The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub and spa industry, celebrates a significant milestone in its groundbreaking workforce development program, the Pool Professionals Pipeline. The program has successfully addressed the industry’s need for skilled workers, achieving impressive results within its first year.
Over 200,000 Potential Jobseekers Engaged
The Pipeline, along with its external industry awareness and jobseeker education campaign, Work In Aquatics, has driven more than 200,000 potential jobseekers to its website and job board, generated 27 million impressions across digital advertising platforms, and added nearly 6,000 applicants to the pipeline.
“The success and metrics during the first year underscore the significant needs of the industry and the rapid impact we can have to drive interest and help members fill critical positions,” says Sabeena Hickman, CAE, president and CEO of PHTA. “We’ve nurtured a strong foundation for the next generation of talent. Now, PHTA is poised to further expand its reach and impact, and we invite industry partners to help us shape the future.”
Building the Next Generation
Workforce development is a multi-faceted effort. PHTA has developed two Registered Apprenticeship Programs with the Department of Labor to raise the skill level of the industry’s workforce. PHTA’s apprenticeship programs provide crucial support to employers to consistently train new employees through virtual education, complemented by a highly valued mentor program. The programs offer service technician and pool installer apprenticeships and have seen significant growth, with the first quarter of 2024 surpassing all of 2023’s enrollment numbers.
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Growth
PHTA is dedicated to attracting top talent and further elevating the aquatics profession. Through continued collaboration with industry stakeholders and a strategic mix of innovative marketing strategies, the association aims to significantly expand its outreach efforts.
Members, partners, and others interested in shaping the future of the aquatics industry and getting involved in the PHTA Pool Professionals Pipeline can contact Seth Ewing, PHTA senior director of Member Programs & Services, at [email protected].
