The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) has announced Joseph M. Vassallo, president of Paragon Pools, NV, is the trade association’s 2012 Certified Building Professional (CBP) of the Year. The CBP of the Year Award is given annually to one CBP who has advanced the pool building profession through outstanding achievements and dedication to the industry.
The peer-nominated award was presented to Vassallo during the APSP International Awards of Excellence program at Generations Hall in New Orleans, on Monday, November 5. Vassallo has served on chapter and regional APSP boards, on the APSP Builders Council for 6 years, and is currently serving on the APSP Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
In addition to his service with APSP, Vassallo has worked with legislators on the state and national level to develop positive working relationships between building and code officials and the pool and spa industry.
“APSP is very pleased to recognize Joe with the 2012 CBP of the Year Award,” said Bill Weber, APSP President and CEO. “Joe has elevated the presentation of the pool and spa ownership experience in such a positive way that it heightens awareness of the Certified Building Professional designation. He is an example for the rest of the industry for, among other things, enhancing consumer awareness of and appreciation for professionalism within our industry.”
The APSP CBP designation is earned through a standardized written examination, which measures knowledge of residential and commercial pool and spa construction. Applicants for the designation must meet industry experience requirements and, once the designation is earned, ongoing continuing education is required to maintain the certification. The program emphasizes a commitment to ethical standards and a commitment to the highest standards of construction and workmanship through adherence to national pool and spa standards.
“Joe has worked tirelessly to advance the pool building profession through development of world class pool and spa education, APSP Certification, and licensing,” said John C. Romano, CBP, CSP Certified Service Professional, and member of the APSP Builders Council. “His commitment to the industry, as well as his involvement with his community through water safety and other charitable activities, exemplifies his dedication to his customers and his community.”
Past winners of the CBP of the Year Award include Jeff Mitchell, CBP, Dynasty Pools; Tommy Johnson, CBP, CSP, Johnson Pools & Spas; Lew Akins, CBP, Ocean Quest Pools by Lew Akins; John C. Romano, CBP, CSP, All American Custom Pools & Spas; and Al Rizzo, CBP, CSP, Rizzo Pool & Spa. For more information about the CBP program, visit APSP.org/cbpoftheyear or call 703.838.0083 ext. 274.
