Building the Future of Aquatic Maintenance: Why Aquatic Technician School Continues to Grow

Over breakfast at a conference in 2021, Dewey Case of the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code and Bob Kappel of ProMinent Fluid Controls found themselves discussing the challenge of finding skilled aquatic technicians. They were hearing from professionals in the field that there was a lack of hands-on experience in new technicians, and there were not a lot of opportunities for step-by-step instruction in the broader aquatic community. Over the next two years, Association of Aquatic Professionals staff and volunteers embarked on a journey to understand where support was needed and to fill that gap, and the Aquatic Technician School launched as part of the 2024 Annual Conference and Exposition with just 16 attendees. 

Since that inaugural class in 2024, the committee overseeing the in-depth, two-day training has reviewed content annually, listened to feedback, and worked with speakers and industry experts to allow the program to continue to evolve to meet needs of technicians in the field. With topics designed to give a broad view of what it takes to service, diagnose, repair and maintain the critical systems and changing technologies of today’s aquatic facilities and a renewed focus on hands-on activities, the 2027 event, hosted as part of the International Aquatics and Water Safety Conference in Reno, Nevada on February 8 and 9, 2027 is sure to be the best yet. 

Practical Skills for Real-World Applications

Whether you're just beginning your career in aquatic maintenance or you're an experienced operator looking to expand your technical knowledge, Aquatic Technician School is designed to provide practical skills you can immediately put to work. Rather than focusing solely on theory, the program emphasizes the "how" behind maintaining today's increasingly complex aquatic facilities. Participants learn directly from industry experts who spend every day designing, troubleshooting, manufacturing, and servicing the equipment they teach.

The 2027 curriculum reflects the industry's evolving needs while reinforcing the core maintenance principles every technician should master. Sessions will explore everything from diagnostic tools and heater maintenance to UV systems, chemical feed equipment, automation, corrosion, seasonal maintenance, pool finishes, and PVC solvent welding. Each topic has been selected to help technicians better understand the systems they work with every day while improving their ability to diagnose problems before they become costly repairs.

Hands-On Learning 

One of the program's greatest strengths is its commitment to hands-on learning. Attendees won't simply watch presentations: they'll have opportunities to work with equipment, practice techniques, ask questions, and engage directly with manufacturers and subject matter experts. This interactive format helps bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application, building confidence that participants can carry back to their own facilities.

Education, Collaboration and Networking

Another valuable aspect of Aquatic Technician School is the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges. Because Aquatic Technicians often work independently, it can be difficult to compare experiences or learn how others have solved common problems. Throughout the two-day program, participants have opportunities to share ideas during informal conversations, structured discussions, and the closing roundtable, creating a collaborative learning environment that extends well beyond the classroom.

The experience also extends beyond Technician School itself. Registration includes access to the International Aquatics and Water Safety Conference exhibit hall, where attendees can meet manufacturers, explore new technologies, and see the latest innovations shaping aquatic facility operations. Those conversations often become just as valuable as the formal sessions, providing technicians with direct access to the companies behind the products they use every day.

Register Now for the 2027 Aquatic Technician School

As aquatic facilities continue to adopt more sophisticated equipment and automation, the need for knowledgeable technicians has never been greater. Investing in technical education not only improves equipment performance and operational efficiency but also helps protect facilities, budgets, and ultimately the guests who rely on safe, well-maintained aquatic environments.

AOAP continues to prepare for additional growth in the program. With new content, hands-on opportunities, round table discussions, and access to the exhibit hall, the value to new technicians or to professionals new to managing aquatic technicians is substantial. 

Aquatic Technician school is expected to sell out early, so don’t hesitate to get on board! Learn more about Aquatic Technician School or register here!

About the Author

Kirsten Barnes is the Assistant Director of the Association of Aquatic Professionals and a leader with over 25 years of experience in the field. You can connect with Kirsten at kirsten@aquaticpros.org.

Are you interested in submitting a blog post? Reach out to Kirsten at kirsten@aquaticpros.org to share your idea and learn more about the AOAP Blog.