The start of a new year is always a good time to look at the big picture and figure out how you want to grow and improve over the next 12 months. If you’re a business owner or a manager, this is also the time to think about how to grow and improve your team and your company.
On a personal level, are you thinking about ways to prove you’re ready for a promotion? Are you wanting to learn new skills or switch into a different sector of the industry? Are you eager to take on new responsibilities?
At the company level, are you looking for new methods to recruit, retain and motivate staff? Are you wanting to set yourself apart from your competitors? Do you want to ensure your team is following industry standards and best practices?
If the answer to any or all of those questions is “yes,” then the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) has the resources you need to accomplish those goals — and more.
PHTA offers 10 professional certifications across construction, design, service, maintenance, operations and inspection. As the trade association representing the pool, spa and hot tub industry, PHTA has ensured that its certifications are nationally recognized and meet federal, state and local licensing requirements. In fact, in many states and jurisdictions, a PHTA certification is the only certification that fulfills the requirements for licensure.
Each certification provides specialized training that leads to higher-quality work and fewer costly errors.
When choosing a professional certification in the pool, spa and hot tub industry, it’s important to look for those built on recognized standards, supported by rigorous education, and trusted across the field. Certifications developed alongside an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited standards process ensure the content reflects nationally accepted best practices and safety guidance. Training offered by an International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET)-accredited provider adds another level of credibility, guaranteeing that the education meets international quality benchmarks and provides meaningful continuing education units.
PHTA certifications meet both of these criteria, combining industry standards development with highquality, accredited training. For professionals seeking a certification that carries weight with employers, regulators and customers, choosing a program with this level of transparency, rigor and recognition provides a strong foundation for advancing skills and demonstrating expertise.
PATHWAYS TO PROGRESS
Most of these 10 certifications fall into two distinct pathways that allow professionals to progress from entry-level to master of their craft.
The PHTA Certified Pool Builder & Design Professional Pathway is for pool builders and designers looking to expand their skills, boost their credibility, and reach the highest echelon of the profession. This pathway includes:
• Certified Builder Professional (CBP)
• Certified Advanced Builder Professional (ACBP)
• Certified Expert Pool Builder & Design Professional (ECBP)
• Certified Master Pool Builder & Design Professional (MCBP)
The PHTA Certified Pool Service Professional Pathway is for service and maintenance professionals committed to learning new skills and building upon their existing knowledge base to achieve new levels of success. This pathway includes:
- Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO)
- Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Specialist (CMS)
- Certified Pool & Spa Service Technician (CST)
- Certified Pool & Spa Service Professional (CSP)
In addition to these pathways, PHTA offers two other certifications:
- Certified Pool & Spa Inspector (CPI)
- Certified Hot Tub Technician (CHTT)
GOOD FOR EMPLOYEES
If you’re looking for a new role in the new year, keep in mind that certified professionals often stand out in the hiring process. If you already hold a certification, highlight it on your resume and in your cover letter. If you aren’t certified yet, most PHTA certifications require the completion of one course and successfully passing a certification exam, which can be done in less than a week in many cases.
Holding a professional certification shows potential employers that you are committed to the industry, up to date on the latest industry trends and best practices, and an eager learner. A certification is a tangible way to prove you have both the soft skills and technical skills needed to succeed in your next role.
Certified professionals have more mobility within the industry, are more competitive for promotions, and qualify for roles with higher salaries and greater responsibility, such as management.
PHTA’s certification pathways also give individuals a clear career progression. From the first level of certification that requires no previous work experience to the highest level that demands verification of skills and aptitude, anyone in the industry can clearly see where they are headed and what their career goals can be.
GOOD FOR EMPLOYERS
Supporting staff who are pursuing a certification is one way to increase employee morale and build loyalty. Whether the company pays for the certification course and exam, or allows time off to attend classes, or simply encourages staff to earn a certification, that all shows the company’s dedication to the success of each individual employee. When employers show that they believe in their staff and support their career progression, those staff members are more likely to stay with that company.
The pool, spa and hot tub industry is highly regulated. As the leading pool, spa and hot tub industry organization recognized by ANSI, PHTA ensures that its professional certifications are based on current codes and standards. Having certified professionals on staff signals to clients that the company is committed to meeting those standards. Employing certified professionals reduces liability for the company and supports safer operations for both staff and clients.
GOOD FOR BUSINESS
Having PHTA-certified staff means your business is equipped to deliver consistently high-quality service while building trust and credibility with your customers. Certification differentiates your company from competitors. It’s an important selling point in marketing and proposals.
Certifications also signal value, allowing you to charge more for your services and justify those higher rates with higher quality results.
Because recertification requires proof of continuing education every three years, having certified staff also shows that your company is following current best practices. This gives clients the confidence that their technician or builder is knowledgeable, safe and reliable.
Pool, spa and hot tub owners want peace of mind. Having certified professionals on staff positions your business as a trusted leader in the industry through proven expertise.
GET CERTIFIED
PHTA-certified professionals join a respected community with expanded access to events, education and connections with industry leaders. Don't wait — visit phta.org/certification to take the next step in your career.
This article first appeared in the January 2026 issue of AQUA Magazine — the top resource for retailers, builders and service pros in the pool and spa industry. Subscriptions to the print magazine are free to all industry professionals. Click here to subscribe.
