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Business - Retail - Hands-on

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

Doreen
King

Dr. Training

Leanne
De Jesus

Sr.Director HR

Ted
Lawrence

VP Sales Biolab

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds

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.

  1. Keynote Speeches: Hear from industry leaders who have transformed their businesses through innovative strategies.
  2. Business Workshops: Interactive sessions focusing on financial management, marketing, customer service, and operational efficiency.
  3. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

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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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Day 2

06

Alicia Stephens

Director of Training & Education Biolab

The Science of Algae: Identifying, Preventing, and Eliminating Pool Algae

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.

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.

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.

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.

Day 3

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.

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.

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.

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.

Day 1

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 2

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

07

Coming Soon

TBA

Coming Soon

Details Coming Soon

08

Coming Soon

TBA

Coming Soon

Details Coming Soon

Day 3

09

Bonus Class - Plumbing the Pad

David, Brad, Steve

AquaStar, Raypak & The Attendant

Details Coming Soon

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.

Day 1

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Day 2

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Day 1

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.

02

Effective Employee Onboarding

Alicia Stephens

Director of Training & Education

Coming Soon

03

Coaching for Success: Personal Branding & Communication

Jamie Novak

Director of Marketing Pro-Brands

Coming Soon

Day 2

04

Unlocking Growth: Advanced Marketing Techniques for Pool Retail

Allison Reynolds

The Get Smart Group

Coming Soon

05

Customer Acquisition Mastery

Rick Harvey

Director of Sales

Coming Soon

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

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Exhibiting or Sponsorship Opportunities

Pool Nation Awards

Hasa After Party

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