Water Safety Advocacy, Strategic Partnerships, and Industry Leadership

By Parker Conley • Published November 5, 2025

This week's stories highlight the pool industry's ongoing commitment to safety, strategic business partnerships to bolster market presence, and key leadership changes that could shape future industry standards.

Rowdy Gaines Receives Water Safety Hero Award

The Float Like A Duck initiative awarded Olympic swimmer Rowdy Gaines the Water Safety Hero Award for his dedication to promoting water safety. Known for his advocacy and educational efforts, Gaines' recognition underscores the critical role of public figures in championing safety measures in aquatic environments. The award highlights a growing trend where industry leaders leverage influential voices to drive awareness and education on water safety. For pool service businesses, this reinforces the importance of integrating safety education into their service offerings, potentially reducing liability and enhancing customer trust.

AquaCal AutoPilot and Devin Cahn Associates Strengthen Market Reach

AquaCal AutoPilot's partnership with Devin Cahn Associates aims to amplify sales efforts and enhance service offerings. The collaboration is set to expand AquaCal's footprint in the pool and spa industry, promising improved support and product accessibility for service professionals. This move reflects a broader industry trend of strategic partnerships to consolidate market positions and deliver superior customer service. Pool professionals stand to benefit from enhanced product availability and expertise, potentially leading to increased operational efficiencies and customer satisfaction.

Scott Frost Takes Helm as PHTA Chairman

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) has announced Scott Frost as the chairman for 2026, marking a pivotal leadership shift. Frost's appointment could signal new directions in industry standards and practices, affecting regulatory frameworks and business operations. For those in the pool service industry, this leadership change is noteworthy as it may influence the development of training programs, safety regulations, and advocacy efforts. Keeping abreast of the board's initiatives will be crucial for businesses aiming to align with emerging industry trends and compliance requirements.

The Role of Specialty Chemicals in Pool Maintenance

As pool service professionals increasingly recognize the value of specialty chemicals, these products are becoming essential tools for addressing specific water quality issues. Beyond basic sanitation, specialty chemicals offer targeted solutions that can enhance maintenance efficiency and customer satisfaction. This trend points to a growing demand for expertise in chemical applications, providing an opportunity for service companies to differentiate themselves through advanced technical knowledge. However, unless you're directly involved in chemical procurement or service delivery, this piece might not warrant a deep dive.

PHTA's New Online Learning Platform: The Center of Excellence

In a recent podcast, Dr. Adam Katchmarchi discussed the launch of the PHTA's Center of Excellence, an online platform offering on-demand courses for pool and spa professionals. This initiative reflects a broader move toward accessible, high-quality training that empowers professionals to enhance their skills and grow their businesses. The Center of Excellence promises to democratize education within the industry, providing valuable resources to those looking to stay ahead of industry standards and innovations. For industry players committed to continuous improvement, this is a development worth engaging with.