PHTA: Building Service Teams That Stay: Workforce, Retention, and Employee Development in the Pool & Hot Tub Industry
Thursday, January 28, 2027: 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
CEU Credits:1.5
Speaker(s)
Description
Hiring and keeping qualified employees continues to be one of the most pressing challenges facing pool and hot tub service companies. This panel discussion will bring together members of the PHTA Service Council and experienced service leaders for a practical conversation on what it takes to build service teams that stay, grow, and perform. Panelists will discuss the realities of recruiting in today’s labor market, the importance of onboarding and early employee support, how to develop technicians into long-term professionals, and what company leaders can do to create a culture that improves retention. The session will also explore career pathways, mentorship, training systems, employee engagement, leadership development, and the role of industry education in strengthening the service workforce. Attendees will leave with practical ideas they can use to improve hiring practices, reduce turnover, build stronger teams, and create more attractive career opportunities within their companies.
Tracks:
Learning Objectives
1. Identify common causes of employee turnover in pool and hot tub service companies and strategies for improving retention.
2. Describe effective onboarding, mentoring, and training practices that support employee development during the first year of employment.
3. Explain how career pathways, skill development, and leadership opportunities can help service employees see a future in the industry.