There’s still time to recognize a standout pool professional through the 2026 Pentair Pool Pro Awards. Nominations are open through October 19, giving pool and spa professionals, companies, customers and others across the industry an opportunity to nominate the people making a difference in the trade.
Now in its third year, the annual awards program celebrates the “backyard legends” whose expertise, dedication and passion help keep the pool industry moving forward. Pool pros can nominate themselves or a deserving peer, with seven professionals ultimately recognized across five award categories.
The 2026 categories include:
- Premier Pool Pro Award: Two winners who exemplify excellence, reliability and dedication as industry professionals.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Two seasoned industry leaders whose long-standing contributions have made a lasting impact on the trade and their communities.
- NEW — Wave Maker Award: Recognizes an influential pool professional or industry leader whose voice is helping inspire what comes next.
- Unsung Hero Award: Honors a technician whose behind-the-scenes work helps keep pools swim-ready.
- Safety Advocate Award: Celebrates a pool professional who puts safety and protection first.
Nominees will be considered based on qualities including industry commitment and experience, pool and product knowledge, customer service, a safety-first approach, training and education, leadership, community engagement and a demonstrated record of hard work and industry growth.
After nominations close, validated nominees will move into public voting, scheduled for October 23 through November 1. Selected candidates will then advance to interviews with a selection committee that includes representatives from Pentair Pool, the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance and AQUA Magazine. Winners will be announced in January 2027 and formally recognized at The Pool & Spa Show in Atlantic City.
And the recognition extends beyond the award itself. According to Pentair, winners will receive travel accommodations and special recognition at the Atlantic City show, educational opportunities through Pentair University, GENESIS or PHTA, an exclusive interview with AQUA Magazine and a swag package valued at up to $3,000.
Know a backyard legend who deserves to be recognized? Don’t wait to submit a nomination. Nominations close October 19.
For more information and to nominate a pool professional, visit pentair.com/pool-pro-awards.
