In preparation, Fluidra, Hayward and Pentair automation controls were installed on the walls of the Folsom Eagles lodge. A woman’s voice announced the training was about to begin after a short time. A DPD tab was dropped when the snap-to attention button was pressed. The hands-on wiring automation training began here. This quickly attracted the attention of manufacturing giants. Why was this event so important to the “Big 3?” This initiative was long overdue in the field of continuing education. It addressed a vastly underserved market.
Create a program geared towards women
Only 9% of pool techs in the United States, a largely male-dominated industry ( Zippia.com September 2022) are women. women pool technicians are the minority in this industry. We are not exempt from the culturally-expected duties of women, including juggling family, children and spouses.
The traditional methods of education are made more difficult by these added responsibilities and a society that still views women as less capable in skilled trades. Unfortunately, many women who work in co-ed settings feel intimidated by male colleagues. A few wet tablets are enough to make a bucket of water smell at a meeting.
Training Group for Pool Girls Pro Industry
What is the solution? The PGP (Pool Girl Pro), Industry Training Group, meets twice a year for comprehensive and in-depth master programs that are designed to improve the technical knowledge of women working in the pool industry. Janet Reed, and I founded PGP to address these issues. Everyone, regardless of gender should not be ridiculed for asking basic questions about technical installation, operation and troubleshooting. Janet and myself will focus primarily on hands-on training to meet the needs of those who prefer an all-female class.
PGP Industry Group held its first all-women, in-person training, in January 2020, at Leisure Supply Sacramento. It was just before the pandemic ravaged the world! Fluidra led a training session for eight women from the Great Sacramento Area and Central California on variable speed pumps and automation controls. We noticed that many men were embracing the program developed by two women during this first inaugural training session. We welcomed them and excluded was not an issue. Many people responded enthusiastically, supporting a group where their daughters and wives could attend without fear of harassment.
Reaching the Women of the Industry
PGP had the good fortune to continue providing in-person training, webinars, and hands-on experience during the pandemic. We limited the number of seats during this time period to comply with local regulations on social distance, but we provided live streaming for those who couldn’t attend the events in person. Our group was able to reach women from all over the country through streaming.
I love that there is the option of attending a virtual training for women and gaining knowledge from other women working in our industry. “It’s an amazing experience to be around other confident, determined women!” – Lindsay Brown, Oasis Pool Management in Florida.
In the last couple of years PGP events have evolved to include mentoring and networking. After each training session, the ladies would chat with each other and then go to dinner together. We were able to discuss business, family and life, as well as the vendor support system, with one another. The infield assistance system that our group members have today was born out of this.
PGP can now offer training taught by women after three years. Online and in person, our attendees learn the basics of automation control subpanel and wiring. Our comprehensive program leaves them eager to use their new skills on the job.
The [wiring automation] course was well-prepared and enjoyable. The class was welcoming to all and low-pressure. This factor made me feel comfortable. It was a very cohesive environment where everyone felt welcome to ask questions and expand their knowledge.
Pool Girl Pro Industry Training Group has begun the process to become a non-profit. We will be able to offer more quality education opportunities, a greater number of training sites, and support women’s advancement in the industry with the 501(c3) status. We want to offer quality education, increase the number of training centers, and help women advance in the industry.
Timber Vincent, of Blue Dolphin Pool and Spa, Danville, CA, said, “In a sea full of men, Pool Girl Pro represents a group of women who are dedicated to the industry of swimming pools and spas and to each other.” We support each other; questions are asked without fear of judgement; we encourage one another to do our best and offer hands-on training. Together, we want to eliminate gender-specificity in the pool industry. These women are the modern Rosie the Rippers of the pool industry .”
Join the PGP Training Group on Facebook to find out about training, educational posts and ask questions. To meet women from around the world who can provide support and advice. If you would like to join the group or get involved, you can find them on Facebook or email [email protected]
The post Pool Girl Professional To The Rescue: Women-Led Networking & Training first appeared on PoolMagazine.com. Get the Latest Pool News.
