AJ Cada, 34

Store manager
Cada Pools and Spas
St. Charles, Illinois

Before entering the family business, AJ Cada’s early career took him through hospitality, where he worked at a boutique European-style hotel and even chauffeured celebrity guests. But in 2012, he stepped into the aquatic world, joining Cada Pools and Spas to build on a legacy that runs generations deep.

Since then, Cada has embraced a multidisciplinary approach, mastering everything from water chemistry and gas systems to plumbing, electrical work, construction and the rapidly evolving technology of automation. “The constant opportunity to become a true jack-of-all-trades keeps my work engaging and rewarding,” Cada says. He is energized by staying current with the latest scientific developments and innovations.

For Cada, the most meaningful wins come from the respect he’s earned as a leader and educator. His maintenance manager, Aria Novak, describes him as someone who makes “work feel more like learning rather than working.” A highlight for Novak and Cada was attending the 2025 BioGuard Leadership Convention, where industry peers sought Cada’s insights on running a successful operation. 

Balancing his professional life with family, Cada proudly welcomed his son in August 2024, naming him Albert Joseph Cada VI — the sixth generation to carry the family name. “To keep it simple, we are calling him Junior,” he says.

Cada looks forward to scaling Cada Pools and Spas with new locations and a major increase in service and maintenance capacity. “That is easier said than done; there is so much time, effort and dedication that goes into that to be successful,” he admits, yet his determination remains steadfast.

Outside work, Cada is a competitive athlete and DIY enthusiast. He plays men’s competitive slow pitch softball — where his team has won over a dozen championships — enjoys golf in the summer, bowling in the winter and unwinds with video games. He also takes pride in managing home repairs and commits to working out regularly.