder finds himself over his head with soil foundation issues, cantilevered structures, pier supported pools, deep fills, adjacent structures, complex hydraulics, logistical issues such as remote access, elevated pool structures, and other, more complicated issues. This brief 1-hour seminar takes students through the ins and outs of hiring a consulting engineer to assist with swimming pool and spa design. Items discussed will include the qualifications a pool professional should look for in an engineer, the types of engineers and firms that routinely take on swimming pool engagements, fee structures, professional liability insurance and division of responsibility. And finally, we will discuss training your engineer for your individual type of pool work and building relationships for the long-term.
Develop for the student a personal criterion for when an engineer is necessary and when one is not.
Investigate the process of finding and vetting engineering professionals on the basis of their experience and qualifications.
Prepare builders to discuss contractual arrangements and fees with engineers.
Enable builders to create a plan for building a relationship with an engineer or firm by cooperative training specifically in the types and locations in which the builder specializes.
Speaker
Terry Brannon, P.E
Genesis Speaker
Terry Brannon, P.E., GENESIS Engineering Faculty Chair: Terry Brannon began his career in public works, beginning with the cities of Irving and Tyler in Texas before founding The Brannon Corporation. He continues to specialize in public works projects, but the firm has carved out an aquatic niche using their expertise in water conveyance and treatment and structural design. Brannon is registered in 23 states as a licensed professional engineer. Now in semi-retirement from the engineering consulting business—50 years total in engineering and 40 years in aquatics—Brannon keeps himself busy sharing his experiences by writing and training engineers and contractors in the design and construction of aquatic facilities from public fountains, to splash pads, water parks, competition venues, lakes and streams, and private pools. He continues as a consultant to various construction management companies, hotels and resorts, municipalities, and branches of the U.S. Department of Defense.
Terry Brannon, P.E
Heat Pump Pool Heaters Demystified and Simplified
Room: 351 A
Free Session
What IS a heat pump anyway? How do they work? What's so great about them? Attendees at this seminar will learn all this and much more as we explore the future of pool heating WITHOUT burning gas. Many parts of the country are moving toward eliminating gas-burning appliances, and Heat Pump technology is the most efficient replacement. However, it’s not a direct replacement for gas burners. Come and learn what they do and what you and your customers can expect.
How heat pumps work
heat pump pros and cons
managing customer expectations
Speaker
Brad Duncan
Raypak
Brad Duncan entered the pool industry in 1993 as a pole pusher, eventually mastering all aspects of pool maintenance. With over two decades of hands-on experience, Brad's distinct public speaking style effortlessly conveys appliance functions and essential maintenance needs. Specializing in swimming pool heaters, Brad joined Raypak in 2017 as a product specialist and trainer. His unique approach blends field expertise with classroom instruction.
Brad Duncan
In the Field Best Practices Getting From Gunite to Plaster
Room: 350 F
Free Session
When managing pool renovations, it’s vital to understand the practical process of taking the vessel back to the gunite stage and creating a proper new surface for your customer. In this session, Edgar Sanchez of Modern Method Gunite will not only examine how they manage the process but also provide practical insights on what steps MMG takes to ensure the vessel is prepared properly, what products and tools are utilized, and how they manage the installation. This session is designed for anyone who is currently handling renovations or interested in learning practical tips from in-the-field installers.
(FYI - I have tried multiple times to submit the .pdf with no success)
- Discuss the process used to prepare the pool for renovations.
- Examine best practices to ensure the surface is ready for application.
- Review common tools used and how to apply the finish properly.
Speaker
Edgar Sanchez
Modern Method Gunite
Edgar Sanchez leads Modern Method Gunite with an unparalleled passion for excellence. Believing in a TEAM (Trust, Excellence, Attitude and Motivation) culture, he ensures his employees carry MMG's values: family, quality, and the promise to go above and beyond. As COO of the largest gunite contractor in Houston and largest PebbleTec applicator globally, Sanchez is a Baylor University and Harvard Executive Education graduate and has held leadership positions with numerous organizations.
Edgar Sanchez
How to create content for your pool company for your website, Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook.
Room: 351 B
Free Session
Are you struggling to create content on your website and all the different social media websites? We will show you shortcuts to creating content for your website, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. We will show you where to find the content and how to make sure it is original to you and your company. We will show you how to use AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools and also other mediums to create that content. We will also show you how to discover trends quickly so you can create content related to those trends.
- Show how to use google scholars, podcast and youtube as inspiration for content for your website and social media.
- Show how to use AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools for original ideas.
- Show how to create content by following trends on social media.
Speakers
Dan Eby
Distinct Stone Solutions
Dan Eby has 20 years of experience in SEO (Search Engine Optimization). He has social media marketing experience with over 16 years of experience in internet marketing in the pool industry. He has worked in digital marketing on both the pool supply and along with pool builders and pool services for those 16 years. Dan has worked on over 1000 websites. Dan has also worked with pool builders in different cities so he understands the difference between different markets.
Dan Eby
Yamilete Walton
Distinct Stone Solutions
Yamilete Walton has worked in marketing for 6 years. She has a degree in psychology giving her an understanding of how marketing works along with human behavior. Yamilete works with social media with Distinct Stone Solutions with experience in Tiktok. She engages with both the English and Spanish community. Yamilete has worked extensively with contractors, end users and distributors in order to assist them in their marketing efforts.
Yamilete Walton
Chlorine Generators
Room: 360 C
Free Session
This presentation will cover the basics of chlorine generators beginning with how they operate to convert pool water with salt into chlorinated water.
Understand how chlorine generators utilize electrolysis in order to produce chlorinated water.
Understand the chemistry of chlorine generation
Perform basic troubleshooting of a Jandy chlorine generator
Speaker
Kevin Poe
Fluidra
Kevin Poe began his love of pools and water at an early age. His career in the pool industry began in 1992 in Greenville, SC. That first job followed by a Repair Department Manager position in the Lowcountry of SC. He joined Fluidra in 2011 as a Territory Service Manager based in TN. He joined Fluidra Pro Academy in January of 2020 as a Regional Trainer.
Kevin Poe
How to Offer Pool Financing & Increase Sales
Room: 360 B
Free Session
Nearly 75% of all home improvement projects over $2,500 are financed: Is financing a tool your business is utilizing? Learn in easy-to-understand terms from a veteran of both the pool and finance industries why offering financing to every customer is crucial to your success, now more than ever. Joe Garcia explains how to leverage loan options for your customers to increase their buying power (and your sales)! Discover how to adjust your sales strategy to increase your lead-to-sale and sell-to-dig ratios without high-pressure tactics. Turn prospective pool customers into pool buyers with these insightful tips!
- Learn the importance of financing in today’s economic climate
- Learn how offering financing to your customers can increase your average ticket size and overall sales to grow your business
- Learn how to seamlessly incorporate financing into your sales pitch without awkward, high-pressure sales tactics
Speaker
Joe Garcia
Lyon Financial
Joe Garcia is the Sr. Business Development Manager of National Sales for Lyon Financial. He has extensive experience in both the pool and finance industries, having previously served as Sales Director for the Dallas location of one of the country's top pool franchises, in addition to being the Home Equity Area Relationship Manager at Capital One and Vice President/Bank Center Manager at Chase. He is a Dallas native, where he resides with his wife and children.
Joe Garcia
Chemical Conflicts & How to Avoid Them
Room: 360 A
Free Session
Do you know all the side effects of each product used in your pools? Most pool pros are unaware of the potential chemical conflicts that can be created in everyday pool care. Some chemical conflicts are very dangerous, while others may be costly nuisances. Come learn about which chemicals are compatible with each other and which ones are not. This class will cover best-known practices for handling, transporting, and storing chemicals. It will also share alternatives to common conflicting chemicals and practices.
- Distinguish between primary and secondary chemicals
- Identify potential hazards in work vehicles based on how chemicals are stored and secured
- Learn compatible alternatives to common chemical conflicts and costly bad practices
Speaker
Ryan Rickaby
HASA/Orenda
Ryan Rickaby grew up in Southern California in the family pool business. He has over thirty years of experience in the pool industry - everything from servicing pools, working retail to chemical sales. Ryan transitioned into chemical sales while in Southern California and eventually moved to the Texas market in 2014. He loves teaching people about water chemistry and how to be successful in the pool business.
Ryan Rickaby
Conflictos quimicos y como evitarlos (This Session Will Be Presented In Spanish)
Room: 360 A
Free Session
Sabe acaso el impacto que pueden tener cada uno de los químicos que utiliza para el mantenimiento semanal en sus piscinas? Algunos químicos son conflictivos entre si y dejan subproductos y a veces contaminantes a largo plazo. Aprenda más acerca de las mejores practicas de uso, manejo y almacenamiento de los productos químicos populares en esta clase.
Learning objectives:
Distinguir entre químicos primarios y secundarios
Identificar los peligros y riesgos que se pueden presentar a la hora de manejar los productos químicos de piscina
Aprender acerca de las diferentes alternativas para evitar conflictos químicos y costosos daños
Speaker
Miguel Chavez
HASA/Orenda
Miguel Chavez has led the Spanish Educational Program for Orenda Technologies since 2021. He is passionate about chemistry, swimming and recreational water activities. He had a very successful swimming career that spanned for over 18 years. This allowed him to attend college in the United States and also represent his home country Mexico in the international swimming stage.
Miguel Chavez
Hot Water Chemistry: It’s Not Just a Little Pool
Room: 360 C
Free Session
This presentation will focus on nuances of spa water chemistry, highlighting the differences in chemistry between spas and pools. Topics of discussion will include the impact of aeration, volume, temperature, and bather load as well as the challenges associated with balancing in a hot water environment. Recreational water illnesses common to spas will also be discussed, with a focus on how to prevent problems from occurring.
3 objectives:
- Identify differences in pool and spa chemistry and learn how to compensate for those differences in a spa.
- Learn the importance of water balance and how to manage the spa chemistry to protect bathers from illness and maximize efficiency.
- Learn troubleshooting techniques for common spa problems
Speaker
Alicia Stephens
BIOLAB, Inc; A KIK CUSTOM PRODUCTS COMPA
Alicia Stephens is the Director of Training and Education for Biolab, Inc and leads all education and training initiatives for the Biolab Pro Dealer division. As a 24-year veteran of the industry, Alicia started her career in technical and product support, and built on that experience to focus her efforts on the education and training of both internal and external employees. You may have read one of the many articles Alicia has had published or attended one of her talks at an industry event
Alicia Stephens
Algae: The Good, The Bad, It’s Ugly
Room: 360 A
Free Session
Algae is something that pool professionals deal with routinely in pool care maintenance. The pool industry has several options for products and programs to treat algae, or better yet to prevent it from occurring. This course will of focus on the science of algae, highlighted by recent research that explains resistant algae and why some treatments are more effective than others. Upon completion, participants will understand how and why algae grows in pools, as well as have a comprehensive understanding of how to treat and prevent it.
3 objectives:
- Understand how and why algae grows in pools
- Be familiar with the different types of algae that are found in pools and their characteristics
- Be able to effectively prevent or treat all types of algae that are found in pools by effectively identifying the correct course of treatment necessary.
Speaker
Alicia Stephens
BIOLAB, Inc; A KIK CUSTOM PRODUCTS COMPA
Alicia Stephens is the Director of Training and Education for Biolab, Inc and leads all education and training initiatives for the Biolab Pro Dealer division. As a 24-year veteran of the industry, Alicia started her career in technical and product support, and built on that experience to focus her efforts on the education and training of both internal and external employees. You may have read one of the many articles Alicia has had published or attended one of her talks at an industry event
Alicia Stephens
Staining, Scaling and Discoloration
Room: 360 A
Free Session
Ever wonder where and how some of the stains, build-up and discolorations we get in our pools and spas? How do you identify them? How do we remove them and maybe more importantly, how can we prevent them from coming back? Join Tim Berry from Jack's Magic to learn the scenarios and catalysts for such occurrences, general characteristics, and preventative maintenance that will set you apart and add value to your service.
Learn and understand different water balance scenarios that are the catalyst for staining in swimming pools.
- Learn and understand the general characteristics and differences between organic and inorganic stains.
- Learn and understand how being proactive vs. reactive in your preventative maintenance sets you apart from other industry professionals.
Speaker
Timothy Berry
Jack's Magic Inc.
Tim Berry has worked in the pool and spa industry for 32 years. After working for a spa store through college, he joined Leslie's Poolmart in 1995 and managed stores in Palm Springs, CA as well as Texas. In 2004, he joined BioLab, Inc. selling dealer direct as District Manager for the South Texas, Southern Louisiana and Central Mississippi. In early 2021, he was hired by Jack's Magic Inc. for N. Texas, AR and OK. His theatre performance background serves him well as a public speaker.
Timothy Berry
GENESIS® C201: Construction School: Concrete Pools. (Day 1 of 3)
Room: 340 AB
Paid Course
This comprehensive concrete construction school is one of two programs that satisfies the education requirement to sit for the Certified Builder Professional (CBP) exam. Attendees spend three days with a team of expert faculty, learning all of the necessary disciplines for building a structurally sound water vessel. Topics covered include site analysis, introductory fluid engineering, geotechnical and structural engineering that includes a review of difficult sites, shotcrete, waterproofing, tile, interior finishes, coping, and concrete decking. This program is designed to move each student through all phases of concrete pool construction in great detail, unlike anything else offered in the industry. Attendees have the opportunity to learn from top experts in their field, ask questions, and begin a relationship with the faculty that doesn't end when the class is over. GENESIS® courses deliver the highest quality education in the industry.
This is a required course to become a Certified Builder Professional.
- Discuss Basic Pool Plumbing, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Electrical Engineering
- Define Layout, Forming & Excavation, Infrastructure Coordination, Shotcrete, Waterproofing
- List Basic Tile & Coping, Concrete Decking, Pre-Plaster Preparation, Cementitious Pool Finishes
- Discuss Startup, Punch List & Project Closeout, Project Profile
Member Fee Price: $ 2,090.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 2,590.00
Speakers
Terry Brannon, P.E
Genesis Speaker
Terry Brannon, P.E., GENESIS Engineering Faculty Chair: Terry Brannon began his career in public works, beginning with the cities of Irving and Tyler in Texas before founding The Brannon Corporation. He continues to specialize in public works projects, but the firm has carved out an aquatic niche using their expertise in water conveyance and treatment and structural design. Brannon is registered in 23 states as a licensed professional engineer. Now in semi-retirement from the engineering consulting business—50 years total in engineering and 40 years in aquatics—Brannon keeps himself busy sharing his experiences by writing and training engineers and contractors in the design and construction of aquatic facilities from public fountains, to splash pads, water parks, competition venues, lakes and streams, and private pools. He continues as a consultant to various construction management companies, hotels and resorts, municipalities, and branches of the U.S. Department of Defense.
Terry Brannon, P.E
Greg Andrews
Genesis
Greg Andrews is a nationally renowned and award-winning tile contractor and glass mosaic expert. Having completed some of the most intricate and detail-oriented pools in the country, he’s well known for his mastery of pool tile installations. While still active in installations, Greg’s focus in the past decade has gradually turned towards industry involvement in the form of teaching, lecturing, training, and consulting. He also manages a Pool Tile Technical Committee through National Tile and Stone Authority, a consulting firm that he co-founded. This level of involvement keeps Greg connected with top tiered tile installers and product manufacturers throughout the country, and up-to-date with the latest in product technology and installation techniques.
Greg Andrews
Randy Dukes
Genesis
Randy Dukes is regarded as one of the foremost authorities in the pool plaster industry relating to deterioration, discoloration, and staining phenomena that are commonly associated with cement-based pool coatings. He has served as a moderator and keynote speaker for many of the National Plasterers Conventions starting in 1992 and has instructed courses on “The Science of Cementitious Pool Finishes, Startups, and Maintenance.” Dukes has spent a considerable amount of time traveling throughout the U.S. researching and identifying pool surface problems and their relationship to application, water chemistry, and chemical abuse. Author of Pool Surfaces, Problems, and Solutions.
Randy Dukes
IPSSA Basic Water Chemistry Certification
Room: 360 F
Paid Course
IPSSA's Basic Training Manual -Part 1 (written by noted industry expert, Robert Lowry) focuses on water chemistry and covers: properties of water; pool types; volume calculations, standards, and measurements; water chemistry and balance; chemistry of chlorination; types of chlorine; protecting chlorine; chlorine generators, bromine, and ozone; water testing; and chemical adjustments. It also includes an extensive glossary and practice test questions, easy-to-use chapter tabs, many graphics, charts, and tables. (This course includes a manual for each class for each student, and the ability to test and certify on a student provided, web connected device at the end of each class.
Price: $ 75.00
Speakers
Electrical License Prep Course for the Texas RAIL License
Room: 360 D
Paid Course
The Texas Residential Appliance Installer License (often called the RAIL or TRAIL license) is required for all pool and spa service people that are replacing or repairing swimming pool and spa electrical equipment in Texas.This workshop was created to help service people pass the exam. It is not intended to teach how to repair or service swimming pool electrical equipment. This workshop was developed after many experienced and well trained pool service people found it very difficult to pass the Texas State Residential Appliance Installer License exam. If you have been replacing pumps since 2009 without a license- you are subject to fines of $2000-$5000 per incident- and they can ask to see your records for the last 4 years! You will be provided a copy of the 2023 NEC Code book(softbound), tabs, workbooks, and other materials to get you ready for the study that you need to pass the RAIL Exam.
- To understand what the Texas RAIL License is. What work are we allowed to do with this license.
- How to study and prepare for the exam, including tips on the contents of the NEC book, Ohm's Law and other calculations.
- Stategies and Tactics to help you do better on the exam.
Price: $ 650.00
Speaker
Kevin Tucker
Educational Leverage,LLC
Kevin has been working in and around swimming pools for over 50 years. His education includes a strong science and technical background with a BS from the University of Texas in Austin and graduate work at Kansas State University. Kevin has worked with a pool builder, a chemical company (BioLab), an equipment manufacturer (Sta-Rite), an importer of aquatic therapy and exercise equipment (H2OGym-US, LLC), and has consulted and trained for other swimming pool related companies.
Kevin Tucker
GENESIS® D211: Elements of Design (Day 1 of 2)
Room: 350 D
Paid Course
This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of good design and will teach you how to lay out the different improvements in your projects (e.g. pool, spa, patio, etc.). We will break the fundamentals down into two categories: the Elements of Design and the Principles of Design. Once you have a good grasp of the fundamentals, you will learn how to apply them. We will start with short practice exercises and build up to a final project: creating a master plan that includes a pool and spa.
This is a required course to become a Certified Expert Pool Builder & Design Professional.
- Discuss fundamental Elements (e.g., line, color, and form) and Principles (e.g., unity, balance, and scale) of design.
- Define perceptual skills and a better understanding of spatial organization and spatial relationships.
- Use these concepts to design beautiful spaces that connect with the surrounding environment.
- Use your communication skills to accurately portray your design intent to the client.
Member Fee Price: $ 1,690.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 2,190.00
Speaker
Kate Wiseman, MLA
Wiseman is the principal landscape designer at Sage Outdoor Designs, a firm specializing in beautiful residential landscapes in Southern California. Her designs have been widely published both locally and nationally, and she has been recognized in San Diego Home and Garden Lifestyles “Gardens of the Year” contest four times, including the grand-prize winning design in 2007.
Kate Wiseman, MLA
Certified Pool Operator – CPO Certification (Day 1 of 2)
Room: 360 E
Paid Course
CPO certification provides individuals with the knowledge, techniques, and skills required for proper pool operations.
Available in-person
Course materials are up-to-date with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC)
Content is supported and researched by actual scientists that are active and hands-on in the aquatic industry!
Content covers both commercial and residential pools
Students receive one-on-one support from your Instructor
PHTA Customer Service Support is available by phone, email, or web chat
Certification leads to education growth opportunities
Course is IACET, Florida CILB, California Department of Public Health, and Environmental Health Association approved
Certification is valid for 5 years
You will learn how to:
Reduce risks in and around the water
Prevent drowning, recreational water illness, suction entrapment, evisceration, diving accidents, electrocutions, chemical hazards, and slips and falls
Address regulatory guidelines
Maintain disinfection and water balance
Manage water problems
Perform troubleshooting, chemical testing, and record keeping
Manage chemical feed
Utilize automation and technology
Price: $ 563.00
Speaker
Heather Linton
Integrity Consultants, LLC
From business strategies to best practices, Heather Linton has over fifteen years of developing and perfecting tools to succeed in our industry. Her business knowledge comes from real-world experience, rather than the standard “book” learning. Over the last 15 years, she has been honored to walk alongside people who have become true friends while we work together to achieve our business goals and has learned from top individuals in our industry.
Heather Linton
IPSSA Equipment Certification
Room: 350 F
Paid Course
This course will cover volume formulas and proper flow and turnover rates. We will cover proper sizing and mating of pool equipment for various conditions. The course will also cover the design, operation, theory, and maintenance of most common types of filters, pumps, heaters, and pool accessories.
Price: $ 75.00
Speakers
Watershape University Construction 4231: ASA Best Practices for Shotcrete (2 Hours/.20 CEU)
Room: 351 DE
Free Session
This in-depth program details the requirement established by the American Concrete Institute, American Shotcrete Association and other organizations for concrete structures and shotcrete. The ASA contributes to the development of the ACI codes, which include shotcrete-specific guidelines and position statements designed to help ensure proper placement and overall strength. Students will examine the important requirements of ACI Shotcrete Nozzleman Certification.
- Define code requirements for shotcrete found in the International Building Code, the American Concrete Institute 318 & 350.
- Review American Shotcrete Association’s guidelines and position statements.
- Discuss design, engineering, details, overview of parameters needed in place before, during, and after shooting takes place.
- Examine nozzleman certification.
Speakers
Bill Drakeley, ACI, ASA, IWI
Watershape
William Drakeley is an award-winning shotcrete technologist specializing in concrete science and construction, particularly shotcrete applications, techniques and standards, with thirty years (+) experience in shotcrete installation, waterfeature and geotech design and construction. Services include consultation and review, training and testing and expert testimony. He’s principal and founder of Drakeley Pool Company, a luxury design and build firm based in New England; and, Drakeley Industries, an international consulting firm focusing on shotcrete applications and techniques, notably providing training for the New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority underground tunneling projects. An educator and advocate for high industry standards, Bill has most recently developed and launched Watershape University (WU) with colleague David Peterson, P.E. to provide the highest quality of live instruction of business, design, engineering and construction programs to students of all levels of pool, spa, aquatics and outdoor living sectors. Bill has conducted trainings for the Colorado School of Mines, the American Society of Landscape Architects (CT), World of Concrete, GENESIS3 Aqua Show, NESPA, and others. His technical writings have been widely published in trade magazines and e- publications.
Bill Drakeley, ACI, ASA, IWI
Charles Hanskat
American Shotcrete Association
Charles Hanskat, PE, is a Fellow member of ACI and ASCE. He is Executive/Technical Director of the American Shotcrete Association. He has been a licensed professional engineer for over 40 years. Hanskat has been involved in the design, construction, evaluation, and repair of environmental concrete, marine, building and shotcrete structures throughout his career. Hanskat is active in developing codes and standards from many professional and technical engineering societies including ACI and ASTM.
Charles Hanskat
Residential Swimming Pool Lighting Design
Room: 351 B
Free Session
This course will dive into the best practices for residential swimming pool lighting design.
Identify where lights should be placed in a residential pool
Identify the effects of colored pool surface on how well the light travels
Identify where not to place lights in a swimming pool.
Speaker
Kevin Poe
Fluidra
Kevin Poe began his love of pools and water at an early age. His career in the pool industry began in 1992 in Greenville, SC. That first job followed by a Repair Department Manager position in the Lowcountry of SC. He joined Fluidra in 2011 as a Territory Service Manager based in TN. He joined Fluidra Pro Academy in January of 2020 as a Regional Trainer.
Kevin Poe
Watershape University WU C2921: Profiling Outstanding Projects Start to Finish (1.0 hours / .1 CEU)
Room: 351 DE
Free Session
WU’s Project Profile Track highlights outstanding and unique work presented by the industry’s leading designers and builders. The instructor will profile one or more projects, explaining why certain decisions were made in both design and construction, showing photos of work in progress to share construction methodoligies, potential pitfalls, and discussing lessons learned.
- Review high-end residential project profiles.Examine, project conditions, client expectations and design challenges.
- Describe the collaborative process with clients and other project team members.
- List design changes, engineering considerations, project limitations, design and detail execution.
- Discuss completed projects and learning experiences/takeaways.
Speaker
Ben Lasseter, IWI
Design Ecology Austin
As Partner and Director of Construction, Benjamin is responsible for bringing Design Ecology’s designs to life. He oversees all construction projects from planning to completion while managing a skilled team of craftsmen to provide unparalleled attention to detail. After earning his B.S. in Horticulture at Texas A&M Benjamin gained valuable experience working as Assistant Superintendent on one of the nation’s top resort golf courses. He moved on to manage the construction division of a landscape architecture firm for 4 years where he built luxury estate landscapes and pools. Benjamin opened his own landscape design and construction company in early 2009 & joined with Scott Cummings, RLA, ASLA and CB in 2010 to form Design Ecology.
Ben Lasseter, IWI
Keeping your swimming pool business out of legal hot water. Practical advice from the litigation battlefield.
Room: 351 B
Free Session
Where does your legal responsibility begin and end when you enter a backyard to service a pool? Are you aware that you may be liable for issues you never imagined? Are you using the simple procedures that can limit your liability and provide you with a legal defense? Ray Arouesty has been a leading insurance broker and attorney involved in the swimming pool business for over 40 years. He will focus on the ways service techs can protect themselves prior to an insurance claim or lawsuit.
The attendees should:
- Recognize that their responsiblity may be greater than they think;
- Understand that written documentation, including a service contract, will increase their chances of winning lawsuit; and
- Learn to listen to their client's complaints before the lawyers get involved
Speaker
Ray Arouesty
Arrow Insurance/HUB International
Ray Arouesty is the endorsed insurance provider to IPSSA since 1988 and the endorsed insurance provider to the National Plasterers Council (NPC) and the Swimming Pool Association of Hawaii (SPAH). He practiced law for over 30 years in California and has handled over 3000 swimming pool related claims. His articles have appeared in Service Industry News, Aqua, Pool & Spa News and other industry publications. He was a licensed contractor and is water chemistry certified by IPSSA.
Ray Arouesty
Requirement Based Selling & Employee Development – Stand Out above the Competition
Room: 351 A
Free Session
Avoid being caught in the "Sea of Sameness" when it comes to the services and/or products your company provides. Stand out from the competition by expanding your value to your customers and making that a requirement for them if they were to use your product or service. Requirement based selling helps narrow their decision based of the customer expectations to JUST YOU! An amazing team of well hired and developed employees is a key component to achieve this level and how you develop each team member to exceed customer expectations is invaluable to your success!
Rise above the competition
Re-sell your value to the customer on a regular basis
Well Developed Team members is the key to success
Speaker
Brant Magruder
American Pool of Houston
I have been in the pool management industry in the Greater Houston area since 1997. From a lifeguard, area supervisor, director, then an executive for the past 15 years, the growth and change in our industry has been phenomenal. The areas I feel is most rewarding and important is employee development and customer relationships. In growing with 3 companies at as an executive, the areas of Requirement Based Selling to clients is essential to growth and customer retention.
Brant Magruder
Swimming Pool Water Techniques with Basecrete: A Hands-On Class
Room: 351 F
Free Session
Welcome to our hands-on class focused on swimming pool water techniques with Basecrete! In this comprehensive session, we will cover essential aspects such as proper waterproofing techniques, and the importance of waterproofing along with its numerous benefits for swimming pools.
To ensure the longevity and durability of swimming pools, it's crucial to understand the properties of waterproofing and how it interacts with pool water. Our class will delve into various testing methods for basecrete including chemical analysis, stress tests, and water immersion tests. Participants will learn how to interpret test results and make informed decisions about the suitability of specific pool applications.
Proper Waterproofing Techniques
All of Basecrete testing
Why we should waterproof and the benefits of it
Speakers
Heather Linton
Integrity Consultants, LLC
From business strategies to best practices, Heather Linton has over fifteen years of developing and perfecting tools to succeed in our industry. Her business knowledge comes from real-world experience, rather than the standard “book” learning. Over the last 15 years, she has been honored to walk alongside people who have become true friends while we work together to achieve our business goals and has learned from top individuals in our industry.
Heather Linton
Chris Linton
Country Leisure
Chris, with a wealth of expertise in repairs, building, construction, electrical work, and remote diagnostics, Chris is the cornerstone of our operations. His exceptional skills extend to customer relations, adeptly handling difficult situations and clients with a calm, solution-focused approach. Chris excels in project management, networking, sales, and providing clear direction, ensuring every project is a success. Holding a TLDR electrical license for TX
Chris Linton
La química fácil de Bob W. Lowry para piscinas residenciales
Room: 351 A
Free Session
Clase originalmente creada por Robert W. Lowry, que en paz descanse, fundador del Instituto de Capacitación en Química de Piscinas. Esta clase es una visión general de la química de piscinas residenciales durante las temperaturas de uso (en temporada alta). Esta clase abarca cómo el agua reacciona a los diferentes productos químicos y los fundamentos de química que todo profesional de piscinas necesita saber para tener éxito.
- Poder explicar la diferencia y los conceptos entre química de rango, y el equilibrio del agua
- Entender la relación entre el cloro y el ácido isocianurico.
- Entender el pH y la alcalinidad, y los factores que pueden influenciarlos.
Speaker
Miguel Chavez
HASA/Orenda
Miguel Chavez has led the Spanish Educational Program for Orenda Technologies since 2021. He is passionate about chemistry, swimming and recreational water activities. He had a very successful swimming career that spanned for over 18 years. This allowed him to attend college in the United States and also represent his home country Mexico in the international swimming stage.
Miguel Chavez
Large Format Porcelain Panels in Pools
Room: 351F
Free Session
Learn about the big trend moving towards large format porcelain panels in pools. We will take you through a visual tour of a factory showcasing how they are made, and then to hearing from one of the top 50 builders in the USA, Bo Barnett of KB Custom Pools of Austin TX who has now completed many projects utilizing these large format tiles. You will get see the unique processes required for the installation of, and then hearing firsthand what has been learned from KB Custom Pools first large format project to their latest. Important learnings as to what to expect, and what not to do with these tile panels that can come up to 6'x 10' in size. This is the most innovative trend in pool tile and a do not miss presentation.
Large format tiles
How to select and prepare for these gigantic panels and how to install.
Speaker
Curt Rapp
Tile Doctor
Curt Rapp, Founder and Chief Executive Officer Tile Doctor, has more than 40 years tile industry experience and is recognized within the industry for his extensive knowledge. Tile Doctor is one of the most innovative companies in the industry. 2-time winner of the internationally recognized Edison Award for Innovation.
Curt Rapp
Watershape University WU S3721: Expanding your Pool Construction Business: Adding Pool Maintenance Services (1.0 Hours/.1 CEU)
Room: 351 DE
Free Session
Many builders have added maintenance services to their portfolio because it provides regular cash flow and they protect their own projects for several years instead of handing it over to unqualified service companies before the plaster has even cured. Are maintenance services part of your business plan in the future? It should be considered if you are worried about cash flow and the next economic downturn. This course will outline some strategies to get started.
- Discuss integrating pool maintenance services into your existing business model, including the necessary equipment, staffing, and training requirements.
- Identify three clear, potential paths to get started in the service sector and the pros and cons of each.
- List the long-term benefits of adding maintenance services to your construction company — there are more than you think!
Speaker
Chris Volk, IWI
Watershape University Business 1325: Modern Challenges for the Pool Industry, 2025 and Beyond (1 Hour/.10 CEU)
Room: 351 DE
Free Session
This unique session is based on a 2024 survey of more than 500 pool industry business owners across the U.S. who were “What are the top concerns you are facing right now?” Presented by Brett Abbott, industry marketing consultant and founder of Pool Builder Marketing and Dane Wiseman, industry digital marketing specialist, this
presentation will review respondent’s top industry concerns, and share the specific recommendations for plotting today’s course into an uncertain tomorrow.
- Discuss shrinking lead flow and ineffective prospect generation
- Examine the effects of high interest rates, economic uncertainly and international
- Consider shrinking markets and how to integrate alternative markets
- Explore the impact and opportunities offered by artificial intelligence
Speakers
Brett Abbott
Pool Builder Marketing LLC
Brett is the founder and head marketing guru at Pool Builder Marketing LLC, a marketing company that helps pool builders, pool service companies, and high-end landscape professionals SELL MORE while SPENDING LESS on marketing and advertising – regardless of the economy. The team has been implementing advanced marketing and sales strategies, tactics and techniques exclusively for the pool industry all over the world for more than 15 years.
More info at www.PoolBuilderMarketing.com.
Brett Abbott
Dane Wiseman
Variable Speed Pump Setup and Compliance with ANSI, APSP-15
Room: 351 A
Free Session
This presentation will dive into the ANSI, APSP-15 Energy Savings Standard and how it applies to residential pools. We will go through the exercise of calculating the flow in a variable speed pump at a given rpm and follow that with how to calculate the flow at different rpms. We will high level discuss how this applies to pipe size and hydraulics.
Determine the appropriate flow through a pool system
Calculate the rpm required to maintain that flow rate
Perform an energy audit of the pool after setting the flow rates
Speaker
Kevin Poe
Fluidra
Kevin Poe began his love of pools and water at an early age. His career in the pool industry began in 1992 in Greenville, SC. That first job followed by a Repair Department Manager position in the Lowcountry of SC. He joined Fluidra in 2011 as a Territory Service Manager based in TN. He joined Fluidra Pro Academy in January of 2020 as a Regional Trainer.
Kevin Poe
Watershape University B1611: Essential Business Administration (8 Hours/1 CEU)
Room: 351 D
Paid Course
Operating a construction, service, and/or retail business can be a rewarding experience but it also comes with great responsibility and potential liability. Quality watershaping firms need to be on top of their games in both their external client-facing efforts, and also internally on corporate / personnel-facing operations. This 8-hour lecture introduces students to a broad range of important management topics and provides tools to help them apply basic best practices to their business.
- Classify and identify edge desIdentify key facets of running a business, including general and administrative issues, human resources, information technology, legal concerns, marketing, advertising, and sales
- Describe contracts, insurance, liability, and dealing with difficult clients
- Explore how to establish a healthy company culture, including hiring practices and how to retain and retrain employees to reflect that culture
- Develop strategies for growth, from marketing and sales techniques, through construction and finally seamless hand-offs to ensure positive referrals
Price: $ 1,200.00
Speakers
Watershape University C2241: Quality Shotcrete for Pools — Know it, Demand it (8 Hours/1 CEU)
Room: 351 E
Paid Course
Although you may have used shotcrete subcontractors for years, do you know what to look for to be sure you’re achieving a quality installation? Shotcrete is a familiar and widely used concrete placement method used for various applications, including swimming pools. Compared to poured concrete, it involves fundamentally different equipment, material selection, crew responsibilities, application techniques, testing, curing, and personal protection. This course from Watershape University and the American Shotcrete Association provides crucial guidance on over 40 critical elements of shotcrete application that on-site pool-contractor personnel can use to properly evaluate the overall quality of shotcrete placement. Armed with this information, observers can readily use visual clues that confirm that the material’s placement is creating a high-quality and durable concrete pool shell.Key knowledge areas include an overview of material selections, equipment, placement techniques, finishing, curing, protection, testing, and jobsite safety. This vital information will help the pool contractor or owner verify that they are getting quality work from their shotcrete subcontractors. It may also be useful to the shotcrete contractor to better communicate and confirm the quality of their work to their pool contractors or owners.
- Gain a fundamental understanding of the wet-mix and dry-mix (gunite) shotcrete process.
- Describe ACI and other Industry standards that detail acceptable shotcrete placement.
- Identify quality materials and placement methods. 4) Recognize proper application techniques, and missteps that can reduce the quality of the final
Price: $ 1,200.00
Speaker
Charles Hanskat, ASA
IPSSA Basic Water Chemistry Certification
Room: 360 F
Paid Course
IPSSA's Basic Training Manual -Part 1 (written by noted industry expert, Robert Lowry) focuses on water chemistry and covers: properties of water; pool types; volume calculations, standards, and measurements; water chemistry and balance; chemistry of chlorination; types of chlorine; protecting chlorine; chlorine generators, bromine, and ozone; water testing; and chemical adjustments. It also includes an extensive glossary and practice test questions, easy-to-use chapter tabs, many graphics, charts, and tables. (This course includes a manual for each class for each student, and the ability to test and certify on a student provided, web connected device at the end of each class.
Price: $ 75.00
Speaker
David Potts
Freedom Pool Service
David Potts started Freedom Pool Service in 2013. He joined IPSSA the following year and was asked to serve as the Treasurer of the newly forming Clear Lake chapter in SE Houston and 2 years later was installed as the President of the chapter, where he still serves, and also as the Region 9 Secretary of the Board, and as a board member with TPSC (APEC). David found the educational and relational aspects of IPSSA to be advantageous to his business and performance as a pool service professional, and along with developing professional relationships with other service providers he followed through with all the education that he could get from IPSSA, completing all four of the Robert Lowery IPSSA Training Manuals. He went from being a new guy calling his friends to get answers to questions while in the field to being one of the guys that others were calling to get answers in the field. In various parts of his previous career paths he has served as a teacher and instructor, and has enjoyed teaching the things he has learned in the pool service industry to those eager to learn.
David Potts
Water Testing Just Makes “Cents”
Room: 360 B
Free Session
Are chemical costs hurting your pocket? This course explores the applications of water testing and teaches you how to get the most out of your water testing experience to optimize three important things – money, time, and reputation!
- Understand how water testing contributes to your profitability, your efficiency, and your reputation
- Learn how to properly utilize and interpret your test results in order to make the best treatment decisions for your customer
- Explore the best practices for using and storing water testing products to get more accurate and reliable results
Speakers
Rachel Rutter
Taylor Water Technologies LLC
A graduate of West Virginia University’s Chemistry and Forensic Science programs, Rachel Rutter brings a knowledge of chemistry and attention to detail to the table. In 2020, Rachel began working for Taylor Water Technologies LLC as a chemist in the R&D Laboratory and became a Certified Pool Operator®. Shortly after, Rachel joined the Product Management team where she works closely with all departments to provide customers with the best products and solutions to their complex testing needs.
Rachel Rutter
Chris Golden
Taylor Water Technologies LLC
Since 1989 Chris Golden has been involved in water treatment industries. With a degree in chemical engineering from Lehigh University, Chris worked as a field consultant for industrial facilities’ water systems for over 16 years. He trained other water treaters and taught seminars on water treatment principles to coworkers and customers. Chris joined the Pool and Spa industry in 2011 and has presented at the INTERNATIONAL POOL | SPA | PATIO EXPO, several regional shows, and distributor shows.
Chris Golden
Stop Wasting Money on Marketing: How to Use the Power of Story to Grow Your Business
Room: 360 A
Free Session
If you’re like most businesses, you’re fed up with spending money on marketing that doesn’t work. If you knew what to do differently, you would—but you don’t, so you feel stuck. Meanwhile, sales are lagging, and you feel discouraged.
Here’s the good news: It doesn’t have to be that way. In this talk, Morether owner and founder Daniel Palmer—a StoryBrand Certified Guide—will share seven simple marketing principles proven to engage customers and grow businesses. You’ll walk away knowing how to capture your customers’ attention and compel them to buy.
Stop worrying about your marketing and get back to winning in the marketplace.
Learn how to write the right words to communicate your offer effectively.
Learn to position yourself to solve your customers' problems.
Learn a framework to apply to all communication from you business, e.g, marketing, sales, customer service, and more.
Learn a content framework to apply to your website, email, social media, and ad messaging.
Speaker
Daniel Palmer
Morether
After 20+ years working in nonprofits and marketing, Daniel founded Morether to fight for the underdogs (like the Cowboys, every season). Today, he's become an ally to hundreds of businesses in the retail and service industry battling for sustainable, profitable growth.
Daniel Palmer
Understanding Chlorination
Room: 360 C
Free Session
Water chemistry can be a little boring. But in this class, we will make it fun and easy to learn on what happens when chlorine meets water. Learn about CYA and chlorine effectiveness as well as how much chlorine is needed to really prevent algae. We will explore the different types and strengths of chlorine as well as importance of free chlorine. Finally, we will discuss shocking and what are you really shocking for.
- Learn how each type of chlorine reacts when added to water.
- Learn how the active chlorine (HOCI) kills and oxidizes contaminants to keep water safe, clean and clear.
- Learn the impact of cyanuric acid on chlorination.
Speaker
Ryan Rickaby
HASA/Orenda
Ryan Rickaby grew up in Southern California in the family pool business. He has over thirty years of experience in the pool industry - everything from servicing pools, working retail to chemical sales. Ryan transitioned into chemical sales while in Southern California and eventually moved to the Texas market in 2014. He loves teaching people about water chemistry and how to be successful in the pool business.
Ryan Rickaby
The State of Pool Service 2025: Insights, Priorities, and Challenges
Room: 360 D
Free Session
The 2024 State of Pool Service Industry Report was the largest pool and spa service and repair survey ever conducted, containing comprehensive survey data from over 1,700 pool service professionals, platform data aggregated from the activity of over 25,000 users, and market research from the pool service industry. In this session, we'll cover data from the new 2025 State of Pool Service Industry Report, including:
* Anonymized service pricing data from over 700,000 pools in the US
* Comprehensive survey data collected from pool service businesses
* Trends in business models, labor, and business operations
* Priorities and challenges for 2025
* Opportunities for growth in areas like technology and digital marketing
Attendees will:
Gain an understanding of the top priorities and challenges in the pool service industry
Understand trends in pool service pricing, business operations, labor, and business models
Take away actionable tips to ensure success in 2025
Speakers
Niki Acosta
Skimmer
Niki Acosta is the Director of Marketing at Skimmer and host of “Between Two Stops,” a podcast to help pool service and repair companies build great businesses. A seasoned podcast and webinar host, she’s also been a featured guest on several industry podcasts including Let’s Talk About Pools, Talking Pools, the Pool Magazine Podcast, and The Pool Guy Podcast Show. When she’s not empowering pool professionals to build great businesses, you’ll find Niki enjoying the outdoors in Austin, Texas.
Niki Acosta
Halli Sanchez
Skimmer
Halli Sanchez is a Customer Success Manager at Skimmer, a leading software company for pool service professionals. A Houston native, Halli brings over a decade of experience in the pool service industry. Prior to joining Skimmer in 2023, she owned and operated a successful pool service business in Houston, Texas. Her hands-on industry expertise and passion for helping others now drive her commitment to supporting Skimmer’s customers as they streamline operations, grow their businesses, and achieve success.
In her spare time, Halli enjoys being outdoors, traveling to national parks, and spending time with her husband and two dogs.
Halli Sanchez
The 2025 Playbook: Must-Have: Digital Marketing Tactics For Builders, Service and Retailers
Room: 360 C
Free Session
Staying abreast of the latest digital marketing game changers is crucial in today's rapidly evolving business landscape. It equips businesses with the tools and strategies they need to stay competitive, engage effectively with their target audience, and drive growth. In an era where technology is constantly reshaping the rules of engagement, understanding these innovations is not just an advantage, but a necessity for survival and success. In this session you will uncover the top technology and content-driven game-changers to increase revenue and stay front of mind.
- Discover Google and Bing’s latest Artificial intelligence rollouts and how they impact your business.
- Explore the latest platform changes from Meta, Instagram and TikTok and how to prepare.
- Get the latest text messaging and automation tactics to solidify leads in minutes and generate pool service and retail subscription income
sb c Explore the 2025 website must-haves for 24/7 sales.
Speaker
Pam Vinje
Small Screen Producer
Pam Vinje is the CEO of Small Screen Producer’s Pool Marketing Site. Pam is a long-standing frequent speaker at industry shows and is a content resource for industry publications. Since 2009 her firm has been a well-respected digital marketing presence in the pool and spa industry. Creative at the core, and a tech geek at heart, she leads an innovative digital marketing team that enables her clients to stay ahead of the curve.
Pam Vinje
Use of Liquid Admixtures in Dry Process Shotcrete (aka Gunite) to help prevent ASR and Improve Overall Product.
Room: 360 B
Free Session
With the rise in education in the pool construction industry, pool builders are demanding more complex mix designs to accomplish certain product outcomes and to help mediate ASR and other issues. Though more common with the wet mix process, the use of admixtures, especially liquid, had been difficult to use in dry process set ups, until now. With more high-tech volumetric mixers in the market, this is more achievable, but what about the more traditional mixers most companies have? We will be looking at how to dispense and integrate the liquid admixtures and what their end product is and looks like using a more traditional, dedicated volumetric gunite mixer set up many companies use and own for pool construction applications.
- to show, inform and educate the attendee the different liquid admixtures which can be used to help mediate ASR and improve the overall product that are available for dry process and how they can they can be used for shooting "gunite" for pool construction
- effective ways to dispense and integrate the liquid admixtures for proper use
- to show, inform and educate the attendee the pros and cons of liquid admixture use presented for each application, in this case the pool construction industry.
Speaker
Juanjose Armenta-Aguirre
Gunite Supply and Equipment
Juanjose is a second generation "gunite guy". He's been in the dry process shotcrete pool industry since 1999. In 2012, he co-founded Texan Gunite with his parents. In May of 2022, Juanjose also became the regional manager of the Midwest/ Central territory for Gunite Supply and Equipment. Juanjose sits on the Central Texas PHTA B.O.D. and also sits on the American Shotcrete Association B.O.D. Juanjose is also a PHTA CPO & CPI and an ACI Certified Nozzleman and an ACI Subcommittee Chair.
Juanjose Armenta-Aguirre
Pool Wisdom (An education from 45 years of mistakes)
Room: 360 B
Free Session
Wouldn't it be nice to learn some things from someone who's made mistakes over a 45 year period, some you might not have made yet but could easily, before you actually made the same ones and therefore learn from someone else's experience to avoid them? Someone who used those very mistakes to perfect his builds and business? Steve lists his 25 biggest mistakes in the pool business and what he learned from them. You will laugh at some, be astounded by some, and probably relate to most. And you'll be encouraged to share some of yours! Come with one big one to share! See you there!
- Educate pool builders and service professionals on the pitfalls in the business so that they may avoid falling into the same 'holes'. ;)
- Provide examples, using Power Point, of some actual 'mistakes' made in the field in the pool industry.
- Explore solutions to these situations, both before to avoid, and after to fix, and talk about how to implement them.
Speaker
Steve Hood
crystal clear pool co
A 45 year pool construction veteran, began by helping his father build gunite pools in Southeast Texas in the early 70's at the age of 12. Built in the Austin and Dallas-Ft. Worth areas until 1992. Moved to Nashville and has built many pools, both vinyl and gunite in that region for the past 24 years. Has numerous state and national awards for design and builds and has captured his fair share of the coveted high-end pool market. He's made every mistake in the book, which makes him an expert!!
Steve Hood
Secrets of Glass Tile Installation
Room: 360 D
Free Session
Learn from Jimmy Reed of Rock Solid Tile, one of the masters of all glass tile pools his secrets that took decades to perfect. And A to Z discussion about jobsite preparations, controlling the environment, proper material selections, layout, application techniques and the final touches that make glass tile installations a lasting thing of beauty.
Teach those who are afraid of glass failures they can be done
Teach techniques that would take years to develop
Provide Q&A that is meaningful to the audience
Speakers
Jimmy Reed
Rock Solid Tile
Curt Rapp has more than 40 years tile industry experience and is recognized within the industry for his extensive knowledge. Tile Doctor is one of the most innovative companies in the industry. 2-time winner of the internationally recognized Edison Award for Innovation.
Jimmy Reed
Curt Rapp
Tile Doctor
Curt Rapp, Founder and Chief Executive Officer Tile Doctor, has more than 40 years tile industry experience and is recognized within the industry for his extensive knowledge. Tile Doctor is one of the most innovative companies in the industry. 2-time winner of the internationally recognized Edison Award for Innovation.
Curt Rapp
Liquid Chemical Feed & Flow Measurement For Commercial Pools
Room: 360 B
Free Session
This course will focus on the installation and maintenance of chemical feed pumps for commercial pools along with properly specifying and maintaining flow meters. The students will learn about the different types of pumps and best practices when installing chemical feed pumps. They will also learn about preventative maintenance and the proper sizing of the pumps based on the pool size and application. Another topic covered will be flow meters and their proper utilization to measure GPM flow in swimming pools. The different types of flow meters and performing preventative maintenance on those meters will be covered. The learners should come away feeling more confident about the installation and service of chemical feed pumps and flow meters.
- Understand different methods of feeding liquid chemicals into commercial pools.
- Learn the proper way to size and install chemical dosing pumps
- Become educated on new safety features and technology
- Learn about different types of flow meters and the proper maintenance of them
Speaker
Colby Stratman
Blue-White Industries
My name is Colby Stratman and I am a commercial pool and aquatics industry expert with a background in smart water monitoring hardware and software, commercial aquatic water treatment and filtration equipment, and chemical feed controllers and pumps. I have been in the pool industry for 15 years and have worked for companies in the pool and spa industry in different sales and training capacities including Aquasol Controllers, Hayward, Jacuzzi, and Blue-White industries.
Colby Stratman
Owning the Backyard
Room: 360 C
Free Session
Learn how to maximize not only pool lighting, but water features, perimeter, and landscape options. Hear about cutting edge control methods that allow for individual zoning and complete control of color options. Discover syncing backyard lighting to high end automation or simply control all your zones with a singular touch point.
- Maximizing Lighting and Features Integration:
Learn effective strategies to enhance your backyard's ambiance by optimizing pool lighting, water features, perimeter lighting, and landscape options. Understand how strategic placement and types of lighting can transform your outdoor space into a visually stunning environment. - Advanced Control Methods for Customization:
Explore cutting-edge control technologies that enable precise zoning and customization of lighting colors. Discover how these methods empower homeowners to tailor lighting settings to specific areas or moods, offering unparalleled flexibility and personalization. - Integration with Automation Systems:
Delve into the seamless integration possibilities of backyard lighting with high-end automation systems. Whether syncing with existing smart home setups or implementing a new automation solution, discover how to effortlessly control all lighting zones with a single interface, simplifying management and enhancing user experience
Speaker
Thomas Hoppe
PAL Lighting
Thomas Hoppe serves as the District Sales Manager at PAL Lighting, where he focuses on the distribution and promotion of swimming pool lights. With a career spanning over years in the industry, Thomas has cultivated a reputation for his expertise in lighting solutions and his dedication to customer satisfaction. His strategic leadership has been instrumental in expanding PAL Lighting's market presence and enhancing product visibility across his district.
Thomas Hoppe
Pool Deck Finishes: How to Choose and Apply the Right Materials
Room: 360 A
Free Session
Pool decks come in many different shapes, sizes, and substrates. This presentation is designed to educate on proper procedure and products to use when coating and sealing a variety of popular pool deck substrates. Spray deck, concrete pavers, stamped concrete, natural stones, and others will be discussed. Alex Metrovich has over 30 years of knowledge, tips, and tricks for today's contractors to ensure success in today's industry.
- Surface preparation
- What kind of sealer to use with specific substrates
- How to approach new installations vs. restorations
Speaker
Alex Metrovich
Innovative Concrete Technology
With over 30 years in the decorative concrete and hardscape sealing business. Alex Metrovich has been a proven leader in the industry. His hands on technical approach makes him a great teacher. Helping contractors overcome jobsite obstacles is Alex’s biggest attribute. His strong business sense along with his practical knowledge has allowed him to be a part of many small businesses success stories.
Alex Metrovich
Modern gas-burning pool heaters; small footprint, big heat
Room: 360 D
Free Session
A crash course in all the small footprint gas heaters on the market, students will be presented with installation needs such as air, gas, and electrical. Sizing and general troubleshooting will also be covered for each of the five small-format, sealed combustion heaters.
Overcoming the fear of working on gas burning heaters
Gaining an understanding of successful heater operation
Learning similarities and differences between the various models
Speaker
Brad Duncan
Raypak
Brad Duncan entered the pool industry in 1993 as a pole pusher, eventually mastering all aspects of pool maintenance. With over two decades of hands-on experience, Brad's distinct public speaking style effortlessly conveys appliance functions and essential maintenance needs. Specializing in swimming pool heaters, Brad joined Raypak in 2017 as a product specialist and trainer. His unique approach blends field expertise with classroom instruction.
Brad Duncan
Lawsuit Protection, Tax Reduction & Estate Planning for Pool & Spa Professionals
Room: 360 B
Free Session
Is your financial house in order? Discover the tools pool & spa professionals can use to become invincible to lawsuits, save thousands in taxes, and achieve financial peace of mind. By the end of the presentation you will know how to:
1) Protect 100% of your assets from lawsuits. You will learn how to make yourself so unattractive to a plaintiff attorney that they will never pursue a lawsuit against you. 2) Save thousands of dollars each year in taxes. You will learn five tax reduction strategies most people fail to utilize, which could save you more than $10,000 each year in taxes. 3) Avoid probate and eliminate all estate taxes. You will be taken through a checklist of items that are important to every estate and business succession plan
- Structure business for lawsuit protection and prevention.
- Minimize taxes.
- Create successful estate and business succession plan.
Speaker
Larry Oxenham
American Society for Asset Protection
Larry Oxenham is one of America’s top asset protection experts, having helped thousands of professionals achieve financial peace of mind by teaching them how to properly structure their assets for lawsuit protection and tax reduction. He has authored and co-authored several articles and books on the subject including The Asset Protection Bible and How to Achieve Financial Peace of Mind through Asset Protection. His career has been credited with helping thousands of people save millions of dollars.
Larry Oxenham
PHTA: Certified Maintenance Specialist® (CMS®) (Day 1 of 3)
Room: 350 E
Paid Course
This course takes you through the PHTA Service Tech Manual and gives you what you need to know to conform to industry standards. Whether you are starting out in the pool industry, have a new business, or want to ensure all your employees are recognized as the top of their craft, this course is the perfect opportunity! When you earn the CMS certification, you also earn a name for yourself in the pool industry as a maintenance person in the know.
- Understand safety, pool circulation and filtration, pool maintenance, and water quality
- Learn about other important topics such as electrical systems, pool structures and finishes, heaters and controls, and customer service
Member Fee Price: $ 1,199.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 1,599.00
Speaker
Don Cramer
I have taught the PHTA formerly NSPF Courses for 29 years starting in 1995 with the CPO Course. Being a CST & CHTT, has provided me the pleasure to teach these courses and meet some great industry professionals along the way. Along with my 29 years of teaching, I spent 27 years in the aquatic industry operating water parks, installing commercial and residential equipment in the Midatlantic and Southeast, and being a owner operator of a small swimming pool service company. I have retired from the swimming pool service side but still do what I love most about it and that teach. I did take on a second career which is in Law Enforcement and reside with my wife and 3 children in the great State of Georgia!
Don Cramer
Watershape University C2711: Essential Major Renovations Workshop (16 Hours/1.6 CEU) (Day 1 of 2)
Room: 351 D
Paid Course
As existing pools age and ownership turns over to a new generation, major renovations have become a larger and larger part of the watershape construction market. This in-depth, two-day major renovation design course is formatted with a series of targeted lectures supporting an interactive renovation design project.
- Explore the scope and nuances of major renovation projects.
- Review images that will inspire design and illustrate key concepts.
- Develop a complete renovation project from site analysis, troubleshooting existing problems and failures, through first-draft design.
- Describe the scope of work, design, material selection, structural engineering, mechanical systems, construction considerations and project management.
Price: $ 1,600.00
Speakers
Bill Drakeley, ACI, ASA, IWI
Watershape
William Drakeley is an award-winning shotcrete technologist specializing in concrete science and construction, particularly shotcrete applications, techniques and standards, with thirty years (+) experience in shotcrete installation, waterfeature and geotech design and construction. Services include consultation and review, training and testing and expert testimony. He’s principal and founder of Drakeley Pool Company, a luxury design and build firm based in New England; and, Drakeley Industries, an international consulting firm focusing on shotcrete applications and techniques, notably providing training for the New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority underground tunneling projects. An educator and advocate for high industry standards, Bill has most recently developed and launched Watershape University (WU) with colleague David Peterson, P.E. to provide the highest quality of live instruction of business, design, engineering and construction programs to students of all levels of pool, spa, aquatics and outdoor living sectors. Bill has conducted trainings for the Colorado School of Mines, the American Society of Landscape Architects (CT), World of Concrete, GENESIS3 Aqua Show, NESPA, and others. His technical writings have been widely published in trade magazines and e- publications.
Bill Drakeley, ACI, ASA, IWI
Ben Lasseter, IWI
Design Ecology Austin
As Partner and Director of Construction, Benjamin is responsible for bringing Design Ecology’s designs to life. He oversees all construction projects from planning to completion while managing a skilled team of craftsmen to provide unparalleled attention to detail. After earning his B.S. in Horticulture at Texas A&M Benjamin gained valuable experience working as Assistant Superintendent on one of the nation’s top resort golf courses. He moved on to manage the construction division of a landscape architecture firm for 4 years where he built luxury estate landscapes and pools. Benjamin opened his own landscape design and construction company in early 2009 & joined with Scott Cummings, RLA, ASLA and CB in 2010 to form Design Ecology.
Ben Lasseter, IWI
Watershape University C2611: Essential Tile Workshop (16 hours/1.6 CEU) (Day 1 of 2)
Room: 351 E
Paid Course
Custom tile installations come with high expectations and ofen extravagant client investments, making absolute perfection the only acceptable outcome. Clearing that high bar requires a carefully controlled work environment, and complete command of proven installation techniquest. This comprehensive presentation offers a framework for ensuring artisan execution and superior results in all environmental conditions. Taught by Luke and Amy Denny, the industry's leading and most sought-after tileinstallation artisans, students will go on a deep and detailed dive into the installation process. From how to properly tent and protect tile-installation environements, to the use of setting materials, understanding tile charteristics, and assemploy a skilled labor force that is prepared to work at the highest level through seasonal and multi-seasonal projects, this course defines the roadmap to tileinstallation success and professional prowess.
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Tile Industry Standard for tile installations in submerged environments, TCNA P-602
- Identify best practices for designing glass tile within poolenvironments
- Explore methods, tips, tools for preparing a shell to receive a mosaic full-tile layout, in-class and hands-on
- Review hands-on techniques for mortar rendering and installation
Price: $ 1,600.00
Speakers
Luke Denny
Amy Denny
Power Up Advance You Women’s Workshop – Discover Your Strengths and Own them!
Room: 360 A
Paid Course
We are typically taught to focus on our weaknesses -- to fix them. But freedom, power, and confidence occurs when we focus on honing our core strengths. Using a proven 5-point personality strength assessment, you will clearly identify your top 5 core strengths, and learn how to harness them for life-changing outcomes in all areas of your life. Once your strengths are identified, you will learn to keep you at the top of your game, by discovering tools to help overcome imposter syndrome and limiting beliefs. These negative mindsets often arise when trying to move forward into new opportunities. This workshop will help you step into 2025 with confidence whether you want to become more empowered in your current position or step into a new opportunity that awaits.
- Discover and Own Your Core Strengths: Understand your top talents as we take a personalized assessment test and leverage it to enhance your life.
- Embrace your Toolbelt: Discover tools to help you combat self-doubt and limiting beliefs as you reach your goals in new found confidence.
- Aim Your Strengths at Success: Learn how to work your personal roadmap and watch your potential unfold
- Build Accountability: Maximize your success after the workshop with the accompanying peer buddy and Zoom group accountability check-ins
Price: $ 229.00
Speaker
Pam Vinje
Small Screen Producer
Pam Vinje is the CEO of Small Screen Producer’s Pool Marketing Site. Pam is a long-standing frequent speaker at industry shows and is a content resource for industry publications. Since 2009 her firm has been a well-respected digital marketing presence in the pool and spa industry. Creative at the core, and a tech geek at heart, she leads an innovative digital marketing team that enables her clients to stay ahead of the curve.
Pam Vinje
IPSSA Equipment Certification
Room: 360 B
Paid Course
This course will cover volume formulas and proper flow and turnover rates. We will cover proper sizing and mating of pool equipment for various conditions. The course will also cover the design, operation, theory, and maintenance of most common types of filters, pumps, heaters, and pool accessories.
Price: $ 75.00
Speakers
NPC Start-up Technician Certification Class
Room: 360 C
Paid Course
This is an 8-hour program that will certify an individual in the National Plasterers Council industry method of properly starting up the water chemistry and care of a newly surfaced swimming pool and/or spa. The course will cover six primary areas:
• Basics of Plastering Materials & Applications
• Basics of Pool Water Chemistry
• Review of Various Test Kits & Testing Methods
• General Start-up Procedures & Timeline
• Understanding the Saturation Index
• Identification of Common Problems & Solutions
• The course will conclude with a sixty (60) minute written test.
• Learn the correct way to properly start up a swimming pool using the NPC’s method.
• Earn a new certification to promote your company and increase your expertise.
• Learn about potential problems during the start-up process and how to avoid them.
• Gain a marketable and profitable competitive edge.
Price: $ 450.00
Speaker
Jana Auringer
National Plasterers Council
A 35+ year veteran of the swimming pool industry, Jana has owned a swimming pool plaster company, a pool service company, and a consulting service in which she has learned a vast amount of knowledge of swimming pool plaster science and problems. She is currently Regional Quality Assurance Manager at Pebble Technology International. She has promoted the industry through her affiliations with the National Plasterers Council on the Board of Directors and several active committees, as well as the
Jana Auringer
Power Up Advance You Women’s Workshop- 2025 SMART Goal Setting Workshop.
Room: 360 A
Paid Course
It’s time to Power Up and Advance You and your company in 2025. Using the SMART goal-setting framework, you learn how to create actionable plans that you can immediately put into place. We’ll focus on sales and marketing, customer service, staffing, communication and operational challenges. We'll end the day by setting up personal development and work-life balance goals. If you are a business owner or run a department, this workshop is for you!
- Set practical and actionable goals for sales and marketing, operations, and staffing concerns to help you save money and grow sales.
- Get equipped with insights and strategies to overcome challenges. Whether it's setting clear goals, increasing sales, improving your communication skills, or building collaborative relationships, you'll gain practical solutions to excel in your role.
- Discover communication techniques that you can immediately put into practice, enhancing your management effectiveness and thereby growing your company’s bottom line.
- Make a personal self-improvement plan to prioritize your well-being and develop work life balance goals that you can commit to for long-term success.
Plus, meet like-minded industry women and we’ll celebrate with a glass of wine after it's all said and done. So sign up today and invest in YOU!
Price: $ 249.00
Speaker
Pam Vinje
Small Screen Producer
Pam Vinje is the CEO of Small Screen Producer’s Pool Marketing Site. Pam is a long-standing frequent speaker at industry shows and is a content resource for industry publications. Since 2009 her firm has been a well-respected digital marketing presence in the pool and spa industry. Creative at the core, and a tech geek at heart, she leads an innovative digital marketing team that enables her clients to stay ahead of the curve.
Pam Vinje
PHTA: Certified Maintenance Specialist® (CMS®) (Day 3 of 3)
Room: 350 E
Paid Course
This course takes you through the PHTA Service Tech Manual and gives you what you need to know to conform to industry standards. Whether you are starting out in the pool industry, have a new business, or want to ensure all your employees are recognized as the top of their craft, this course is the perfect opportunity! When you earn the CMS certification, you also earn a name for yourself in the pool industry as a maintenance person in the know.
- Understand safety, pool circulation and filtration, pool maintenance, and water quality
- Learn about other important topics such as electrical systems, pool structures and finishes, heaters and controls, and customer service
Member Fee Price: $ 1,199.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 1,599.00
Speaker
Don Cramer
I have taught the PHTA formerly NSPF Courses for 29 years starting in 1995 with the CPO Course. Being a CST & CHTT, has provided me the pleasure to teach these courses and meet some great industry professionals along the way. Along with my 29 years of teaching, I spent 27 years in the aquatic industry operating water parks, installing commercial and residential equipment in the Midatlantic and Southeast, and being a owner operator of a small swimming pool service company. I have retired from the swimming pool service side but still do what I love most about it and that teach. I did take on a second career which is in Law Enforcement and reside with my wife and 3 children in the great State of Georgia!
Don Cramer
Watershape University C2711: Essential Major Renovations Workshop (16 Hours/1.6 CEU) (Day 2 of 2)
Room: 351 D
Paid Course
As existing pools age and ownership turns over to a new generation, major renovations have become a larger and larger part of the watershape construction market. This in-depth, two-day major renovation design course is formatted with a series of targeted lectures supporting an interactive renovation design project.
- Explore the scope and nuances of major renovation projects.
- Review images that will inspire design and illustrate key concepts.
- Develop a complete renovation project from site analysis, troubleshooting existing problems and failures, through first-draft design.
- Describe the scope of work, design, material selection, structural engineering, mechanical systems, construction considerations and project management.
Price: $ 1,600.00
Speakers
Bill Drakeley, ACI, ASA, IWI
Watershape
William Drakeley is an award-winning shotcrete technologist specializing in concrete science and construction, particularly shotcrete applications, techniques and standards, with thirty years (+) experience in shotcrete installation, waterfeature and geotech design and construction. Services include consultation and review, training and testing and expert testimony. He’s principal and founder of Drakeley Pool Company, a luxury design and build firm based in New England; and, Drakeley Industries, an international consulting firm focusing on shotcrete applications and techniques, notably providing training for the New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority underground tunneling projects. An educator and advocate for high industry standards, Bill has most recently developed and launched Watershape University (WU) with colleague David Peterson, P.E. to provide the highest quality of live instruction of business, design, engineering and construction programs to students of all levels of pool, spa, aquatics and outdoor living sectors. Bill has conducted trainings for the Colorado School of Mines, the American Society of Landscape Architects (CT), World of Concrete, GENESIS3 Aqua Show, NESPA, and others. His technical writings have been widely published in trade magazines and e- publications.
Bill Drakeley, ACI, ASA, IWI
Ben Lasseter, IWI
Design Ecology Austin
As Partner and Director of Construction, Benjamin is responsible for bringing Design Ecology’s designs to life. He oversees all construction projects from planning to completion while managing a skilled team of craftsmen to provide unparalleled attention to detail. After earning his B.S. in Horticulture at Texas A&M Benjamin gained valuable experience working as Assistant Superintendent on one of the nation’s top resort golf courses. He moved on to manage the construction division of a landscape architecture firm for 4 years where he built luxury estate landscapes and pools. Benjamin opened his own landscape design and construction company in early 2009 & joined with Scott Cummings, RLA, ASLA and CB in 2010 to form Design Ecology.
Ben Lasseter, IWI
Watershape University C2611: Essential Tile Workshop (16 hours/1.6 CEU) (Day 2 of 2)
Room: 351 E
Paid Course
Custom tile installations come with high expectations and ofen extravagant client investments, making absolute perfection the only acceptable outcome. Clearing that high bar requires a carefully controlled work environment, and complete command of proven installation techniquest. This comprehensive presentation offers a framework for ensuring artisan execution and superior results in all environmental conditions. Taught by Luke and Amy Denny, the industry's leading and most sought-after tileinstallation artisans, students will go on a deep and detailed dive into the installation process. From how to properly tent and protect tile-installation environements, to the use of setting materials, understanding tile charteristics, and assemploy a skilled labor force that is prepared to work at the highest level through seasonal and multi-seasonal projects, this course defines the roadmap to tileinstallation success and professional prowess.
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Tile Industry Standard for tile installations in submerged environments, TCNA P-602
- Identify best practices for designing glass tile within poolenvironments
- Explore methods, tips, tools for preparing a shell to receive a mosaic full-tile layout, in-class and hands-on
- Review hands-on techniques for mortar rendering and installation
Price: $ 1,600.00
Speakers
Luke Denny
Amy Denny
GENESIS® D211: Elements of Design (Day 2 of 2)
Room: 350 D
Paid Course
This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of good design and will teach you how to lay out the different improvements in your projects (e.g. pool, spa, patio, etc.). We will break the fundamentals down into two categories: the Elements of Design and the Principles of Design. Once you have a good grasp of the fundamentals, you will learn how to apply them. We will start with short practice exercises and build up to a final project: creating a master plan that includes a pool and spa.
This is a required course to become a Certified Expert Pool Builder & Design Professional.
- Discuss fundamental Elements (e.g., line, color, and form) and Principles (e.g., unity, balance, and scale) of design.
- Define perceptual skills and a better understanding of spatial organization and spatial relationships.
- Use these concepts to design beautiful spaces that connect with the surrounding environment.
- Use your communication skills to accurately portray your design intent to the client.
Member Fee Price: $ 1,690.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 2,190.00
Speaker
Kate Wiseman, MLA
Wiseman is the principal landscape designer at Sage Outdoor Designs, a firm specializing in beautiful residential landscapes in Southern California. Her designs have been widely published both locally and nationally, and she has been recognized in San Diego Home and Garden Lifestyles “Gardens of the Year” contest four times, including the grand-prize winning design in 2007.
Kate Wiseman, MLA
Certified Pool Operator – CPO Certification (Day 2 of 2)
Room: 360 E
Paid Course
CPO certification provides individuals with the knowledge, techniques, and skills required for proper pool operations.
Available in-person
Course materials are up-to-date with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC)
Content is supported and researched by actual scientists that are active and hands-on in the aquatic industry!
Content covers both commercial and residential pools
Students receive one-on-one support from your Instructor
PHTA Customer Service Support is available by phone, email, or web chat
Certification leads to education growth opportunities
Course is IACET, Florida CILB, California Department of Public Health, and Environmental Health Association approved
Certification is valid for 5 years
You will learn how to:
Reduce risks in and around the water
Prevent drowning, recreational water illness, suction entrapment, evisceration, diving accidents, electrocutions, chemical hazards, and slips and falls
Address regulatory guidelines
Maintain disinfection and water balance
Manage water problems
Perform troubleshooting, chemical testing, and record keeping
Manage chemical feed
Utilize automation and technology
Price: $ 563.00
Speaker
Heather Linton
Integrity Consultants, LLC
From business strategies to best practices, Heather Linton has over fifteen years of developing and perfecting tools to succeed in our industry. Her business knowledge comes from real-world experience, rather than the standard “book” learning. Over the last 15 years, she has been honored to walk alongside people who have become true friends while we work together to achieve our business goals and has learned from top individuals in our industry.
Heather Linton
OSHA 10 in General Industry for Pool Pros (Day 1 of 2)
Room: 350 F
Paid Course
This OSHA 10-hour training program is specific to aquatic professionals and the swimming pool industry. It teaches basic safety and health information to entry-level workers in general industry. The difference is that this is the first OSHA 10 training program that is geared to the pool industry. Each topic is discussed with examples that make it relevant to those in this industry. It is part of the OSHA Outreach Training Program, which explains serious workplace hazards, workers’ rights, employer responsibilities and how to file an OSHA complaint. This program will help employees and employers to identify and reduce safety and health hazards in their workplace.
This is not just any class – it is a tailored experience specifically for you, the pool professionals. You will not find anything this specialized at other shows.
For Employees:
- Gain a deeper understanding of workplace hazards.
- Equip yourself with knowledge on how
This course is intended to enable attendee to identify OSHA regulatory requirements for general industry for pool pros.
Gain a working knowledge of OSHA's general industry standards as it relates to the pool industry workers.
Recognize current trends in general safety and understand the OSHA inspection process as it relates to the pool industry.
Price: $ 300.00
Speaker
Lauren Broom
Space Coast Pool School, LLC
Lauren Broom is an Authorized Certified Pool Operator Course (CPO)® Instructor through the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. She is the owner of Space Coast Pool School, LLC for the past 11 years. She attended the University of Central Florida where she received her Bachelors in Biology. She also hold current designation as a Registered Sanitarian (certification in public health). She has 17 years experience in the inspection of commercial pools in Florida as a commercial public pool inspector from the
Lauren Broom
OSHA 10 in General Industry for Pool Pros (Day 2 of 2)
Room: 350 F
Paid Course
This OSHA 10-hour training program is specific to aquatic professionals and the swimming pool industry. It teaches basic safety and health information to entry-level workers in general industry. The difference is that this is the first OSHA 10 training program that is geared to the pool industry. Each topic is discussed with examples that make it relevant to those in this industry. It is part of the OSHA Outreach Training Program, which explains serious workplace hazards, workers’ rights, employer responsibilities and how to file an OSHA complaint. This program will help employees and employers to identify and reduce safety and health hazards in their workplace.
This is not just any class – it is a tailored experience specifically for you, the pool professionals. You will not find anything this specialized at other shows.
For Employees:
- Gain a deeper understanding of workplace hazards.
- Equip yourself with knowledge on how
This course is intended to enable attendee to identify OSHA regulatory requirements for general industry for pool pros.
Gain a working knowledge of OSHA's general industry standards as it relates to the pool industry workers.
Recognize current trends in general safety and understand the OSHA inspection process as it relates to the pool industry.
Price: $ 300.00
Speaker
Lauren Broom
Space Coast Pool School, LLC
Lauren Broom is an Authorized Certified Pool Operator Course (CPO)® Instructor through the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. She is the owner of Space Coast Pool School, LLC for the past 11 years. She attended the University of Central Florida where she received her Bachelors in Biology. She also hold current designation as a Registered Sanitarian (certification in public health). She has 17 years experience in the inspection of commercial pools in Florida as a commercial public pool inspector from the
Lauren Broom
GENESIS® C201: Construction School: Concrete Pools. (Day 2 of 3)
Room: 340 AB
Paid Course
This comprehensive concrete construction school is one of two programs that satisfies the education requirement to sit for the Certified Builder Professional (CBP) exam. Attendees spend three days with a team of expert faculty, learning all of the necessary disciplines for building a structurally sound water vessel. Topics covered include site analysis, introductory fluid engineering, geotechnical and structural engineering that includes a review of difficult sites, shotcrete, waterproofing, tile, interior finishes, coping, and concrete decking. This program is designed to move each student through all phases of concrete pool construction in great detail, unlike anything else offered in the industry. Attendees have the opportunity to learn from top experts in their field, ask questions, and begin a relationship with the faculty that doesn't end when the class is over. GENESIS® courses deliver the highest quality education in the industry.
This is a required course to become a Certified Builder Professional.
- Discuss Basic Pool Plumbing, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Electrical Engineering
- Define Layout, Forming & Excavation, Infrastructure Coordination, Shotcrete, Waterproofing
- List Basic Tile & Coping, Concrete Decking, Pre-Plaster Preparation, Cementitious Pool Finishes
- Discuss Startup, Punch List & Project Closeout, Project Profile
Member Fee Price: $ 2,090.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 2,590.00
Speakers
Terry Brannon, P.E
Genesis Speaker
Terry Brannon, P.E., GENESIS Engineering Faculty Chair: Terry Brannon began his career in public works, beginning with the cities of Irving and Tyler in Texas before founding The Brannon Corporation. He continues to specialize in public works projects, but the firm has carved out an aquatic niche using their expertise in water conveyance and treatment and structural design. Brannon is registered in 23 states as a licensed professional engineer. Now in semi-retirement from the engineering consulting business—50 years total in engineering and 40 years in aquatics—Brannon keeps himself busy sharing his experiences by writing and training engineers and contractors in the design and construction of aquatic facilities from public fountains, to splash pads, water parks, competition venues, lakes and streams, and private pools. He continues as a consultant to various construction management companies, hotels and resorts, municipalities, and branches of the U.S. Department of Defense.
Terry Brannon, P.E
Greg Andrews
Genesis
Greg Andrews is a nationally renowned and award-winning tile contractor and glass mosaic expert. Having completed some of the most intricate and detail-oriented pools in the country, he’s well known for his mastery of pool tile installations. While still active in installations, Greg’s focus in the past decade has gradually turned towards industry involvement in the form of teaching, lecturing, training, and consulting. He also manages a Pool Tile Technical Committee through National Tile and Stone Authority, a consulting firm that he co-founded. This level of involvement keeps Greg connected with top tiered tile installers and product manufacturers throughout the country, and up-to-date with the latest in product technology and installation techniques.
Greg Andrews
Randy Dukes
Genesis
Randy Dukes is regarded as one of the foremost authorities in the pool plaster industry relating to deterioration, discoloration, and staining phenomena that are commonly associated with cement-based pool coatings. He has served as a moderator and keynote speaker for many of the National Plasterers Conventions starting in 1992 and has instructed courses on “The Science of Cementitious Pool Finishes, Startups, and Maintenance.” Dukes has spent a considerable amount of time traveling throughout the U.S. researching and identifying pool surface problems and their relationship to application, water chemistry, and chemical abuse. Author of Pool Surfaces, Problems, and Solutions.
Randy Dukes
GENESIS® C201: Construction School: Concrete Pools. (Day 3 of 3)
Room: 340 AB
Paid Course
This comprehensive concrete construction school is one of two programs that satisfies the education requirement to sit for the Certified Builder Professional (CBP) exam. Attendees spend three days with a team of expert faculty, learning all of the necessary disciplines for building a structurally sound water vessel. Topics covered include site analysis, introductory fluid engineering, geotechnical and structural engineering that includes a review of difficult sites, shotcrete, waterproofing, tile, interior finishes, coping, and concrete decking. This program is designed to move each student through all phases of concrete pool construction in great detail, unlike anything else offered in the industry. Attendees have the opportunity to learn from top experts in their field, ask questions, and begin a relationship with the faculty that doesn't end when the class is over. GENESIS® courses deliver the highest quality education in the industry.
This is a required course to become a Certified Builder Professional.
- Discuss Basic Pool Plumbing, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Electrical Engineering
- Define Layout, Forming & Excavation, Infrastructure Coordination, Shotcrete, Waterproofing
- List Basic Tile & Coping, Concrete Decking, Pre-Plaster Preparation, Cementitious Pool Finishes
- Discuss Startup, Punch List & Project Closeout, Project Profile
Member Fee Price: $ 2,090.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 2,590.00
Speakers
Terry Brannon, P.E
Genesis Speaker
Terry Brannon, P.E., GENESIS Engineering Faculty Chair: Terry Brannon began his career in public works, beginning with the cities of Irving and Tyler in Texas before founding The Brannon Corporation. He continues to specialize in public works projects, but the firm has carved out an aquatic niche using their expertise in water conveyance and treatment and structural design. Brannon is registered in 23 states as a licensed professional engineer. Now in semi-retirement from the engineering consulting business—50 years total in engineering and 40 years in aquatics—Brannon keeps himself busy sharing his experiences by writing and training engineers and contractors in the design and construction of aquatic facilities from public fountains, to splash pads, water parks, competition venues, lakes and streams, and private pools. He continues as a consultant to various construction management companies, hotels and resorts, municipalities, and branches of the U.S. Department of Defense.
Terry Brannon, P.E
Greg Andrews
Genesis
Greg Andrews is a nationally renowned and award-winning tile contractor and glass mosaic expert. Having completed some of the most intricate and detail-oriented pools in the country, he’s well known for his mastery of pool tile installations. While still active in installations, Greg’s focus in the past decade has gradually turned towards industry involvement in the form of teaching, lecturing, training, and consulting. He also manages a Pool Tile Technical Committee through National Tile and Stone Authority, a consulting firm that he co-founded. This level of involvement keeps Greg connected with top tiered tile installers and product manufacturers throughout the country, and up-to-date with the latest in product technology and installation techniques.
Greg Andrews
Randy Dukes
Genesis
Randy Dukes is regarded as one of the foremost authorities in the pool plaster industry relating to deterioration, discoloration, and staining phenomena that are commonly associated with cement-based pool coatings. He has served as a moderator and keynote speaker for many of the National Plasterers Conventions starting in 1992 and has instructed courses on “The Science of Cementitious Pool Finishes, Startups, and Maintenance.” Dukes has spent a considerable amount of time traveling throughout the U.S. researching and identifying pool surface problems and their relationship to application, water chemistry, and chemical abuse. Author of Pool Surfaces, Problems, and Solutions.
Randy Dukes
PHTA: Certified Maintenance Specialist® (CMS®) (Day 2 of 3)
Room: 350 E
Paid Course
This course takes you through the PHTA Service Tech Manual and gives you what you need to know to conform to industry standards. Whether you are starting out in the pool industry, have a new business, or want to ensure all your employees are recognized as the top of their craft, this course is the perfect opportunity! When you earn the CMS certification, you also earn a name for yourself in the pool industry as a maintenance person in the know.
- Understand safety, pool circulation and filtration, pool maintenance, and water quality
- Learn about other important topics such as electrical systems, pool structures and finishes, heaters and controls, and customer service
Member Fee Price: $ 1,199.00
Nonmember Fee Price: $ 1,599.00
Speaker
Don Cramer
I have taught the PHTA formerly NSPF Courses for 29 years starting in 1995 with the CPO Course. Being a CST & CHTT, has provided me the pleasure to teach these courses and meet some great industry professionals along the way. Along with my 29 years of teaching, I spent 27 years in the aquatic industry operating water parks, installing commercial and residential equipment in the Midatlantic and Southeast, and being a owner operator of a small swimming pool service company. I have retired from the swimming pool service side but still do what I love most about it and that teach. I did take on a second career which is in Law Enforcement and reside with my wife and 3 children in the great State of Georgia!