Meet the Faculty of the 2026 AOAP Director's School

The 2026 AOAP Director's School offers a premier aquatics training experience, built on the unparalleled expertise of its faculty. This multi-year program features highly experienced and recognized leaders from across the aquatics industry, ensuring attendees receive comprehensive, high-quality instruction. From risk management and legal considerations to inclusive practices and leadership development, the school's diverse faculty provides a wealth of real-world knowledge.

Here is a closer look at the accomplished professionals leading the way as part of the 2026 Director's School Faculty:

Tyler Anderson

With over 25 years in aquatics operations and education, Tyler Anderson is a Certified Pool Inspector and Designated Aquatic Professional. He is president of the International Lifeguard Critical Incident Response Alliance. Tyler also serves on American Airlines' Critical Incident & Emergency Response Teams, bringing valuable experience in crisis intervention and support from outside the aquatics field. He holds advanced certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and believes in expanding CISM and peer support programs for aquatics professionals, just as they exist for other first responders.

Kirsten Barnes

As the Assistant Director for the Association of Aquatic Professionals (AOAP), Kirsten Barnes has extensive experience in recreation, including overseeing aquatics programs, youth sports, and senior activities. She has managed lifeguards at numerous aquatic facilities and water parks and was a Recreation Director in the St. Louis area. A past president of the Missouri Parks & Recreation Association, Kirsten has presented at

nearly 100 educational sessions at national and regional conferences.

Kate Connell

A Certified Park and Recreation Professional and founder of Equitable Aquatics, Kate Connell is a strong advocate for equity and inclusion in recreational water use. Through Equitable Aquatics, she consults and trains on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

practices and protocols. As the Senior Manager of Sales & Strategic Partnerships at HydroApps, she also helps organizations leverage data-driven tools for operations and training.

Shawn DeRosa

Shawn DeRosa is an aquatics expert and legal professional with over 30 years of industry experience. A cum laude graduate of Suffolk University Law School and expert witness in aquatic cases, he specializes in aquatic safety, risk management, and legal considerations. Shawn has held key roles, including Director of Aquatics at a major NCAA Division I institution and Aquatics Coordinator for the Massachusetts State Park System, overseeing a large number of facilities and staff.

Tina Dittmar

An aquatics and management expert with over 20 years of experience, Tina Dittmar is an American Red Cross Instructor Trainer in multiple disciplines. In her role as Aquatics Supervisor for the City of Laguna Niguel, she oversees aquatic operations. Tina has also worked with the American Red Cross-National Headquarters on revising the Water Safety Program and Lifeguard Training and speaks internationally on topics including aquatic safety and employee motivation.

Cory Hilderbrand

Cory Hilderbrand brings more than 30 years of experience in the public and private aquatics sectors. As the Community & Library Services Manager for the City of Irvine, he oversees a large department that includes multiple aquatic centers and sports facilities. Cory is the current President of the AOAP, serving his second term in this role. He was also recognized in Aquatics International's Power issue in 2022.

Bob Kappel

Bob Kappel is a 30-year veteran of the aquatics industry and currently serves as Director of Sales-Recreational Water Products North America for ProMinent Fluid Controls, Inc. He has been involved with the AOAP since its inception and serves on multiple committees. Bob is an expert in water disinfection and has been instrumental in the development of modern secondary disinfection systems.

Dr. Regina Lewis

A veteran and esteemed academic, Dr. Regina Lewis holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership. She has extensive experience in leadership development, intentional communication, diversity, and inclusion, serving clients across various sectors. Dr. Lewis has presented her award-winning program, Cultural Excellence: Ideas and Discussions, and her publications have been featured in academic journals and textbooks.

Kevin Post

As the Chairman and CEO of Counsilman-Hunsaker, Kevin Post leads the firm's executive team with over 20 years of experience in the aquatic industry. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting sustainable business practices, new technologies, and risk management. Kevin is a contributing author to industry guides and serves on the Board of Directors for the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA).

Joey Rusnak

Joey Rusnak is the Recreation Programs Supervisor for the City of Barrie and is the owner of Lifeguard Authority. Joey has presented at multiple conferences, sharing his passion of aquatics and helping other professionals develop their skill sets. Joey is known for his dynamic, energizing sessions which typically focus on the practical, day-to-day experience in managing aquatics staff, onboarding, and enhancing the guest experience for municipal aquatic facilities.

Jim Wheeler

An internationally recognized expert and author on aquatic operations and risk management, Jim Wheeler has over 45 years of experience in the field. He is the General Manager for the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District and the owner of Total Aquatic Management, a consulting and training company. Jim has received multiple awards, including the Paragon Award for Aquatic Safety from the International Swimming Hall of Fame.

Lake White

Lake White has over 15 years of aquatics experience, covering roles from swim instructor and coach to facility director. He is currently the Director of Training – Starfish Aquatics Institute, with a vision to be the premier aquatic training and safety services organization worldwide. Lake specialized in providing worthwhile aquatic safety education.

Looking back at the stellar line-up of professionals leading the 2026 Director's School, it's clear that attendees are in for a top-tier educational experience. AOAP is dedicated to bringing together professionals from all aspects of aquatics to network, educate, and improve the industry. With such a diverse and experienced faculty covering a wide range of topics over three days, the association is excited to facilitate another great opportunity for learning, collaboration, and professional growth. We look forward to seeing the connections made and the knowledge shared as we continue to advance the aquatics profession together.

About the Author

Cory Hilderbrand is the Deputy Director of Community & Library Services with City of Irvine with more than 30 years of experience in the field. Cory has also been a member of the AOAP Board of Directors since 2019 including two terms as President. You can reach Cory at childerbrand@cityofirvine.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.