Recognizing Excellence: The Pool Mentor of the Year Award
In an inspiring move within the pool industry, the Talking Pools Podcast is spotlighting the invaluable contributions of mentors with its inaugural Mentor of the Year Award. This accolade celebrates the dedicated professionals who elevate skills, foster growth, and guide others through unwavering commitment and expertise. These mentors are pivotal in cultivating a robust and knowledgeable workforce within the swimming pool and spa trades.
From more than 70 nominations, the top 10 finalists distinguish themselves as exemplars of mentorship. Each nominee, recognized by peers and mentees nationwide, demonstrates the essence of what mentoring in pool trades entails—ensuring the transmission of technical know-how and passion for many future generations. As the industry navigates technician shortages and generational shifts, these mentors serve as essential pillars of knowledge and leadership.
Exciting Recognition and Unique Celebrations
The Talking Pools Podcast plans an unconventional twist for honoring these mentors. In November 2025, host Rudy Stankowitz will conduct surprise visits to announce this year’s winner, presenting a custom championship belt as a token of appreciation. This memorable moment will be captured on camera and shared in a special video episode distributed via podcast and social media channels, bringing attention to the industry’s quiet champions.
Rudy Stankowitz highlights the essence of this award, noting, “There’s no grand stage—just a friendly knock and acknowledgement for someone who’s been pivotal in transforming lives. The impact of these mentors is immeasurable, as they guide others to thrive and succeed.”
Meet the Finalists: Leaders in Pool Craftsmanship
Finalists for the 2025 Mentor of the Year Award were carefully chosen based on their ability to inspire and impact those around them. Representing diverse regions and roles, these professionals are a testament to the empowering potential of mentorship within the pool and spa industry:
- Laci Davis – President & Co-Founder, The Grit Game, Hudson, FL
- Maddy Vandiver – Supervisor, The Pool Butler, Atlanta, GA
- Que Hales – Manager, Pool Chlor, Tucson, AZ
- Ron DeLoux – President, Big Blue Pool Services, La Mesa, CA
- Shannon D. Wilson – Service Manager, HHHunt, Glen Allen, VA
- Tim Bolden – President, The Pool Butler, Marietta, GA
- Rich Gallo – CEO, PureSwim, Los Angeles, CA
- John Poma – President, A+ Pool Service, Lakeland, FL
- Kevin Post – Chairman & CEO, Counsilman-Hunsaker, Evergreen, CO
- Greg Beard – President, Greg Beard’s Pool Service, Garden Grove, CA
Awarded a uniquely designed belt by Wildcat Belts, the grand prize not only celebrates exceptional mentorship but also solidifies the importance of mentorship in driving industry excellence.
Industry Support for Mentorship
The 2025 Mentor of the Year Award gains its strength from the significant support of leading figures in the swimming pool and spa industry, demonstrating that mentorship is crucial for enduring success and progress. Blueray XL has taken a lead as the Title Sponsor, emphasizing its dedication to nurturing talent within the industry.
Chris Galvin, CEO of Blueray XL, passionately endorses this initiative, “This isn’t just an accolade—it’s about honoring mentors who are relentless in their dedication to fostering professional growth. At Blueray XL, we recognize mentorship as the cornerstone of professional development—it’s about grit, perseverance, and empowerment.”
The Value of Mentorship Echoed Across the Industry
Gold Sponsor LaMotte Company echoes these sentiments, championing the beneficial effects of knowledge sharing within the pool and spa community. Michael P. Smith, Director of Marketing at LaMotte, stresses, “Mentorship plays a fundamental role in transmitting the expertise we’ve amassed over the decades. A strong mentorship network not only enhances standards but also ensures continuous innovation in our industry.”
Similarly, Gold Sponsor Revdup Apparel reinforces the notion that mentorship shapes the future of the pool sector. Don Douglas, Co-Founder of Revdup, emphasizes, “Effective mentorship fortifies the community and fuels advancements across safety, creativity, and operational excellence.”
Celebrating Industry Pioneers: The Talking Pools Podcast
The Talking Pools Podcast remains a powerful voice in pool industry dialogues, offering daily episodes that prioritize education and innovation. Its diverse hosts share a wealth of knowledge, making it an integral resource for professionals dedicated to excellence in pool maintenance, repair, and renovation.
Join the Talking Pools Podcast’s initiative by celebrating these remarkable mentors and engaging with the upcoming special video episode to appreciate the dedication that defines the pool industry. For additional insights, stay connected with PoolRepair.fyi—the ultimate directory for all pool-repair guidance and resources.
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