From Reluctant Swimmer to Visionary Pool Designer: The Journey of Kevin Post
Kevin Post’s story underscores the transformative power of water. Growing up hesitant to dip his face into water, a move to Texas and a backyard pool prompted his mother to sign him up for swim lessons, igniting a lifelong passion. Post’s journey from a young swimmer to lifeguard, and now the CEO of an acclaimed aquatic design firm, showcases his commitment to revolutionizing aquatic experiences. His latest venture? A visionary idea for a floating public pool that not only offers recreational space but also cleans the city river water below it.
At the helm of Counsilman-Hunsaker, Post’s influence spans nationwide, intertwining design innovation with industry policy, while always cherishing his role as a mentor. Through projects like the +POOL—a floating, plus-shaped pool concept designed to clean waterways—Post demonstrates the potential of integrating environmental responsibility with recreational facilities. He envisions a future where space-starved urban areas can use their waterways for public swimming, blending utility with sustainability.
Dedication to Aquatic Safety and Training
Despite his executive role, Kevin Post fondly refers to himself as a “senior cabana boy,” highlighting his enduring passion for the field of lifeguarding and aquatic safety. His career evolution reflects a changing industry landscape, from the rise of cold plunges to the increasing need for water safety education. Post’s work doesn’t feel like work to him; it’s an ongoing conversation about pools, safety, and people who share his vision.
Beyond aesthetics and functionality, Post’s focus is on sustainability and safety. As president of the CMAHC, he works to ensure the continuous evolution of the Model Aquatic Health Code, advocating for more pool-service professionals to partake in regulatory conversations. He insists that inclusive dialogues yield smarter, more durable changes to pool industry standards, ultimately benefiting operators and users alike.
Mentorship and Industry Leadership
For Post, mentorship is key. Drawing lessons from mentors like Mick and Sue Nelson, he emphasizes the importance of purpose before design, urging pool professionals to lay out clear objectives before starting any project. He equates team success with his drum line days, where collective strength determined the outcome.
He encourages aspiring pool experts and operators to view expertise as a network, not an individual trait. Post reinforces the idea of going beyond minimum standards for service excellence and frequently advises on the critical role of water chemistry, with proper alkalinity management being a common point of emphasis.
Emphasizing Lifeguard Importance and Technology
A poignant topic for Post is the lifeguard shortage affecting pool operations and public safety training. He reframes the role of lifeguards as crucial first responders who must react instantly to emergencies. Embracing technology as a complementary tool, he highlights advancements like AI that enhance vigilance and response times, essential in saving lives.
Post’s approach to leadership combines listening with inquisitive engagement, challenging his mentees to explore solutions beyond traditional frameworks. This practice not only fosters innovative thinking but also ensures that seasoned professionals continue to learn from new perspectives.
Building the Future of Aquatic Spaces
While Post might dive into discussions from Marvel movies to pump rooms, his broader mission is cultivating leadership within his firm and across the pool industry. Through collaborations with industry centers on developing practical courses for small-business operators, he aims to bridge educational gaps and empower individuals with essential business skills.
As the concept of floating pools progresses, Post envisions a new era of urban waterway utilization, transforming them into accessible centers for recreation and socialization. His dedication resonates in every project, reinforcing his belief that within the pool industry, there’s a place for everyone willing to dive in.
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