THE ONLY BUSINESS FOCUSED CONFERENCE BUILT FOR THE POOL PROS
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.
Biolab
Pool Nation
VP SMP & Ultra Lift
CEO Gold Medal
About The Conference
Welcome to the Pool Nation Conference 2025
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)
Join the Conference
WHY ATTEND THE POOL NATION CONFERENCE?
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start scaling, this is where it happens.
Running a pool business shouldn’t feel like trial and error. You shouldn’t have to wonder if you’re charging enough. If your team is working efficiently. Or if you’ll ever be able to step away without things falling apart.
At the Pool Nation Conference 2025, we take the guesswork out of growth. This isn’t about adding more pools to your route. This is about building a business that works for you — profitable, scalable, and sustainable.
You’ll learn:
- How to price for profit without losing clients
- How to fix cash flow issues and create financial stability
- How to streamline operations and build scalable systems
- How to lead your team so you can focus on growing, not just working
This is the ONLY event in the pool industry dedicated to teaching you how to run your business like a CEO, not just a technician.
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
- 24 October 2025
- Las Vegas, NV
01
Turning Pools Into Profits: How to Build a Business, Not Just a Route
Edgar De Jesus
Pool Nation
Discover how to shift from technician to business owner and maximize every pool on your route.
- 9:00 - 10:30am
- Conference Hall - TBA
02
Turn Metrics Into Money: What Your Financials Are Telling You
Edgar De Jesus
Pool Nation
Stop guessing and start leading with data — unlock hidden profits through better decision making.
- 10:45 - 11:45am
- Conference Hall - TBA
03
Know Your Costs, Grow Your Profits: Business Math Made Simple for Pool Pros
Josh Sandler
CEO Gold Medal Pools
Learn the exact formulas and methods to price your services right and protect your bottom line.
- 1:45 - 2:45pm
- Conference Hall - TBA
04
Financial Planning and Exit Strategy: How to Build Value and Prepare for the Future
Shawn Copland
Sr. Director of HR
Create a business that runs without you and plan your exit on your terms, not out of necessity.
- 3:00 - 4:00pm
- Conference Hall - C141
05
Profit is Not Cash: Mastering Cash Flow to Stay in Control All Year
Josh Sandler
CEO Gold Medal Pools
Because profit on paper doesn’t pay the bills — cash does. Learn how to avoid cash crunches and build financial stability.
- 4:15 - 5:15pm
- Conference Hall - TBA
Day 2
- 26 October 2025
- Las Vegas, NV
01
Talent Life Cycle - Building Skills for Business Success
Doreen King
VP Business & Leadership Development - Pool Nation
Unlock the full potential of your team by mastering the Talent Life Cycle. Learn how to build skills at every stage to drive performance, foster growth, and create a thriving, people-powered organization.
- 9:00 - 10:30pm
- Conference Hall - TBA
02
Crystal Lengua-Rowell
VP SMP & Ultra Lift
Developing High Performing Teams
Success starts with your people. This course equips you with proven strategies to build, lead, and inspire high-performing teams. Learn how to foster trust, align goals, enhance collaboration, and create a culture of accountability that drives results and accelerates business growth.
- 10:45 - 11:45am
- Conference Hall - TBA
03
Doreen King
VP Business & Leadership Development - Pool Nation
The Power of Partnership: Cultivating True Collaboration in Your Team
Collaboration isn’t just about working together — it’s about working smarter together. In this course, discover how to break down silos, enhance communication, and build a culture where ideas flow freely and teams unite to solve problems, innovate, and achieve shared goals. Learn practical techniques to turn collaboration into a powerful driver of productivity and success.
- 1:45 - 3:15pm
- Conference Hall - TBA
04
Doreen King
VP Business & Leadership Development - Pool Nation
Dive Into Time Management Strategies
Take control of your day and maximize productivity. This course will introduce practical time management techniques to help you prioritize tasks, minimize distractions, and make every minute count. Learn how to plan effectively, set boundaries, and create habits that boost efficiency and reduce stress — so you can focus on what truly drives your business forward.
- 2:15 - 3:15pm
- Conference Hall - TBA
05
Doreen King
VP Business & Leadership Development - Pool Nation
Driving Results Through Accountability
Accountability is the engine of performance. This course will teach you how to set clear expectations, create ownership at every level, and foster a results-driven culture. Learn practical tools and leadership techniques to hold yourself and your team accountable — unlocking higher performance, improved consistency, and lasting business success.
- 3:30 - 5:00pm
- Conference Hall - TBA
Day 1
- 24 October 2025
- Las Vegas, NV
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
Day 2
- 24 October 2025
- Las Vegas, NV
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
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
03
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
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
Day 1
- 24 October 2025
- Las Vegas, NV
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 - C144
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 - C156
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 - C155
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 - C147 & C154
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.
TECHNICAL
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.
HANDS-ON
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!
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
