Mary Stefanski, 33
Regina Pools & Spas,
Product consultant
Timonium, Maryland
When asked how long she has been at Regina Pools & Spas in Timonium, Maryland, Mary Stefanski, product consultant, likes to counter by asking, “Does the womb count?”
Her father founded the company, which means she’s worked nearly every job in the business.
“I started by stocking shelves and sweeping floors and moved up to water testing and interacting with clients,” she says. “I have opened and closed pools, worked on hot tubs, installed saunas and run our service department for a year. I have worked in administrative roles, input data into accounting software and now I am in sales. The only thing I don’t do is sign the paychecks at this point.”
Stefanski’s favorite part about working in the hot tub industry is that, well — it’s fun.
“If it’s not fun, then you’re doing something wrong,” she says.
She also believes the industry can be part of improving lives.
“These are wellness products that help us live better, build community and foster relationships,” she says. “Hot tubs are a way to release tension and feel better. People are always looking for ways to help their mental and physical well-being, and a hot tub is perfect for both.”
The only thing she would change about the industry is the mentality that hot tubs are still luxury items.
“It may have been 20 or 30 years ago but not today,” she says. “It is an appliance that everyone should have and use.”
Stefanski is excited to see the next generation stepping up and continuing in the hot tub industry, especially the women taking on leadership roles.
“As a woman [in this industry], I want to be remembered as someone who was easy to talk to, fair and took care of her team members,” she says.
As for the future? Stefanski wants to take over the business and see her parents happily retire after 50 years.
“I want to carry on the legacy my father, mother and aunt have created here,” she says. “I want the business to thrive and be able to take care of my team members who have their own families to provide for.”