Success in the swimming pool industry often comes down to two things: a willingness to learn and a commitment to excellence. Few exemplify this better than Keith Smith, this year’s Pentair Pool Pro Award winner and head of renovations at Heritage Pools of Charleston, SC. His story is not just one of career growth, but of passion, persistence, and the transformative power of education.
Long Before the Pentair Pool Pro Award, Was a Humble Beginning
Before stepping into the pool industry, Smith was working as a line cook in a restaurant, making ends meet in an oversaturated market. While he enjoyed the work, it wasn’t financially sustainable, nor did it offer much room for growth. When his brother-in-law, a service tech at Heritage Pools, encouraged him to consider a career in pool construction, Smith was intrigued. The opportunity to work outdoors, take on new challenges, and build something meaningful appealed to him.
He started with a trial run, working two days with the crew on a brand-new pool build. With no experience and wearing kitchen shoes, he was thrown into the deep end—digging trenches, getting covered in mud, and working harder than ever. But something clicked.
“I made up my mind after that first day of work,” Smith recalls. “After a long, hard day and seeing how much I had accomplished with this team, I knew I wanted to stick with it.”
Climbing the Ladder Through Dedication
After transitioning to a full-time role, Smith quickly expanded his skill set. He worked in pool construction, maintenance, and service, finding that his meticulous attention to detail made him particularly suited for pool care and chemistry management.
His natural curiosity led him to dive deeper into the renovations side of the business. Starting with smaller projects, such as liner replacements and tile work, he eventually moved on to full-scale pool transformations—replacing decks, reshaping pools, and upgrading entire systems.
“There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking a pool that’s been in the ground for 30 or 40 years and making it look brand new,” he says. “It’s like bringing something back to life.”
Mentorship and the Power of Leadership
A key figure in Smith’s journey has been Michael Gesmond, the owner of Heritage Pools. Smith first met Gesmond when they were neighbors, long before he joined the company. He remembers seeing Gesmond working out of his Honda Civic, taking on liner replacements before growing Heritage Pools into the respected business it is today.
“I’ve learned a lot from him—his drive, his commitment to excellence, and his ability to roll up his sleeves and do whatever it takes to get the job done,” Smith says.
Gesmond saw potential in Smith early on and actively encouraged his growth. He provided new opportunities, pushed him out of his comfort zone, and instilled confidence in his decision-making.
“He told me, ‘You have anything at your disposal to advance your career. Book the classes, get the certifications—just go do it.’ That kind of support is invaluable.”
The Role of Education in Elevating the Industry
One of the biggest lessons Smith has learned is the importance of continuous education. While hands-on experience has been a huge part of his development, formal training has elevated his expertise, particularly in electrical work, hydraulics, and safety compliance.
“A lot of older pools have single drains that aren’t code-compliant,” Smith explains. “Education allows me to confidently explain to homeowners why they need to upgrade their system—not to nickel and dime them, but to make their pool safer.”
Through manufacturer training, trade shows, and industry events, Smith has gained insights that allow him to better serve his customers. More importantly, it’s given him the knowledge to mentor his own team, ensuring that the next generation of pool professionals meets the highest standards.
Leading a Team with Commitment and Purpose
As head of renovations at Heritage Pools, Smith doesn’t just oversee projects—he actively supports his team, whether it’s digging trenches, troubleshooting pumps, or solving on-site challenges.
“I’m not here to babysit anyone,” he says. “I work with professionals. But I am here to support them, to problem-solve when things don’t go as planned, and to ensure that every job is done right.”
He leads by example, making sure that customer service, safety, and craftsmanship remain the top priorities. His approach is simple: he never asks his team to do anything he wouldn’t do himself.
The Value of Strong Industry Partnerships
Smith credits much of his professional growth to Pentair’s commitment to its dealers. Over the years, Pentair representatives have provided hands-on training, on-site troubleshooting, and product knowledge that have made a tangible impact on his projects.
“My reps have been phenomenal resources. Any time I’ve needed help diagnosing an issue or understanding a product, they’ve been there,” Smith says.
One product that’s been a game changer for his renovation projects is the IntelliFlo3 VSF pump.
“It can be retrofitted to inch-and-a-half plumbing and has built-in automation capabilities,” Smith explains. “That means customers get a modern, energy-efficient upgrade without having to overhaul their entire system.”
Trends in Pool Renovation and Future Outlook
Smith has witnessed shifts in the pool industry over the years, with more homeowners embracing automation and energy-efficient upgrades. Retrofitting older pools with smart technology, LED lighting, and variable-speed pumps is becoming increasingly common, as customers recognize the long-term value.
“Five years ago, people weren’t as receptive to automation. Now, with products like the IntelliFlo3, they see the convenience and energy savings,” Smith notes.
Beyond technology, he also sees a growing emphasis on pool safety upgrades, as more homeowners recognize the importance of dual drains, VGB-compliant systems, and advanced circulation solutions.
Advice for the Next Generation of Pool Professionals
Give it time – “Stick with it for a few weeks, learn the ropes, and see if you enjoy the work.” Stay hungry – “Push yourself to grow. If you’re in maintenance, ask to shadow a service tech. If you’re in service, get hands-on experience in renovations.” Take every opportunity to learn – “Attend training sessions, take manufacturer courses, and keep your certifications up to date.” Embrace challenges – “Not every day is easy, but the work is rewarding. You’re transforming backyards and creating something people will enjoy for years.”
Pentair Pool Pro Award, A Well-Deserved Honor
Smith’s journey from line cook to Pentair Pool Pro Award winner is a testament to hard work, passion, and the power of ongoing education. His story serves as an inspiration for pool professionals at every stage of their career—reminding them that mentorship, training, and a commitment to excellence can open doors to incredible opportunities.
“At the end of the day, I just love what I do,” Smith says. “I love taking something old and making it new again. And I love knowing that with every renovation, we’re delivering the best possible experience for our customers.”
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