pool nation Conference
Unleash your potential with cutting-edge business education, technical classes, hands-on service training, and exclusive retail insights tailored for the pool industry. Join us where professionals meet possibilities.
Heritage Pool Pro Appreciation & Business Summit
King
Dr. Training
De Jesus
Sr.Director HR
Lawrence
VP Sales Biolab
About The Conference
Welcome to the Pool Nation Conference 2024
Created by industry insiders for industry insiders, this conference is designed to address a gap long felt in our industry—the need for a business-centric educational platform tailored exclusively for pool professionals
Business Classes
Financials, Hiring, Coaching , accountability and more.
Retail Classes
Learn merchandising in a retail store setup and more
Industry Classes
Water Chemistry, Electricity 101, how to kill algae and more
Hands-On Classes
Pumps, Automation, Heaters, plubing, Heat Pumps and more
Pool Nation
Event Organizer (EO)
Conference Details
Pool Nation Conference at the PSP Expo
The impact of the Pool Nation Conference extends beyond the days of the event. It aims to create a ripple effect—inspiring improvement, encouraging professional standards, and enhancing business practices across the industry.
Business
While technical skills are crucial, the true differentiator between a good company and a great one lies in business acumen. The Pool Nation Conference was born out of a desire to elevate the business side of pool services, offering attendees unparalleled insights into management, growth strategies, customer relations, and more.
- Keynote Speeches: Hear from industry leaders who have transformed their businesses through innovative strategies.
- Business Workshops: Interactive sessions focusing on financial management, marketing, customer service, and operational efficiency.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other business owners, potential mentors, and industry veterans in curated networking events designed to foster partnerships and growth.
Industry Classes & Hands-On
The conference recognizes that true expertise in pool service extends beyond management—it’s about mastering the craft. The Pool Nation Conference aims to fortify this technical foundation, offering practical, real-world applications and techniques.
What to Expect in Industry and Hands-On Classes
- Industry Classes: Dive into sessions led by technical experts covering the latest industry standards, advanced water chemistry, energy-efficient technologies, and troubleshooting complex pool systems. These classes are designed to update and refine your technical knowledge, keeping you at the forefront of industry developments.
- Hands-On Workshops: Engage in interactive, on-the-ground training with the latest tools and equipment. Workshops include live demonstrations and practical sessions on repairs, installations, and maintenance, ensuring you can apply what you’ve learned immediately.
Retail
Why Focus on Retail?
In a competitive market, the appearance, functionality, and customer engagement strategies of your retail space can significantly influence customer loyalty and sales. The Pool Nation Conference is committed to transforming how pool products are sold by enhancing the retail experience through innovative merchandising, effective customer acquisition tactics, and targeted marketing.
What to Expect in Retail-Focused Classes
- Merchandising Mastery: Learn the art and science of store layout and product presentation in a detailed class that transforms your retail space into a customer magnet. Discover how strategic placement, lighting, and design can increase product visibility and sales.
- Customer Acquisition Techniques: Explore proven strategies to attract and retain customers. This class covers everything from leveraging local SEO and social media marketing to implementing loyalty programs and community engagement.
- Marketing Innovations: Dive into the latest marketing trends tailored specifically for the pool industry. Learn how to craft compelling campaigns that resonate with your target audience, using both digital and traditional media.
Sponsors
Our Partners & Sponsors
Thank you to our visionary partners for your unwavering support and collaboration. Together, we are shaping a brighter future!
Looking for Exhibiting or Sponsorship Opportunities
Join the Conference
Why You Should Join Our Conference?
The Pool Nation Conference is an unparalleled opportunity for pool service professionals to elevate their business acumen through specialized education, expert insights, and exclusive networking opportunities. Attendees will gain access to the latest industry innovations and business strategies, setting them apart in a competitive market. By investing in this conference, professionals will not only enhance their own skills and operations but also contribute to raising standards across the entire pool service industry.
Specialized Business Education
Unlike other industry conferences, the Pool Nation Conference zeroes in on the business side of the pool industry. It offers workshops and seminars tailored to enhance business management, from scaling to effective marketing strategies to financial management and customer service excellence.
A Focus on Quality and Standards:
By promoting higher standards and professionalism in the industry, the conference helps participants not only improve their own businesses but also contribute to elevating the overall quality and perception of the pool service industry.
Motivation & Inspiration
Being surrounded by ambitious and driven industry professionals can reignite your passion for your business and inspire you to push boundaries and achieve new heights.
Professional Growth & Development
The conference provides a platform to enhance your professional skills and knowledge, making you and your team more competent and confident in handling business challenges.
Conference Schedule
Schedules Event & Conference
Day 1
- 09 November 2024
- Dallas, TX 75202
01
Terry Arko
Product Training & Content Manager - HASA
Elevating Pool Care: The Comprehensive Responsibilities of a Modern Pool Pro
The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in modern pool care.
- 8:30 - 10:00am
- Conference Hall C-140
02
Terry Arko
Product Training & Content Manager - HASA
Precision in Pool Chemistry: Proper Testing, Dosing & Targeted Pool Care
The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in precise pool chemistry management.
- 10:15 - 11:45am
- Conference Hall C-140
03
Understanding Chemicals: Choosing the Right Chemicals for Every Pool
Alicia Stephens
Director of Training & Education Biolab
From initial setup to ongoing maintenance, participants will be guided through each process in a structured, step-by-step format.
- 12:45 - 1:45pm
- Conference Hall - C140
04
Alicia Stephens
Director of Training & Education Biolab
Proactive Pool Care vs Reactive: Utilizing Specialty Chemicals & Minerals to Elevate your Game
Core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in using specialty chemicals and minerals for pool care from initial start up to ongoing maintenance.
- 2:00 - 3:00pm
- Conference Hall - C140
05
Casey, Steve, Danielle
Training and Education
The Importance of Safety: Saving Lives and Limiting Liability
This workshop was meticulously designed to prioritize safety in pool management. This immersive, course places participants in real-world scenarios, ensuring they grasp the critical importance of safety in every aspect of pool operation.
- 3:15 - 4:45pm
- Conference Hall - C140
Day 2
- 10 November 2024
- Dallas, TX 75202
06
Alicia Stephens
Director of Training & Education Biolab
The Science of Algae: Identifying, Preventing, and Eliminating Pool Algae
- 9:00 - 10:00am
- Conference Hall - C140
This course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the target chemistry, range chemistry and the LSI and each one of its applications in pool management, moving beyond traditional chemistry to more stable and manageable water conditions.
07
Advanced Water Chemistry: Target vs Range and Understanding LSI
Terry Arko
Product Training & Content Manager - HASA
This course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the target chemistry, range chemistry and the LSI and each one of its applications in pool management, moving beyond traditional chemistry to more stable and manageable water conditions.
- 10:15 - 11:45am
- Conference Hall - C140
08
Steve Barnes
Director of Science and Compliance - AquaStar
Advanced Sanitizers: Understanding Ozone, UV, and AOP for you & your Customers Benefit
This course is designed to equip pool professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to understand advanced sanitization systems such as ozone, UV, and AOP and how they can enhance the customers pool experience.
- 12:45 - 1:45pm
- Conference Hall - C140
09
Chris Marcano
Executive Director, National Plasterers Council
New Plaster Startups: Do’s and Don’ts
This course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the crucial aspects involved in new plaster startups. It will cover the necessary procedures, best practices, and common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring that attendees can perform startups effectively and confidently.
- 2:00 - 3:30pm
- Conference Hall C-140
10
Effective Acid Washing Procedures, Pitfalls and Precautions
Chris Marcano
Executive Director, National Plasterers Council
This comprehensive course is designed to equip pool and spa professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively perform acid washing. Participants will learn about the purpose and process of acid washing, the situations in which it is beneficial, and the limitations of this technique. The course will cover essential safety measures, assessment techniques, and practical instructions for carrying out an acid wash.
- 3:45 - 4:45pm
- Conference Hall - C-140
Day 3
- 11 November 2024
- Dallas, TX 75202
11
Terry Arko
Product Training & Content Manager - HASA
The Impact of Water Balance: Balancing Chemistry to Protect Your Equipment
This course is designed for pool service professionals who aim to preserve and protect pool equipment and vessels while extending their service life through proper water chemistry management.
- 9:00 - 10:00am
- Conference Hall - C-140
12
Chris Marcano
NPC
Identifying and Addressing New Plaster Issues
This comprehensive course is designed to equip pool professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, prevent, and correct common issues associated with new pool plastering. Attendees will learn about the different types of plaster issues, their causes, and effective solutions. Additionally, the course will cover best practices for engaging professionally with builders, clients, and plaster companies to address and resolve problems.
- 10:15 - 11:45am
- Conference Hall - C-140
13
Lauren Broom
Space Coast Pool School
Chemical Awareness and Safety: Ensuring Compliance and Protection
This course is ideal for pool professionals, including employees and employers, who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in handling hazardous materials safely and compliantly. No prior experience is required, as our expert instructors will provide tailored guidance to suit all levels of expertise.
- 12:45 - 2:15pm
- Conference Hall - C-140
14
Alicia Stephens
Director of Training & Education
Mastering Salt Pools: Comprehensive Care & Maintenance
Unlock the secrets of saltwater pool systems with our comprehensive course, “Mastering Salt Pools: Comprehensive Care and Maintenance.” Designed for pool professionals looking to expand their expertise, this course covers everything from the fundamentals of saltwater pool care to advanced maintenance techniques and profitability strategies.
- 2:30 - 3:30pm
- Conference Hall - C-140
Day 1
- 09 November 2024
- Dallas, TX
01
Hands-On Pump Installation, Programming and Repairs
Steve, Bryan, Todd
AquaStar
Dive into the practical realm of pool maintenance with our hands-on Pool Pump Installation, Programming, and Repair Workshop with AquaStar.
- 8:00 - 10:00am
- Conference Hall - C140
02
Ken Kauffman
Training Manager
Hands-On Pool Heater Installation and Repair Workshop 101
Dive into the practical world of pool heater maintenance. Our course emphasizes an immersive, hands-on approach that allows participants to experience real-world scenarios.
- 10:15 - 12:15pm
- Conference Hall - C142
03
Advanced Pool Heater Troubleshooting and Repair Workshop 201
Brad Duncan
National Trainer
This workshop is an extensive hands-on practice, allowing participants to engage with real-world scenarios and gain invaluable experience. You’ll learn to diagnose and repair a variety of common and uncommon problems, ensuring efficient and effective solutions in your daily work.
- 1:15 - 3:15pm
- Conference Hall - C147 & C154
04
Automamtion Installation and Programing
David Jones
The Attendant
From the initial wiring through eventual configuration for optimal performance, participants will be guided through each process in a structured, step-by-step format.
- 3:30 - 5:30pm
- Conference Hall - C146
05
Pool Light Installation
Morgan Bruce
Product Marketing Manager
Master the art of pool lighting! Our hands-on PAL Lighting classes guide you through installation, wiring, and troubleshooting to elevate your lighting skills
- 8:00 - 10:00am
- Conference Hall - C155
Day 2
- 10 November 2024
- Dallas, TX
06
TBA
Director of Training
Chemical Automation & Programming
The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core mechanics, technical components, installation and safety standards involved in pool chemical automation
- 10:15 - 12:15pm
- Conference Hall - C148
07
Coming Soon
TBA
Coming Soon
Day 3
- 11 November 2024
- Dallas, TX
09
Bonus Class - Plumbing the Pad
David, Brad, Steve
AquaStar, Raypak & The Attendant
10
Effective Strategies for Finding and Fixing Leaks
Dareen Merlob
CEO Founder
This course offers comprehensive training on the causes, detection, and repair of leaks in water systems, with a specific emphasis on swimming pools and related structures. Participants will learn about modern leak detection technologies, understand the common causes of leaks, and master effective repair techniques.
- 1:30 - 3:30pm
- Conference Hall - C156
Day 1
- 09 November 2024
- Dallas, TX
01
Building a Team of Teams
Doreen King
Director of Training
Learn how to build a Dynamic team, and thrive in complex environments. Learn to breakthroughs required to building a team culture.
- 8:30 - 10:00am
- Conference Hall - C141
02
Interviewing and Hiring: Using the Behavior-Based Method
Leanne Nix
Sr. Director of HR
The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in behavior-based interviewing and hiring.
- 10:15 - 11:45am
- Conference Hall - C141
03
Coaching for Performance
Leanne De Jesus
Sr. Director of HR
The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in performance coaching.
- 12:45 - 2:15pm
- Conference Hall - C141
04
Getting Results Through Accountability
Leanne Nix
Sr. Director of HR
Drive success in your team with our comprehensive “Getting Results Through Accountability” workshop. This course emphasizes an immersive, hands-on approach, allowing participants to experience real-world scenarios. It is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in fostering accountability within your team
- 2:00 - 4:00pm
- Conference Hall - C141
05
Effective Communication for You and Your Team
Doreen King
Director of Training
Delve into strategic branding to understand how to align your brand with business objectives, differentiate from competitors, and build a strong, lasting connection with your target audience
- 4:15 - 5:15pm
- Conference Hall - C141
Day 2
- 11 November 2024
- Dallas, TX
06
Mastering Branding: Building a Strong Identity for Your Business
Crystal Lengua-Rowell
SMP - Ultralift
Master your branding with this course that is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in creating and maintaining a strong brand identity.
- 8:30 - 9:30pm
- Conference Hall - C141
07
TBA
Pool Nation
Scaling and Growth: Strategies for Business Expansion
Explore essential strategies for scaling your business effectively. Learn how to manage growth challenges, optimize operations, and leverage opportunities to expand your market presence
- 9:45 - 11:15am
- Conference Hall - C141
08
Crystal Lengua-Rowell
SMP - Ultralift
Marketing Strategies for Success
This workshop is ideal for business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketing professionals looking to develop a solid marketing foundation or refine their existing marketing strategies.
- 11:30 - 12:30pm
- Conference Hall - C141
09
Financials and Profitability: Maximizing Your Business Success
TBA
Pool Nation
The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in managing financials and driving profitability. From financial analysis to cost management.
- 1:30 - 2:30pm
- Conference Hall - C141
10
Financial Planning and Exit Strategy: Securing Your Business Future
TBA
Pool Nation
The course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the core principles, technical components, and best practices involved in effective financial planning and developing a robust exit strategy.
- 2:45 - 3:45pm
- Conference Hall - C141
Day 1
- 09 November 2024
- Dallas, TX
01
Rick Harvey
Director of Sales
Mastering Merchandising Strategies for Pool Retail Store Success
Learn how to build a Dynamic team, and thrive in complex environments. Learn to breakthroughs required to building a team culture.
- 9:00 - 10:00am
- Conference Hall C141
02
Effective Employee Onboarding
Alicia Stephens
Director of Training & Education
03
Coaching for Success: Personal Branding & Communication
Jamie Novak
Director of Marketing Pro-Brands
Day 2
- 10 November 2024
- Dallas, TX
04
Unlocking Growth: Advanced Marketing Techniques for Pool Retail
Allison Reynolds
The Get Smart Group
05
Customer Acquisition Mastery
Rick Harvey
Director of Sales
Conference Speakers
Meet Our Special Speakers & Instructors
Learn from the best! Our speakers and instructors include top business strategists and industry experts, ready to share valuable insights and practical skills.
Ted Lawrence
VP Sales Biolab
Ted Lawrence is a seasoned cross functioning Outdoor Living Executive who has served the swimming pool industry for over 30 years. With his experience and proven methods, Ted created the Retail Products Category for the world’s largest supplier of outdoor living products. Ted is a regular contributor to dozens of industry magazines, podcasts and is an award-winning international presenter at dozens of industry events.
Leanne De Jesus
Sr.Director HR
Throughout my career in Human Resources Management, I have been driven by company growth and workforce development, knowing that the human factor ignites organizational success. I am recognized as a motivating leader and creative thinker, able to design and implement trailblazing strategies to transform organizations.
I am a generalist and have working knowledge of all aspects of Human Resources including Affirmative Action, Diversity, OSHA, OFCCP, OD, EEOC, contract negotiations and contract interpretation and labor and employment law. I have extensive experience and success with Recruiting, Training, Workers Compensation, Unemployment, Benefits, Organized Labor, Arbitrations and Contract Negotiations.
Doreen King
Director of Training
A Human Resources professional focused on developing talent at every level of the organization. Directly responsible for defining, designing, developing and delivering learning and development offerings that support the business goals and objectives through various training programs, consultations, and development activities.
Strong operational background with over 32 years of experience in hospitality and retail management. Directly responsible for driving training and development, performance improvement and ensuring quality assurance standards. Skilled in developing and implementing high impact training programs with a solid track record of meeting and exceeding company objectives.
Alicia Stephenes
Director of Training & Education
Experienced Training Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the chemical industry. Skilled in Customer Service, Public Speaking, Training, Leadership, and Project Management. Strong education professional with a Bachelor of Science – BS focused in Biology/Biological Sciences, General from Millikin University.
Get In Touch
Feel Free to Contact Us
Have questions or need more information? Reach out to us and we’ll help you dive deeper into what Pool Nation Conference has to offer.
Event Venue
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas
650 S Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202
Contact Info
Text Only Number: 469-389-1025
