“The pool and hot tub industry is evolving with the introduction of new technologies and innovations, while increased competition for qualified talent threatens operations and growth,” says Sabeena Hickman, president and CEO of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. “Professional development and continuing education are the only way forward to thrive in this highly competitive environment.”
Over 250 (and growing) PHTA and International Hot Tub Association members are designated Certified Hot Tub Technicians, achieving master-level skills in hot tub water chemistry, electrical systems, circulation, filtration and basic repair to interior surfaces.
To support pros, PHTA and IHTA launched the Center of Excellence, an online hub providing industry-driven education to expand skills, stay compliant and strengthen recruitment and retention.
Excellence drives growth
PHTA and IHTA are focused on raising standards and driving professionalism in the industry. By providing professionals with on-demand learning specific to the hot tub sector, the Center of Excellence encourages people to expand their knowledge and skills while raising the bar on industry standards. And we know that increased learning leads to increased revenue.
Already the industry’s most trusted source for education and professional growth, PHTA’s Center of Excellence offers six pathways across three levels. Focus areas include:
- Building and engineering
- Service and maintenance
- Retail and distribution
- Facilities management and operations
Tracks on manufacturing and business education are planned for 2026.
Designed by top industry experts and launching with more than 100 one-to-two-hour courses, the curriculum provides world-class training and technical instruction to support every stage of a pool and hot tub professional’s career.
With a focus on accessibility, affordability and real-world application, the Center of Excellence is paving the way for the next generation of skilled professionals.
Adapting to new technologies and standards
In the pool and hot tub industry, adherence to changing regulations and safety standards is not only critical, but mandatory. Meanwhile, as the industry experiences a technological renaissance, leveling up your know-how with continuing education builds the knowledge base needed to implement efficiencies, promote sustainability and ensure safety.
The Center of Excellence’s curriculum makes it easy to learn about up-to-date, research-backed training on the application of the latest innovations, safety codes and standards.
Attracting and retaining top talent
Recruiting and retaining skilled employees was considered among the top challenges reported by builders, service companies and retailers, according to PHTA’s 2024 business operations survey report. With employees prioritizing continuous learning as a key to personal career growth and long-term job satisfaction, human resources experts agree that continuing education provides employers with a tool to help solve recruitment and retention challenges when workforce shortages are at odds with the demand for talent and rising project demands.
Encouraging employees to expand their skill sets using continuing education signals your company is committed to helping them build their careers. This goes a long way in building loyalty while ensuring each member is capable and ready to meet new opportunities and demands.
Added benefits of maintaining a highly trained and proficient team include enhanced productivity, greater efficiency, reduced turnover and higher job satisfaction — all while instilling greater confidence and empowerment that leads to higher service quality and stronger client relationships.
PHTA makes it easy
PHTA’s Center of Excellence provides pool, spa and hot tub professionals with on-demand access to education and expert insight needed to grow, perform, and lead with confidence.
For builders, service companies, retailers, new entrants to the field, industry veterans and everyone in between, the Center of Excellence provides an ideal solution for onboarding, elevating staff capabilities and establishing consistent adherence to the highest industry standards and protocols.
With expert-led courses that offer a flexible, self-paced structure, users can easily customize their learning pathway by sector while gaining valuable technical and business knowledge.
Built for the real world, where learning needs to happen every day, not just once a year, the Center of Excellence is a win-win-win for businesses, professionals and the industry.
By providing easy access to train teams, grow careers and improve business operations, we are contributing to building an industry that prioritizes quality, professionalism and success for all.