Shop Talk: What Are You Looking Forward to Most at the PSP Expo?

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Shop Talk is a new feature in AQUA in which we ask a question to a few pros from all corners of the industry. Would you like to be featured in a future story? Email [email protected].

Today's question: What are you looking forward to most at the PSP Expo?

Jason Vaughan

St1116 Jason Vaughan 1016 Sm

National Pools of Roanoke, Roanoke, Va.
Chairman, APSP WAVE Young Professionals Group

At the PSP Expo, there is a lot for me to squeeze into a few days. Through the years I have had the pleasure of making great relationships with people across the country, and the PSP Expo is a great place to catch up and talk about pools until late in the night. I also enjoy the educational programs that are offered. I try to split my time at the Expo into learning in the classroom, learning what's new at the show and learning how others operate their businesses. Many people think these events are purely social and fun, like a vacation, but to me this is an opportunity to network and learn as much as I can to bring back to my company. This year I'm also looking forward to our APSP WAVE networking event on Nov. 2 from 4 to 6 p.m. The WAVE Network is a great way to meet fellow young professionals and talk about the things we have in common.

Jamie Gaumond

St1116 Jamie Gaumond 1016 Enews

ValleySpas, Sevierville, Tenn.

Since being honored as the 2015 Pleatco Perfect Pool Gal, alongside my friend and colleague John Oldfield, I have developed an even deeper love for this industry. Getting the chance to take the Genesis III Basic Construction Class is definitely one of the highlights to this years' Expo for me. I have been in the pool/spa industry since 2009 and have taken a ton of courses, but this is where my creativity can really shine! I'm also taking a few other classes, and am looking forward to soaking up as much as I can from those as well. No matter what classes you take, knowledge is key, and we should take in all the education that we can get.

But I also have to admit I'm also excited about being in New Orleans, soaking in all the culture and the FOOD!

RELATED: A Local's Guide to New Orleans

Dan Boelhauf

St1116 Dan Boelhauf 1016 Sm

Prestige Pools & Spas, Sunset Hills, Mo.

Learning. Working day in and day out in this industry helps you hone your craft. But if you want to be the best, you can't be satisfied with the status quo.

I crave pool and spa knowledge, but it can be hard to learn on your own, where internet sources and product reps always lead to a sales pitch.

On the other hand, listening to industry trade professionals share their knowledge is immensely satisfying. Not only do you get see things from a different perspective, but you're also likely hearing it from someone who is trying to help our industry evolve in a positive way. As this industry continues to build unified standardization across the country, I feel personally responsible to be a part of this movement on the ground level.

It's pretty neat to know that you can make a difference in our tight-knit industry. I feel proud that I get to do something fun for a living, while doing it the right way.

RELATED: 2016 PSP Expo Preview

Want more Shop Talk? Check out last month's column: How Do You Know a Customer Will Be a Problem?

 

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