Pool and Hot Tub Alliance

So, she worked closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and volunteer leaders in a comprehensive planning session that focused on defining the organization’s new identity. Since then, the PHTA has experienced remarkable growth and success. Revenue has doubled, membership has increased by double digits, and several new programs have been launched. Advancing the Industry through Workforce Development One notable initiative is the workforce development program, aimed at promoting careers in the pool and spa industry. The initiative seeks to dispel the misconception that working in this field is merely about being a “pool boy,” highlighting instead the fun, lucrative, and career-oriented opportunities available. “We want to be the source of truth for the industry. So, we’re starting to gather more research and data for our members which we share every quarter,” Hickman says, explaining how this practice keeps PHTA members up to date on events happening in their industry. This research-based approach goes both ways as well, as the PHTA has launched accompanying business operations surveys to gather valuable data from members, providing insights into industry trends and benchmarks. This annual survey, complemented by quarterly five- minute surveys, generates “weather reports” that share key findings and predictions, helping members make informed decisions. Workforce development is a critical focus for the PHTA, so its efforts also extend beyond its members, recognizing a need to promote the benefits of having a career in the pool industry. To combat the competitive nature of the labor market, the alliance created a consumer-facing website targeting parents, job seekers, and high school counselors. This platform provides information about job opportunities, career types, and inspirational stories from industry professionals. Most notably, the platform also hosts an interactive job board, allowing PHTA members to post job ads for free and reach potential recruits, effectively bridging the gap between the industry and talented individuals considering a career in it. The alliance has even doubled down on those efforts with an accompanying apprenticeship program for 6 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06