From Aqua : The Florida Swimming Pool Association Apprenticeship Program has been approved to participate in the State of Florida’s Apprenticeship System . This FSPA initiative aims to produce well-trained, highly skilled swimming pool and spa service technicians.
In 2017, Tim Coleman, managing partner of Augusta Aquatics in Fishersville, Va., created the Construction Technician Apprenticeship Program , which was approved by the state of Virginia. The FSPA program, however, marks the first time an association has created an apprenticeship program.
“The Florida Swimming Pool Association plays a pivotal role in securing Florida’s future,” says Florida Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran. “Quality teachers are the single most important factor contributing to student outcomes, and your (FSPA) association’s apprentice mentors will take on that crucial role.”
FSPA’s Swimming Pool and Spa Servicing Apprenticeship Program will identify members who own a swimming pool service company and match them with apprentices who are eager to enter the industry.
“This could not have happened without the hard work and dedication of FSPA’s Education Program Manager Mary Anderson,” says David Pruette, FSPA president. “Mary has a passion and commitment to filling workforce demands in our industry and our future swimming pool professionals are going to be better off because of her efforts.”
Florida’s registered apprenticeship programs enable employers to develop and apply industry standards to training programs for registered apprentices which can increase productivity and improve the quality of the workforce. Certifications earned through registered apprenticeship programs are recognized nationwide.
“FSPA’s Swimming Pool and Spa Servicing Apprenticeship Program will provide members of our association with a powerful means of engaging untapped talent,” says FSPA Executive Director Wendy Parker Barsell. “We need to replace the aging workforce in our industry and prepare the future generation of swimming pool and spa service technicians to ensure our field continues to thrive in Florida.”
The Florida Swimming Pool Association, based in Sarasota, Fla., connects consumers with member pool companies, provides government affairs representation on behalf of its members and provides comprehensive educational programs for industry professionals.
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